GIFT OF EDUCATION: "IF WE HOLD ON TOGETHER"
Westchester's 12th annual benefit for the Schools of Africa Project was held in Irvington, NY at the beautiful, modern Eileen Fisher Hall located next to the Hudson River. Looking out of the wall-to-wall windows in the spacious hall, it was stunning to see the glistening river right outside. We are grateful for the generosity of Eileen Fisher for allowing us the use of this venue. Eileen Fisher is a Fortune 500 company, a very distinguished fashion designer, and is well-known for her support of worthy causes and worthwhile organizations.
Our emcee, Ms. Susan Bouachri, opened the program, introducing the very talented, Mr. Raoul Joseph who warmed the atmosphere and our hearts by singing, "If We Hold on Together." After which Mrs. Alexa Ward-Fish, Deputy Director of the UN Office of WFWP International, spoke. Mrs. Ward gave a broad and very informative presentation on the United Nations' recent establishment of the Sustainable Development Goals, aimed at solving the most troubling world problems. We were proud to hear that WFWP International that has received the highest NGO ranking at the United Nations; namely, an NGO in General Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC); has been actively participating for many years to find solutions both through educational and service work, specifically the WFWP Schools of Africa Project.
Next it was time to enjoy the lunch that Ms. Kanae Holt and her sister Ms. Chiharu Kellar had so lovingly prepared. There was an amazing display of California rolls, shrimp cocktail, sandwiches, chicken, vegetables, cheese and crackers, fruit, and desserts. Everything was so delicious and was presented very professionally and tastefully.
After lunch, Ms. Lily Shapiro enthusiastically presented a pictorial report of the successes achieved through the Schools of Africa project. The many photos of happy African children at the WFWP schools certainly awakened in us how much our dollars substantially change the lives of those beautiful, deserving children. A stirring song sung by Raoul Joseph, "Can You Feel the Love Tonight," touched the hearts of all present.
The keynote speaker, Mame Kani Diop from Senegal, brightened the atmosphere in her gorgeous native dress and matching headdress. Ms. Diop is undertaking graduate studies on the family and has done extensive research on traditional African customs that are harmful to women. Her talk entitled, "The Gift of Education," provided details on some of the improvements in education of African children. At the same time, she spoke about the unfortunate failure of education to reach many children; and the very low percentage, about 6%, of those students that actually reach the college level.
From her presentation it was so clear how critical education is to lift children out of poverty. Ms.
Diop shared her own story of growing up in Senegal and of having to persevere through many obstacles. With much gratitude she announced that she will soon receive her doctorate.
The event that evening, not only raised funds to promote the education of African youth, it also raised our own hopes and our determination as women dedicated to peace and the well-being of others to continue to work to bring that to fruition.
I would like to thank all of you who attended the benefit and for helping make it a great success.
This was truly a community event. The Westchester "Up and Coming Youth Ministry" came and the Collegiate Association for the Research of Principles (CARP, see http://carplife.org/), members helped out with the set up. Kudos to the Bridgeport Chapter of WFWP who came out to lend their support. Through it all, we came very close to our goal of raising $6,000 for the Schools of Africa. And as we keep on hoping for a few more checks we just might get there.