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Grant Offers Help Navigating Healthcare-Related Legal Issues

Jennifer Cope
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Grant Offers Help Navigating Healthcare-Related Legal Issues

Quantum Invests in Medical-Legal Partnership
Local health foundation awards $200,000 to the Legal Aid Society to assist people in Palm Beach County with legal issues related to healthcare.

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida: The board of trustees of Quantum Foundation, under the chairmanship of Mrs. Donna Mulholland, recently approved a new grant to Palm Beach County-based Medical Legal Partnership project run by the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc. The private West Palm Beach-based foundation funds projects that help improve the county’s health in fresh and innovative ways.

This brings the total grants awarded to the project by Quantum Foundation to $1.87 million.

Since 1949, the Legal Aid Society has been ensuring equal access to the justice system for low-income, disadvantaged and traditionally underserved residents of Palm Beach County, with more than 8,000 clients served annually through 21 various projects. Legal Aid Society addresses a broad range of legal needs through the following program areas: Family Advocacy, Children’s Advocacy, Individual Rights Advocacy, Elder Advocacy, Health Advocacy, and Community Outreach.

Uninsured and underinsured patients at free clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers throughout Palm Beach County face barriers to proper care and coverage. Barriers such as loss of insurance coverage, denial of benefits, financial hardship due to medical bills, and immigration issues impacting access to healthcare all adversely affect access to care. Of course, this challenge is amplified by the ongoing uncertainty regarding healthcare, the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid, and federal and state public benefits.

The Medical-Legal Partnership improves the health and well-being of low-income uninsured and underinsured patients receiving care at designated primary care clinics throughout Palm Beach County. Currently, the MLP provides services on-site at: C. L. Brumback Primary Care Clinics (Delray, Lantana, West Palm Beach, and Belle Glade), Foundcare, Genesis, MyClinic, Community Health Center of West Palm Beach, and Caridad Center. By providing free legal consultation, education, and representation centered around the patient’s medical home, the MLP increases access to, and utilization of, healthcare services by addressing barriers such as loss of insurance coverage, denial of benefits, financial hardship due to medical bills, and immigration issues affecting access to healthcare.

The project employs two attorneys and a paralegal. One of the attorneys, Christina Russo is a graduate of the University of Florida Levin College of Law and has been with the organization for more than four years. She loves the work she does, using her law degree to help those who often don’t have a voice. She enjoys interacting with her clients. “They’re from every background, every walk of life, and every age group,” she says. “Everyone’s situation and story is unique but they’re all facing this incredibly complicated system. People give up hope but we are expert navigators, appealing decisions and getting them the benefits they’re entitled to. It’s very gratifying work. A lot of people are intimidated and don’t have much faith in the system but there are often ways we can help.”

In addition to direct client services, the Legal Aid Society provides training to clinic staff and medical professionals to identify health-harming social conditions and legal barriers to health and healthcare, and how to recognize when legal intervention should be incorporated as part of a patient’s treatment plan.

Eric M. Kelly, president of Quantum Foundation explains the organization’s commitment to the project: “For many years we’ve been the principal supporter of this invaluable service,” he says. “As a health foundation, we’ve always been a major funder of the community clinics which serve all County residents but we’re also aware that our commitment doesn’t stop at physical health. There’s a huge demand for ancillary services that relate to ‘whole-person health’. We like the innovative approach of funding those projects, too.”

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BACKGROUND:

Quantum Foundation is a private grantmaking organization that funds approved charities and certain government agencies in Palm Beach County, Florida. Quantum Foundation’s mission is to fund initiatives that improve the health of Palm Beach County. The foundation has assets of approximately $140 million and since its inception in 1997 has awarded over $125 million to hundreds of nonprofit grantees in Palm Beach County. Every dollar the foundation grants stays in the County to benefit local communities. www.quantumfnd.org

STOCK CUSTOM HOMES HONORED WITH FOUR SAND DOLLAR AWARDS

Vanessa Fernandez
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STOCK CUSTOM HOMES HONORED WITH FOUR SAND DOLLAR AWARDS

Stock Custom Homes, Stock Development’s luxury custom homebuilding division, received four awards for Product Design at the Collier Building Industry Association’s 2017 Sand Dollar Awards. The highly coveted awards mark excellence in building, development, interior design and marketing in Southwest Florida.

Known for their grandiose and well-appointed models, Stock won Best Product Design of the Year in the $5.5 million or more category for the Aqualane in Estuary at Grey Oaks; in the $3.5 to $4 million category they won for the Sophia II in Quail West; in the $3.25 to $3.5 million category for the Astoria in Crayton Cove; and in the $3 to $3.25 million category for the Atherton in Quail West. Stock Development also notably received its unparalleled eighth Community of the Year Award for Lely Resort.

“We’re honored to receive this recognition for the quality product we have become known for, especially from our peers,” said Matt Sellick, Vice President of Stock Custom Homes. “As we expand the Custom division, we will continue our evolution of excellence in home building throughout Florida.”

To learn more about Stock Custom Homes, explore services and view project photos, visit StockCustomHomes.com.

ABOUT STOCK CUSTOM HOMES
Now celebrating its 16th year as Southwest Florida’s pre-eminent homebuilder, Stock Development has completed more than 4,200 homes along the Gulf Coast and beyond. Continuing to expand, the award-winning luxury homebuilder’s custom homes division, Stock Custom Homes, is actively working on custom estates on Marco Island, Pine Ridge, and in the Wellington area of Palm Beach. With more than seven decades of building experience, Stock Development is one of the most dynamic and innovative development companies in Southwest Florida. Their superb craftsmanship, originality and vibrant outdoor living designs are the hallmarks of distinctive communities from Naples to Sarasota. For more information about Stock Custom Homes’ visit stockcustomhomes.com or call (239) 249-6400.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center Calendar Listings 

Mikayla Carroll
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Loggerhead Marinelife Center Calendar Listings 

Loggerhead Marinelife Center Calendar Listings 

Turtle Talk – Every Sunday @ 10:30 a.m.

FREE

Sue Thompson sthompson@marinelife.org

Turtle Talk is an interactive way to engage visitors 8 years and older in a lecture style program and tour. The program will be 30 minutes and is designed to educate young adults and adults about sea turtle biology, ecology, and conservation. The presentation will be 20 minutes followed by 5 minutes in the Rinker Breezeway to discuss the Rescue to Release wall and 5 minutes outside of the Hospital to discuss sea turtle rehabilitation. The program will be free to the public. The program will run every Sunday from October until April. The program will begin at 10:30am and conclude at 11:00am.
No pre-registration is required.
Contact: Sue Thompson at sthompson@marinelife.org
https://www.marinelife.org/event/turtle-talk/?instance_id=9552

Mommy & Me Paint! – Every Thursday @ 10:30 a.m.

Cost: $8 for one Painter; $12 for two painters

Sue Thompson sthompson@marinelife.org

The Mommy & Me Paint program is offered each Thursday morning during the winter season at 10:30 a.m. and designed to introduce basic sea turtle conservation and biology to young children. The program begins with a brief ocean-themed story and includes a hands-on biofact lesson following a painting activity. Participants have an opportunity to take home their painted turtles and their new sea turtle knowledge.

https://www.marinelife.org/event/mommy-me-paint/?instance_id=9630

Astronomy Nights – November 10 @ 6 – 9 p.m.

Cost: $10 adults, $5 children

Ages 8+

Sue Thompson sthompson@marinelife.org

Our Astronomy Nights program is offered once a month based on the activity of the night sky. Aside from learning about the stars and planets, this program also touches on light pollution and sky glow, encouraging guests to increase their awareness of their impact on the environment. The night will begin with a seminar led by the Astronomical Society of the Palm Beaches, featuring highlights of the current night sky and end with a look through powerful telescopes and binoculars to get a closer view.

https://www.marinelife.org/event/astronomy-nights-at-lmc-2/?instance_id=9665

Eco Adventure Series: Wild Child – November 18 @ 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Cost: $5

Hannah Campbell hcampbell@marinelife.org

Bring out their inner explorer as your wild child explores the Florida outdoors through hands-on, sea turtle-approved activities. Ages 2-5.

Join Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) biologists on local eco excursions and explore the diverse coastal ecosystems of Florida. From river to reef, participants will learn about local flora and fauna as well as gain an insight into the importance of these delicate ecosystems in their community.
https://www.marinelife.org/event/eco-adventure-series-wild-child-2/?instance_id=8263

Hatchling Tales – Every Wednesday 10:30 a.m.

FREE

Sue Thompson sthompson@marinelife.org

Our Hatchling Tales program is geared towards toddlers with a natural curiosity for marine life and sea turtles. In this free, ocean-inspired program, children will enjoy an ocean-themed story coupled with a themed craft to create and take home. This program is designed to cater to young families in the community by offering a new story and craft each session, encouraging frequent visits and support.

https://www.marinelife.org/programs-events/visitor- experiences/

Living Beaches – Every Monday @ 10:30 a.m.

Free – Sign-up at Guest Services Desk

Sue Thompson sthompson@marinelife.org

Join Loggerhead Marinelife Center staff and discover just how alive our beaches are with an interactive presentation and backyard beach expedition. Over this hour-long course, we will discuss the common residents of Florida’s coastal ecosystems and discover how these curious creatures make their long journey from the ocean to our beautiful beaches.

https://www.marinelife.org/programs-events/visitor- experiences/

Hammock Hike – Every Friday @ 10:30 a.m.

Free – Sign-up at Guest Services Desk

Sue Thompson sthompson@marinelife.org

Led by an experienced naturalist, our hammock hikes are an excursion through some of Florida’s most precious habitat. Navigating through the rare coastal hammock and natural dune systems, you will learn the birds in the trees all the way to the grains of sand on the beach. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Guest Services desk in the main lobby.

https://www.marinelife.org/programs-events/visitor- experiences/

The 8th Annual Chef Event returns this year to Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa on Friday, Dec. 1, at 11:30 a.m. 

Mikayla Carroll
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The 8th Annual Chef Event returns this year to Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa on Friday, Dec. 1, at 11:30 a.m. 

The 8th Annual Chef Event returns this year to Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa on Friday, Dec. 1, at 11:30 a.m. 

Seagull Services is pleased to announce that Douglas C. Lane & Associates Inc, and Publix Super Markets Charities are presenting sponsors for the event. All proceeds benefit the programs of Seagull Services for adults and teens with intellectual disabilities.

The highlight of the Chef Event is a culinary demonstration from a pastry chef at the hosting venue – a delight for all the senses as the chef’s creation is the final course of the gourmet luncheon. The Chef Event also features a silent auction and raffles.

Tickets are $95 and $125. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call Elizabeth McDermott at 561-845-5814, ext. 111, or email emcdermott@seagull.org

WHAT: The 8th Annual Chef Event benefitting Seagull Services

WHERE: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, 100 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan

WHEN: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, 2017

HIGHLIGHTS:  Gourmet luncheon and culinary demonstration, silent auction and raffles.

PRESENTING

SPONSORS: Douglas C. Lane & Associates, Inc.

Publix Super Markets Charities

TICKETS: $95 AND $125. Call Elizabeth McDermott at 561-845-5814, ext. 111 or

emcdermott@seagull.org.

MIAMI CHILDREN’S HEALTH SYSTEM TO BE RENAMED NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HEALTH SYSTEM

Mikayla Carroll
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MIAMI CHILDREN’S HEALTH SYSTEM TO BE RENAMED NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HEALTH SYSTEM

MIAMI CHILDREN’S HEALTH SYSTEM TO BE RENAMED NICKLAUS CHILDREN’S HEALTH SYSTEM

MIAMI – Miami Children’s Health System will undergo a name change to align the health system with the branding and identity of its flagship, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Effective November 1, the health system—which includes the nonprofit hospital, its network of outpatient centers, a research institute, a fundraising arm, an employed physician practice and more—will become Nicklaus Children’s Health System in recognition of the continued support from the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation and its founders, golf icon Jack Nicklaus and his wife Barbara. The hospital became Nicklaus Children’s in 2015, following a multi-million-dollar commitment from the Nicklaus family and its foundation.

In addition, Miami Children’s Health Foundation, the health system’s fundraising arm, will soon become Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation, furthering the system-wide branding alignment.

“As an extension of our appreciation for the generosity and unwavering support of Jack and Barbara and their Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, we are proud to further cement the legacy of these exceptional philanthropists who are so committed to offering a better future for children everywhere,” said Dr. Narendra Kini, CEO of the soon-to-be Nicklaus Children’s Health System. “The new name will support our leadership as a global resource for children and families.”

The system-wide re-branding was unveiled Saturday night in Miami at the Diamond Ball, one of South Florida’s most anticipated galas of the year. The event gathers the most influential philanthropists, community leaders and celebrities to celebrate the mission of helping the children and families of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Jack and Barbara Nicklaus were in attendance.

“We are incredibly honored and blessed to be a part of this fantastic institution,” Jack and Barbara Nicklaus said in a combined statement. “Helping children has been our dream since we sat across from each other in our baby daughter’s hospital room, praying for her recovery. That was over 50 years ago, and now, through the partnership with this amazing hospital, health system, assemblage of doctors and specialists, and leadership such as Dr. Kini and Mario Murgado (chairman of the health system board), we treasure our commitment and responsibility to our children.

“To pull together these critical elements and under a single brand is the utmost compliment, and further motivates us to raise awareness and donors for the work being accomplished. We believe we are now on a global map, and we can and will reach new heights in pediatric care.”

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, formerly, Miami Children’s Hospital, has a long and distinguished tradition of serving children. Founded in 1950, the 289-bed private, non-profit freestanding hospital receives children from throughout Florida, the U.S. and more than 75 countries. It is renowned for excellence in all pediatric specialties and has more pediatric programs ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report than any other hospital in Florida.

About Nicklaus Children’s Health System (Name effective November 1)

Founded in 1950 by Variety Clubs International, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, part of Nicklaus Children’s Health System, is South Florida’s only licensed specialty hospital exclusively for children, with more than 740 attending physicians and over 220 pediatric subspecialists. The 289-bed nonprofit hospital is renowned for excellence in all aspects of pediatric medicine and routinely has many programs ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report. The organization grew and evolved into Nicklaus Children’s Health System, which includes Miami Children’s Health Foundation (soon to be Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation), the organization’s 501c3 fundraising arm; a network of 10 nonprofit outpatient centers situated in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties; Pediatric Specialists of America, a nonprofit physician practice subsidiary; a management services organization, and an

ambulatory surgery center, as well as an e-commerce line of children’s wellness and safety products that support the hospital’s mission of serving the region’s pediatric population. Nicklaus Children’s Health System is the region’s only healthcare system exclusively for children.

About Miami Children’s Health Foundation (Soon, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation)

Miami Children’s Health Foundation (MCH Foundation) is a not-for profit 501©(3) organization established to support the creation of a world-class pediatric hospital so no child needs to leave South Florida for superior medical care. “Funding World-Class Care” and following the principle that all children deserve state-of-the-art pediatric care, MCH Foundation, now a part of the Miami Children’s Health System, has helped the 289-bed Nicklaus Children’s Hospital become a leader in pediatric healthcare with more than 650 attending physicians and over 130 pediatric sub-specialists. Currently, MCH Foundation is dedicating all its resources to Together For The Children, The Campaign For Miami Children’s, which aims to raise $150 million by 2017 and help fund priorities such as the expansion of the Emergency Department, construction of a new Advanced Pediatric Care Pavilion, enhancements to its three centers of excellence, and expanding global/telehealth endeavors. Other campaign priorities include research, pediatric outreach and special programs.

About the Nicklaus Children’ Health Care Foundation

Jack and Barbara Nicklaus founded the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation in 2004, in an effort to provide families access to world-class pediatric healthcare in their own communities. The Foundation has grown from a vision to reality, supporting innovative programs focused on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of childhood illnesses. For more information about the Foundation, please visit nchcf.org

Hometown Holiday Food Drive

Mikayla Carroll
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Hometown Holiday Food Drive

Hometown Holiday Food Drive
Do you want to help make the holiday season bright for families in need this year?  Wellington is asking for assistance in making sure no Village resident goes without a hot meal this Thanksgiving. Donations will be accepted Thursday, October 19th through Friday, November 17th. Residents are encouraged to contribute the following food items:

  • Boxed mashed potatoes
  • Boxed stuffing mix
  • Cornbread mix
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Turkey gravy
  • Canned vegetables (Green beans, corn)

All food donations will go directly to local families in need in our community. Residents looking for assistance are asked to contact Gregg Harr with Christ Community Church at (561) 307-2900, Dee Aubry with Christ CommunityChurch at (561) 793-1007 or their local house of worship. All requests must be made prior to Wednesday, November 15th at noon.

Food can be dropped off at Village Hall (12300 Forest Hill Boulevard), Village Park (11700 Pierson Road), the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard), Community Services Office (1092 Wellington Trace), Lake Wellington Professional Centre (12133 Ken Adams Way) Ultima Fitness, The Goddard School, and Schaefer Drugs.

A very special thanks to our community partners, including Wellington’s InterFaith, Christopher Aquirre Memorial Foundation, the Mall at Wellington Green, Ultima Fitness, Walmart, The Goddard School, and Schaefer Drugs.  Partnership opportunities are still available. If you are interested in partnering with us for this event, please contact Meridith Tuckwood, Senior Services Specialist at (561) 753-2476 for more information.

As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/enews.

For information about other Wellington programs, events, activities, and updates, please visit www.wellingtonfl.govor watch WellingtonTV for the latest happenings.

Heat up your Halloween 50 Ocean offers cocktails with a kick

Mikayla Carroll
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Heat up your Halloween 50 Ocean offers cocktails with a kick

Heat up your Halloween
50 Ocean offers cocktails with a kick

Delray Beach, Fla. – Get ready for a howling good time this Halloween at 50 Ocean with the Mango Chili Margarita ($14). The award-winning, oceanfront restaurant is sure to scare up quite a following with the sweet and spicy flavors in this holiday brew.

“The combination of colors and flavors in this margarita celebrates the season,” says general manager, Mark DeAtley. “The ancho chili liqueur and tequila deliver quite a kick, which is then soothed by the mango. The experience is topped off with the sweet, yet spicy surprise of the pepper garnish.”

Mango Chili Margarita
1.25 oz. Herradura Reposado Tequila
.75 oz. Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur
1.5 oz. Ripe Margarita Mix
.05 oz. Mango Real

To mix: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice; cover and shake (about 30 seconds). Pour black salt onto a plate and dip the rim of a large goblet into the salt to coat the edge. Strain margarita into the glass, garnish with a peppadew, and enjoy!

50 Ocean is located at 50 South Ocean Blvd. A1A, Delray Beach, Florida. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit 50ocean.com or call 561.278.3364.

 

About 50 Ocean
Located above Boston’s on the Beach, the casually elegant 50 Ocean offers spectacular, panoramic ocean views through a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, and exquisite cuisine with exciting, local influences, beautifully presented by a knowledgeable and seasoned staff. 50 Ocean also includes the chic Hemingway Lounge, a private dining/wine room perfect for special events, business lunches, and celebrations. An outside patio with understated style is the hot spot for a weekend brunch, featuring bottomless mimosas and a build-your-own Grey Goose Bloody Mary bar.

Don Chepo’s Taco Shop Opening in November

Samantha Clark
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Don Chepo’s Taco Shop Opening in November

Don Chepo’s Taco Shop Opening in November

The Fashion Cuisine Group is at it again with the opening of their newest restaurant, Don Chepo’s. The taco shop is located at the former Seahorse restaurant and will open in early November. Don Chepo’s is the latest addition to the Fashion Cuisine Group, with co-owners, Dustin Parfitt and Juan Gando, leading the way. Unlike its predecessors, Oli’s, The Grille and Whitehorse, Don Chepo’s will have a much lower price point and have a completely different concept. “They want this to be something where a family can swing by after practice and have four or five people eat affordably,” says Kelly Colbath, Fashion Cuisine Group marketing manager.

The restaurant is laid back with a family friendly atmosphere. Guests outside will be surrounded by herbs that are grown on site and used in Don Chepo’s kitchen, while patrons inside will be mesmerized by urban graffiti artwork while choosing a cocktail from the extensive tequila bar. Parfitt says, “We loved the feel of the taco shops we frequented down in Miami and wanted to bring a little bit of that to the suburbia of Wellington.”

Everything in Don Chepo’s is homemade, including corn tortillas that are made first from corn, then formed into masa dough and most importantly–hand pressed daily! There are no easy shortcuts taken by this group. They will serve traditional Mexican cuisine, with a flair of creativity. There will always be a vegan option, such as the Fried Avocado tacos that are accompanied by the restaurant’s very own guacamole and homemade hot sauce. 

Parfitt and Gando want the community of Wellington to know they are trying to make this an “affordable, family friendly and casual” restaurant that is very different from their other restaurants. They are currently at the Wellington Green Market on Saturdays, if you need your taco fix before their November opening.

First Serve- Changing Lives

admin
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First Serve- Changing Lives

First Serve- Changing Lives

By Anya Millard, 6th Grade, Eagle Arts Academy

Everyone deserves a chance to be happy. There are many kids out there who live in bad communities or kids whose parents cannot afford much. That is not all, but kids deserve a chance to try new things most other kids can do. First Serve is an organization that teaches underprivileged kids sports and life skills. They teach kids right and wrong and let them have fun by playing sports. They take kids from bad neighborhoods, so they can be happy and play sports such as basketball, soccer and tennis. They also teach kids life skills such as science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Not only that, but they feed the kids too.

 We talked to the CEO of the organization Sonny Maken and the president of the Board of Directors Paul Van der Grift. They are both an inspiration and told us many things about First Serve. Sonny is not only the CEO but a father, to an 11-year-old daughter Abigail Maken. One important thing he said was, “You need to understand the language of power.” This organization is an afterschool program. For other kids they also started a peer program and are given scholarships. This is a terrific opportunity for older kids and not just underprivileged ones. First Serve also loves the help of other volunteers and volunteers love to help them too. That is why 70% of the organization is composed of volunteers. Only 30% are staff. You can volunteer too! They have 10 sites in Florida and are going to expand and get at least 3 more sites this year. They already have 450 kids enrolled in First Serve. They are going to expand and soon there will be around 600 kids.

CEO of First Serve USA Sonny Maken

 Of course, this is not cheap. First Serve raises money in many ways. They raise money from donations, events and company sponsorships. They collect about $700,000 per year. First Serve does not care about profits; they care about the kids. Kids are their inspiration. Sonny Maken also said, “The main premise [of First Serve] is that you are not poor for lack of opportunity, you are poor because of a lack of awareness.” First Serve has been around for 20 years. Here is a fun fact: First Serve was named “Tennis Pals” before it was called First Serve.

 Sonny Maken also gave us some advice on running a company. He told us to get ready to work hard, find people who believe what you believe and to build relationships with people.

 Do you want to help change someone’s life and make a kid happy? You can donate money, shoes, clothes and equipment for the sports, like basketball, soccer and tennis that they need. Or for the activities that they do. You can help kids in your community and give them a chance to be happy. You can give kids the opportunity to be someone and maybe one day they will be saving lives, too. Do a good thing and make a difference in someone’s life. Like the old Jewish saying “if you save a life, you save the world.”

 

Website: www.firstserveusa.org

Social media:

Instagram: @firstserveusa

Twitter: @FirstServePBC

Facebook: @firstserveusa

Dream Sponsors, Inc. – Helping Kids in Kenya

admin
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Dream Sponsors, Inc. – Helping Kids in Kenya

Dream Sponsors, Inc. – Helping Kids in Kenya

By Amanda Teixeira, 7th Grade, Eagle Arts Academy

   Helping kids is something everyone should do – whether you’re providing them education or if you’re giving them a place to stay for a while. To serve those in need in Western Kenya, there is an organization called Dream Sponsors. They help many kids whose parents are in prison or have passed away. By reading on you can see how they help the kids, some problems they have faced, and how these kids are living. 
   At Dream Sponsors, they help the kids by giving them a place to stay, an education, clothing, and food. The kids attend a school named Sirua Aulo Academy, meaning Beautiful View in Swahili, (the language the kids speak in Kenya). The kids are very dedicated to school, they work very hard. For a kid to be able to be a part of the organization, they must fill out a form saying why they should be there and what they want to be when they grow up. For example, some kids want to be a pilot or nurse. However for them to reach those goals they know they have to be in school, so they work their best. The school they attend is great because it accepts kids with disabilities, which the organization helps with. If a person wants to sponsor a child the price is $1300, this includes clothing, limited food, and boarding school. Dream Sponsors is also great for kids because there are bad guys out there. These kids can be vulnerable and some people out there can promise them stuff for example money, for something bad in return. So let’s be thankful for having Dream Sponsors help these kids in Kenya.


   As good as they can be, Dream Sponsors, Inc. has faced many problems. Carla Neumann said, “I’d have to write a book on how many problems we’ve faced.” Carla Neumann is the founder of Dream Sponsors, she founded this organization in 2012. Her inspiration was the kids in Kenya. She had a trip to Kenya and she said that when she was there. many kids she met said they wished they could go back to the USA with her. So she came up with the organization that helps kids follow their dreams. One of many problems was food. They don’t have as much food in Kenya. However, kids are very thankful for the help they have been given. Because they know they don’t have to go to the bad side. Some of the goals they have in the future are to help more kids. Also since Kenya is not provided with technology, they want in the future for the kids to be provided with computers. They also want to have a cultural exchange with the United States.  (We are going to start a penpals program with some of the students here at Eagle Arts Academy and some of the students in Kenya). 
   In Kenya, kids live a hard life. Girls often get married at the age of 14 or 15. Also, “the kids have to bathe in the river,” said Carla. Someday I hope these kids have everything they need because they are good kids. The kids have to go to school, walking without shoes – that is when they are not provided transportation. But that’s how much they want to go to school. As you can see it is very important to help children – it can make a difference in their lives.

Founder of Dream Sponsors Inc. Carla Neumann with two Kenyan students
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