Help Send Skylar To Zambia!

ABOUT ME:

My name is Skylar Jackenthal and I am an 18 year old from Park City, Utah. I am a recent high school graduate who will be attending Babson College, in Massachusetts. Before starting college I will be taking a gap semester, and I truly believe that there is no better way to spend this time than helping others. This has been a life long dream of mine and I have spent the past 5 months working to save for this trip, but as you can imagine, traveling to Africa is not cheap. Giving love is free, but getting there isn't. I am fortunate enough to have this time to dedicate to others, now I need your help to make it happen!

WHAT I WANT TO DO AND HOW I WILL DO IT:

Many of my friends and family know that I have always been passionate about volunteering with kids. This is why I want to spend 4 weeks volunteering and teaching in Zambia with the local children. As a volunteer I will work within pre-schools, nursery schools and day care centers with children aged from 2-7 years old.

"With a significant portion of children living under the poverty line in Zambia, many of these vulnerable children suffer from poor hygiene, inadequate education, insufficient food and little healthcare. Individualized attention and a focus on early development and education are crucial to breaking the cycle of poverty in Zambia."-IVHQ

On October 21st I will begin this 4 week non-paid volunteering experience with International Volunteer Head Quarters (IVHQ). In addition to teaching, I will be caring for the children, designing fun activities, and helping to cook meals and feed them. However, the most important thing I will be doing is spending everyday making them feel loved and happy.

WHY YOU SHOULD HELP ME:

Previously, I have done multiple volunteer trips to the Hopi Native American Reservation where I was able to spend multiple days in the classroom working with the students. This was an amazing experience for me both times, however, I was never there long enough to create lasting connections with the kids. During the short time I spent with children I was already starting to see them become more confident, which is why it was so difficult to leave them. By donating towards my journey you will not only be helping my dream become a reality but you will be making a difference in the lives of every child I meet while in Zambia.

WHAT WILL YOUR DONATION DO:

Your donation, no matter how big or small will help make this trip possible. The money I raise will go towards airfare and transportation, program fee's, visas, travel insurance and vaccinations. Any extra money will go towards purchasing supplies to bring to the students and assisting with any other local projects. (If you cannot donate money I will gladly accept any and all physical donations such as clothes, school supplies, books, etc. to bring with me to Zambia).

Thank you for taking the time to view my fundraising page! I hope you will consider donating :)