Due to visa issues, I had to delay my trip to Togo for a few weeks. Although this initial setback caused a lot of stress and anxiety - (I was really looking forward to starting on the field!) - it actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The additional time enabled us to enhance our outreach activities and prepare even more comprehensively for our mission. You never truly understand the importance of last-minute preparations until you are in them!
One of our proudest achievements during this time was organizing our campaign for soccer ball donations. I wanted to bring something with me that has always brought positivity into my life- soccer fosters wonderful opportunities to play and build community.
The drive began modestly with only two soccer balls, and by Tuesday, both had been stolen from our donation bin. Despite the setback, we remained optimistic and reached out to local organizations for assistance. By Friday, we were overwhelmed by Missoula's generosity! We collected over 80 soccer balls, jerseys, cleats, and other athletic gear to bring with us to Togo (Check out our Youtube video here)! It was quite a challenge to fit all the additional donations into our luggage, but it's the kind of problem you can't help but be thankful for.
To transport the additional bags of gear, along with our heavy equipment, totaled up to a hefty price tag of up to $1,400. Thanks to our partnerships, the Montana Futbol Foundation (MFF) generously stepped in to sponsor $500 of the cost. MFF is an organization dedicated to giving young athletes the chance to participate in international cultural exchanges, with previous programs taking place in Tanzania. Their support has been invaluable to us.
And finally, a milestone we are thrilled to announce: we’ve reached our $20,000 fundraising goal to build our first classroom! We are deeply grateful to Jim and Tedde Reid, whose generous donation of $6,500 helped to put us over the finish line. Their contribution is the second largest we’ve received to date, and their belief in our mission means the world to us.
As we prepare for work on the ground, we’re filled with gratitude for the support we’ve received, both in financial contributions and support through in-kind donations. Every bit of encouragement brings us closer to making a lasting impact in Togo.
Thank you so much! Merci beaucoup! Akpé kaka looo!
A late departure brings early success
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