Dearest friends and family,

I am excited and happy to share with you all that I have been accepted to serve the children of Kampala, Uganda as a speech and language pathologist for three weeks. 

I discovered Hope Speaks while I was searching for organizations with opportunities to work with children from diverse cultures different from my own. I learned that over 19% of Uganda’s population is living with a disability. In Kampala, Uganda, 1 in 7 children are living with a disability, and many of them have never received the therapy services they need to live functional, happy lives. Many people living in Uganda face challenges in receiving medical support and rehabilitation services. There is a high rate of illnesses, such as HIV/AIDS and malaria due to a variety of socioeconomic factors that impact employment, access to clean water and basic medical needs. 

For a clinician who has been practicing for the past 6 years providing individualized intervention for adult swallowing disorders, adult and pediatric speech and language delays, cognitive-linguistic impairments, this is an amazing opportunity for me. Not only will I be able to provide services to children abroad, but I will also supervise and mentor clinicians while working with the population. This opportunity will also allow me to expand my education outside of the United States. As a former teacher in the public school setting, I understand the importance of lifelong learning. As a clinician, it is my goal to continue this educational journey, both nationally AND internationally.

The funds collected from this fundraiser will go towards airfare, lodgings, ground transportation, meals, health insurance, Internet access while in the country, laundry, utilities, and processing fees. Every donation is important and will enable me to be present and help these children with disabilities. Also, I would appreciate your willingness to share this with others who may want to participate. 

Please keep me in your prayers that I will grow professionally and spiritually through this journey. Thank you so much for being a part of my life and helping me accomplish something that's important to all of us.