On a beautiful evening in late August, donors gathered together at the stunning setting of Nelson Farms on Sauvie Island to show their support for Africa Bridge. Africa Bridge is dedicated to empowering East African communities through integrated, sustainable development programs helping to improve the lives of children orphaned and made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS. Africa Bridge works with local Tanzanian communities by creating income generating cooperative through microloans that support the families who are fostering the villages’ orphans and most vulnerable children. These children also receive scholarships for schooling and additional health education. Currently, Africa Bridge has extended positive influence to over 3,000 children in 16 villages.
The Harvest Gala was a delightful celebration of Hope for the children and communities in Tanzania. The guests were able to enjoy an exhilarating evening filled with African music and drumming, with performances by Sebe Kan (meaning “Serious Sound”) and Obo Addy, as well as a delectable African infused harvest dinner by Devils Food, and, of course, Bob’s African Wine! Lisa MacCallum, Managing Director of The Nike Foundation, shared inspiring words encouraging everyone to invest in adolescent girls as the most powerful force for change in the developing world.
Sebe Kan (Meaning "Serious Sound")
Kelly Russell, Auctioneer of the evening, had the pleasure of conducting the live auction, consisting of beautiful African and World Art. Stunning beaded headdresses were a highlighted item of the night. The 3 headdresses collectively sold for $2,150.
Amazing African and World Art up for auction
After an energetic Live Auction, of amazing African and World Art, Africa Bridge Founder and Executive Director, Barry Childs, challenged guest to reach a goal of $24,000 to expand into 4 additional villages. These funds will be utilized by creating microloans for pig cooperatives. Each cooperative operates at an initial cost of $6000. Enthusiastically, donors raised their bidder numbers to see that, not only 4, but 5 villages will receive a pig cooperative with the $30,000 donated.
Africa Bridge's AMAZING, Generous, and Good Looking Donors!
The generosity of the donors, sponsors, and volunteers who made this night a success, collectively assisted in raising over $40,000 for Africa Bridge. Stay tuned for an exact total in the upcoming days. Thanks to all who were in attendance!
For more information on volunteering, sponsoring, or to further support the mission of Africa Bridge, please visit www.africabridge.org .
Tags: Africa Bridge, Benefit Auction, Kelly Russell, Nelson Farms, Obo Addy, Sebe Kan