Lav 2 Africa

Mark your calendars, friends. On March 25^th I’ll board a plane to Johannesburg, South Africa, where I’ll spend a month volunteering at the Sparrow Village orphanage and hospice for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Three years ago I launched LavbugWalks, and together we raised $1100 for orphans in Ethiopia, AIDS Walk DC, and the Whitman-Walker Health Clinic in Washington D.C..

That was only the beginning. I’ve been wondering what more I could do to truly fulfill my purpose. Yes, I’m a daughter, a friend, an employee, a struggling comic, and the list goes on. But there has to be more purpose to my life. That’s when I decided I needed to step outside my comfort zone and challenge myself beyond fundraising.

After months of researching, applying, and emailing, I found Sparrow. There are approximately 175 children at Sparrow, with ages ranging from newborn to 18. I’ll spend my time working with all age groups—with different activities for each. My main focus will include teaching yoga and creative writing.

I’m financing this trip by using my savings. I’m reaching out to you with the goals of raising funds so I can take two suitcases full of goodies for the kids. Imagine the smiles on their faces if I can present them with toys, coloring books, movies, and so much more. I can't save the world; however, if I can make a child smile, teach a teen helpful yoga moves, or channel a young boy's writing skills -- I'll consider this trip a great success.

Check out my site to learn more about my mission: Lav2Africa. You should also check out Sparrow!

Warm hugs,

Lavina