Getting started...

So I'm new to this whole blogging thing..this will go down as my first entry ever! So exciting. I will attach some general information about Uganda, and some info about HELP International, so you can get an idea of what the experience will be like!

Uganda is located in Eastern Africa; Winston Churchill coined it's name, the "Pearl of Africa" because of it's magnificent scenery and culture. Uganda is a beautiful place, but definitely has its share of problems. Over 60% of children live in poverty. Malaria, respiratory infections, and diarrhoea are the main causes of under-5 mortality. Nearly one half of the 2 million orphans are orphaned due to AIDS. The list goes on and on. I can't wait to get over there and help the people of Uganda!

Here is a direct excerpt from the HELP International website, giving an overview of the program in Uganda:

"HELP International has been in Uganda for three years. We live in a village called Lugazi which is a small town of about 33,000 people. Lugazi is surrounded by sugar cane plantations, and many of the inhabitants are poor laborers. Just outside of the sugar cane fields are remote villages where we bring many of our projects. Projects in Uganda include: HIV/AIDS support group, business training, adobe stoves, square-foot gardening, public health campaigns, support for children with disability, and more.
Country Description: Uganda is in East Africa and is known as the "Pearl of Africa" because of its lush jungle and rolling hills. Though Uganda lays on the mouth of the Nile River and is replete with natural resources, the Ugandan people remain deeply impoverished. The official language is English, however in Lugazi, many people also speak a tribal language called Luganda. Translators are always readily avaible and most volunteeers end up learning alittle of Luganda."

I can't wait! Only a few more months. Now i have to seriously focus on fundraising for this amazing trip!