By Julie Calleja, 4th grade teacher, Portola Elementary
In January, 2007, my 4th grade class decided to write a book and enter it into the Scholastic “Kids are Authors” contest. The deadline wasn’t until March so we had plenty of time. We brainstormed topics for our book. One day, I happened to see the 7-minute Frontline piece about PlayPump® water system that ran on PBS. It really touched me, so I showed my class the video. We voted for our topic and the class chose to write about the water problem and PlayPump systems. The class nominated teams to illustrate the structures and scenery. They then nominated the illustrator to draw the people (to keep them consistent throughout the book). Teams of writers were created who, once we had the draft of the story, wrote the text. Everybody was able to contribute an illustration by creating a border for each page.
Once the book was finished, we voted on who we would like to dedicate it to. It was unanimous: Trevor Field, the man we saw on the video and the founder of PlayPumps International. We watched the video again on Frontline’s website and noticed that Trevor had commented and given his email address. We decided to email him to let him know we dedicated our book to him and that we needed his address to send him a copy. We were THRILLED when he responded. He told us that we put a tear in a grown man’s eye and he sent us proof with a picture of himself holding OUR BOOK!! We all looked very closely at that picture to find the tear in his eye.
Trevor suggested we raise money and buy a PlayPump for a village. He gave us RandomKid’s email address and told us about Talia Leman. A few days later, Talia emailed us and invited us to “lead the nation” in a project that would help eliminate the world’s water problem. We were overwhelmed with the energy and positive spirit of the people we met at RandomKid that of course we said yes.
We got to work. We collected possible names for our water. We then voted for our favorite which was “Water for Life.” The children then came up with a logo.
Our class decided we wanted the water sooner rather than later. Our first delivery was on May 14, 2007. Francisco, the delivery man, took our pictures as we rushed out to meet his truck. Before he helped us transport the water into our storage room, we ripped the plastic off the case to reveal the beautiful label, our label, that we hoped would save lives. We couldn’t believe how much water we ordered. We had over 7,000 bottles! In three weeks, we raised over $3,000! We had shifts in which the children would sell water at recess and after school. One child would work the cash register, another would be the product handler, and two others help up our sign that read, “SAVE LIVES! BUY OUR WATER!”
When the news came in that we had not won the Scholastic “Kids are Authors” contest, I dreaded telling them that they didn’t win. They had such high hopes!! When I finally did announce it, one of my students raised her hand and said something like, “We already won. If we didn’t write that book, we never would have met Trevor or RandomKid, and we never would have been doing this project.” I was relieved when the rest of the class chimed in agreement. I was so very proud to be their teacher.
When we first started talking about the water problem, the kids were a little confused. “Why can’t they go to a faucet?” was a common question. It was difficult for them to grasp the idea that many people just don’t have a faucet. The statistic “Every 15 seconds, a child dies of a water related illness,” really affected them. They all began looking at the clock. “Ms. Calleja, 2 kids just died while you were talking,” was a comment one of my students made. That really made an impact on them.
I was prepared for giggles when I explained that the bacteria in the water gave little children diarrhea and that’s what many end up dying from. I was surprised at how few giggles there were. They took it very seriously and understood the gravity of many family’s situations.
When we began the “Water for Life” project, I asked the children what our goal should be. I was expecting answers like “Sell $10,000 worth of water” or “Buy a PlayPump”. I was shocked when they agreed that their goal was to eliminate the world’s water problem for good by 2018. We vowed that we would all get together in 2018 and toast to our efforts that helped eliminate the world’s water problem. Of course, we agreed we would toast with apple cider since alcohol is disgusting.
Overall, I noticed the kids were really interested in the rest of the world after we began this project. Some would come in and report on other problems going on in the world. I think being involved in this helped them realize that we are SO lucky to have everything we have here in America.
Working with the other schools taught me that our country is full of wonderful people everywhere that want to help the most desperate of people in the world. The kids were so excited to get an email from the other schools doing the same thing we were doing. Since we started this project late in the year, we didn’t have much of a chance to communicate too much with the other schools, but we plan on communicating much more in the next school year.
I hope by sharing our story--that others will see that they too can make a difference with a little effort. I also hope that people see that there are people in the world suffering without the most basic of human needs: water. We are so lucky here in America. We have everything plus more. We should be sharing our wealth with everyone, especially those most needy. I hope people’s attitudes change to see that we are all one people and we all deserve the most basic human rights. I also hope that my students will be changed forever by this experience. Maybe this will motivate them to do more humanitarian work in their lives.
I also hope that this increases our water sales, so we can buy another PlayPump water system. ;)
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
The Academy-- Des Moines, IA
by Jody Konrad, 4th & 5th grade Language Arts Teacher, The Academy -- Des Moines, IA
Please tell us about how your school first got involved
As kids of character, our goal was to participate in a project that would teach us about and promote the trait of citizenship.
1. We contacted RandomKid, for citizenship project ideas.
2. RandomKid provided a list of possible projects. From the list, we were most interested in one involved with bringing safe drinking water to developing countries (click here for details). This topic tied in nicely with our science units covering water and human anatomy. It also provided us with an opportunity to be responsible citizens and really make a difference to other kids.
3. A RandomKid representative visited our classroom and gave us background information about water problems and solutions. She used the Internet and a projector to share ideas with us. She referred to the web sites listed below.
THE STATE OF THE WORLD'S WATER:
http://www.unicef.org/progressforchildren/2006n5/photoessay/index.html
FRONTLINE STORY: http://www.pbs.org/frontlineworld/rough/2005/10/south_africa_th.html
PlayPumps International:
http://www.playpumps.org/site/c.hqLNIXOEKrF/b.2559311/k.7BCB/Playpumps_International_and_the_PlayPump_water_system_Kids_play_Water_Pumps.htm
http://www.tapproject.org/
4. We became particularly interested in PlayPumps International.
5. We decided to try to bottle, name, and market water whose proceeds would be used toward the purchase of Play Pumps and toward bringing safe drinking water to developing countries.
6. To motivate and organize students, each child was given a binder, referred to as a "water workbook." This was a 1 ½ inch white binder with a clear plastic cover. Inside the cover, each child put a title page with his/her name on it. Each child was also given two dividers to place inside of the binder. One divider labeled a section as "Ideas," and the other divider designate a section as "Information." Writing and drawing paper were added to each section. Labels were used to divide the "Ideas" section into places to brainstorm "Names," "Places to Market" and "Resources." Finally, monthly calendars for April, May, and June, created on Print Shop, were added to the back of the binder, and each child was given a pen with which to write special water project notes.
7. As we proceeded with the project, an informational note was sent home to parents.
8. Children were also provided with a few basic water facts.
9. Water names and tag lines were brainstormed by the students, as well as by associated adults, and a survey was created. This survey was given to students at The Academy, as well as to approximately 50 adults. Students analyzed the data and used it in making decisions.
10. The children made the decision to call the water "AQUASHARE: Ease Thirst around the Earth."
11. The children submitted drawings to be considered for the water bottle label. The class then voted, and Henry Gunderson’s drawing was selected.
12. 8,000 bottles of AQUASHARE, bottled by Humboldt Springs in Humboldt, Iowa, arrived at Mrs. Konrad’s home in Clive, Iowa, on June 13, 2007. Mrs. Ricker, who is our principal, along with several students and their families were present to unload the boxes of water. The kids worked very hard and received media coverage from 3 local news stations, as well as a local newspaper. They also enjoyed cookies and AQUASHARE following the event!
13. We are now in the process of marketing our water! We have sold individually and well at some group occasions. My 12 students sold almost $5000 dollars worth of water in just 2-3 months!
Anecdotes:
The children were absolutely thrilled when they received their "professional" binders and pens with which to conduct AQUASHARE business!
For the delivery/unloading event, I made homemade cookies for the children. Our principal, Kathy Ricker, also brought cookies. Upon completion of the unloading, we all enjoyed a cookie and a bottle of AQUASHARE together. In the process, I stepped inside of my house. When I returned to the garage, I noticed that most people were eating Mrs. Ricker's cookies - not mine. I however, enjoyed several of my homemade cookies. I learned later that Will, age 8, who had been so nice to serve the cookies, had accidentally dropped them onto the garage floor and didn't want to hurt my feelings! I also learned that our local NBC affiliate caught the cookie dropping on tape and has it as a blooper!
While most kids like to have the summer off, kids from The Academy have been meeting throughout the summer break to sell water. On Saturday, after a long day of selling in the hot sun, Christopher, age 9, asked when we were going to sell again. This is representative of the heartfelt commitment that these kids have to this project.
Did the atmosphere at school or the students attitudes change as they engaged in this, please explain?
Robert Louis Stevenson said, "It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive." While we are touched by the destination of the PlayPump installation, the journey itself has affected us beyond description.
The project, first of all, reinforced so many of our academic skills. As readers of non-fiction print, we applied our comprehension skills to learn all that we could about water concerns, about Africa, and about the PlayPump® water system. As we developed our product, we applied so many math skills. The children actually created a survey of potential names and conducted the survey with approximately 80 students and 30 adults. They made tally charts of the results and analyzed the data to make a name decision. Furthermore, the boys and girls put their persuasive skills into action when marketing the water. Social studies was enhanced, as were our third grade studies of water and of the human body.
On a grander scale, however, the AQUASHARE project has changed us as people. We have all learned that we can set a goal, create a plan, and achieve it. We are able people, and we have a responsibility to share our gifts with others. The children have become much more cohesive than ever. We meet, talk, and email one another on a regular basis - even when school is not in session - and refer to ourselves on occasion as "Team AQUASHARE." We have learned that we are better together and can learn and grow into something much bigger than ourselves.
Note: At the end of the school year, Ramya, age 9, went to our school principal with a plan. She proposed that Academy students get pledges of money for books that they read during the summer, and the money raised would be used to help send a child in India to school. Ramya has actually effectively put that program into action. I believe that her AQUASHARE experience contributed to her motivation, confidence, and ability to carry out such a plan.
Please tell us what it meant to you and the children to be joining other schools in a common goal to help others. Did any of the kids think it was cool to be emailing other schools, etc? Please describe.
Though our project really gained momentum at the end of the academic year, we were able to connect with Julie Calleja's 4th grade class in California. They had written a book, and they shared their book, along with a bottle of "Water for Life" with us. We emailed with them and learned each other's names. This was a very special ingredient in this process for us. That human connection was of great significance to us, and we plan to continue to stay in touch.
What do you hope to accomplish by sharing your story?
One of my favorite words is "effervescent." I love the idea of something starting very small and that, when added with someone or something else, grows, spreads, and bubbles with excitement. It is my hope that sharing our story will produce an effervescent effect so that others will realize their responsibilty and ability and make the decision that "if it is to be, it is up to me." Like the AQUASHARE label says, "Did you know that a child dies every 8 seconds from a water-borne illness? Did you know that you can help?"
Please tell us about how your school first got involved
As kids of character, our goal was to participate in a project that would teach us about and promote the trait of citizenship.
1. We contacted RandomKid, for citizenship project ideas.
2. RandomKid provided a list of possible projects. From the list, we were most interested in one involved with bringing safe drinking water to developing countries (click here for details). This topic tied in nicely with our science units covering water and human anatomy. It also provided us with an opportunity to be responsible citizens and really make a difference to other kids.
3. A RandomKid representative visited our classroom and gave us background information about water problems and solutions. She used the Internet and a projector to share ideas with us. She referred to the web sites listed below.
THE STATE OF THE WORLD'S WATER:
http://www.unicef.org/progressforchildren/2006n5/photoessay/index.html
FRONTLINE STORY: http://www.pbs.org/frontlineworld/rough/2005/10/south_africa_th.html
PlayPumps International:
http://www.playpumps.org/site/c.hqLNIXOEKrF/b.2559311/k.7BCB/Playpumps_International_and_the_PlayPump_water_system_Kids_play_Water_Pumps.htm
http://www.tapproject.org/
4. We became particularly interested in PlayPumps International.
5. We decided to try to bottle, name, and market water whose proceeds would be used toward the purchase of Play Pumps and toward bringing safe drinking water to developing countries.
6. To motivate and organize students, each child was given a binder, referred to as a "water workbook." This was a 1 ½ inch white binder with a clear plastic cover. Inside the cover, each child put a title page with his/her name on it. Each child was also given two dividers to place inside of the binder. One divider labeled a section as "Ideas," and the other divider designate a section as "Information." Writing and drawing paper were added to each section. Labels were used to divide the "Ideas" section into places to brainstorm "Names," "Places to Market" and "Resources." Finally, monthly calendars for April, May, and June, created on Print Shop, were added to the back of the binder, and each child was given a pen with which to write special water project notes.
7. As we proceeded with the project, an informational note was sent home to parents.
8. Children were also provided with a few basic water facts.
9. Water names and tag lines were brainstormed by the students, as well as by associated adults, and a survey was created. This survey was given to students at The Academy, as well as to approximately 50 adults. Students analyzed the data and used it in making decisions.
10. The children made the decision to call the water "AQUASHARE: Ease Thirst around the Earth."
11. The children submitted drawings to be considered for the water bottle label. The class then voted, and Henry Gunderson’s drawing was selected.
12. 8,000 bottles of AQUASHARE, bottled by Humboldt Springs in Humboldt, Iowa, arrived at Mrs. Konrad’s home in Clive, Iowa, on June 13, 2007. Mrs. Ricker, who is our principal, along with several students and their families were present to unload the boxes of water. The kids worked very hard and received media coverage from 3 local news stations, as well as a local newspaper. They also enjoyed cookies and AQUASHARE following the event!
13. We are now in the process of marketing our water! We have sold individually and well at some group occasions. My 12 students sold almost $5000 dollars worth of water in just 2-3 months!
Anecdotes:
The children were absolutely thrilled when they received their "professional" binders and pens with which to conduct AQUASHARE business!
For the delivery/unloading event, I made homemade cookies for the children. Our principal, Kathy Ricker, also brought cookies. Upon completion of the unloading, we all enjoyed a cookie and a bottle of AQUASHARE together. In the process, I stepped inside of my house. When I returned to the garage, I noticed that most people were eating Mrs. Ricker's cookies - not mine. I however, enjoyed several of my homemade cookies. I learned later that Will, age 8, who had been so nice to serve the cookies, had accidentally dropped them onto the garage floor and didn't want to hurt my feelings! I also learned that our local NBC affiliate caught the cookie dropping on tape and has it as a blooper!
While most kids like to have the summer off, kids from The Academy have been meeting throughout the summer break to sell water. On Saturday, after a long day of selling in the hot sun, Christopher, age 9, asked when we were going to sell again. This is representative of the heartfelt commitment that these kids have to this project.
Did the atmosphere at school or the students attitudes change as they engaged in this, please explain?
Robert Louis Stevenson said, "It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive." While we are touched by the destination of the PlayPump installation, the journey itself has affected us beyond description.
The project, first of all, reinforced so many of our academic skills. As readers of non-fiction print, we applied our comprehension skills to learn all that we could about water concerns, about Africa, and about the PlayPump® water system. As we developed our product, we applied so many math skills. The children actually created a survey of potential names and conducted the survey with approximately 80 students and 30 adults. They made tally charts of the results and analyzed the data to make a name decision. Furthermore, the boys and girls put their persuasive skills into action when marketing the water. Social studies was enhanced, as were our third grade studies of water and of the human body.
On a grander scale, however, the AQUASHARE project has changed us as people. We have all learned that we can set a goal, create a plan, and achieve it. We are able people, and we have a responsibility to share our gifts with others. The children have become much more cohesive than ever. We meet, talk, and email one another on a regular basis - even when school is not in session - and refer to ourselves on occasion as "Team AQUASHARE." We have learned that we are better together and can learn and grow into something much bigger than ourselves.
Note: At the end of the school year, Ramya, age 9, went to our school principal with a plan. She proposed that Academy students get pledges of money for books that they read during the summer, and the money raised would be used to help send a child in India to school. Ramya has actually effectively put that program into action. I believe that her AQUASHARE experience contributed to her motivation, confidence, and ability to carry out such a plan.
Please tell us what it meant to you and the children to be joining other schools in a common goal to help others. Did any of the kids think it was cool to be emailing other schools, etc? Please describe.
Though our project really gained momentum at the end of the academic year, we were able to connect with Julie Calleja's 4th grade class in California. They had written a book, and they shared their book, along with a bottle of "Water for Life" with us. We emailed with them and learned each other's names. This was a very special ingredient in this process for us. That human connection was of great significance to us, and we plan to continue to stay in touch.
What do you hope to accomplish by sharing your story?
One of my favorite words is "effervescent." I love the idea of something starting very small and that, when added with someone or something else, grows, spreads, and bubbles with excitement. It is my hope that sharing our story will produce an effervescent effect so that others will realize their responsibilty and ability and make the decision that "if it is to be, it is up to me." Like the AQUASHARE label says, "Did you know that a child dies every 8 seconds from a water-borne illness? Did you know that you can help?"
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
About the Community
About Marble Hall, South Africa
RandomKid's PlayPump was installed on the grounds of Masana Primary school in Marble Hall, South Africa. They are an intermediary school that accommodates students from age 11 to 15. They have 694 students and 18 teachers. The school is about 93 miles from Johannesburg. They are situated in the village of Libangeni about a mile back from the road. The school forms the epicentre of the community as it is surrounded by a gravel soccer field and a series of small shops and houses. Unemployment in the area is high and the school is entirely dependent on government subsidies as parents cannot afford to pay school fees. The school recently received electricity but still use pit latrines because of the water shortages and back log of infrastructure. There is a feeding scheme in place which at least ensures that the children receive one nutritious meal a day. The three ladies who prepare the food do so on a voluntary basis . They have the daily challenge of collecting about 40 gallons of water to cook and wash up for the meal. Prior to the PlayPump the ladies would have to source water at the next village when the bulk water supply failed. The native languages of isiPedi and Ndebele are dominant in the area but the children are taught in English.
RandomKid's PlayPump was installed on the grounds of Masana Primary school in Marble Hall, South Africa. They are an intermediary school that accommodates students from age 11 to 15. They have 694 students and 18 teachers. The school is about 93 miles from Johannesburg. They are situated in the village of Libangeni about a mile back from the road. The school forms the epicentre of the community as it is surrounded by a gravel soccer field and a series of small shops and houses. Unemployment in the area is high and the school is entirely dependent on government subsidies as parents cannot afford to pay school fees. The school recently received electricity but still use pit latrines because of the water shortages and back log of infrastructure. There is a feeding scheme in place which at least ensures that the children receive one nutritious meal a day. The three ladies who prepare the food do so on a voluntary basis . They have the daily challenge of collecting about 40 gallons of water to cook and wash up for the meal. Prior to the PlayPump the ladies would have to source water at the next village when the bulk water supply failed. The native languages of isiPedi and Ndebele are dominant in the area but the children are taught in English.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Glastonbury Public Schools -- Glastonbury, CT
by Kate Grabowski Clark, Teacher, Glastonbury, CT
The idea, as the web link describes, came from a unit I was teaching that had the students developing an architectural design for an African community. I saw the PlayPump ad in the New York Times, and absolutely LOVED it. My four grade 5 students, Willa, Emily., Kyran and Zach, whom I teach within the gifted program in our district (a photo of them is on the site as well), became very excited when I asked if they would like to do something to raise money for the pump. We decided that SELLING water made the most sense- it is healthy, and of course, everyone needs it to survive- it links us all. The 4 in WATER 4 WATER is significant- there are four of them (my students) and, MOST IMPORTANTLY, we had read somewhere that over 4,000 children die each day of water borne diseases. I have a sign in my classroom that states- "WHAT WILL YOUR CONTRIBUTION BE?" This question drives much of the instruction that takes place in my classroom and they certainly wanted to make a contribution.
In the six months they sold water, nobody ever once said, "Ms. GC, do we have to keep doing this every morning?" And, during the last days of school, I tried to tell them that during special school days and the last week of school that maybe they didn’t need to sell water so they could have a bit of a break, and they would look at me like I was crazy and say, “We can’t stop now! We can’t SKIP days!” They even came up with a teacher delivery service that had students delivering bottles of water to teachers’ desks before school if a teacher would buy a bottle a day for a month at a time.
Initially, the atmosphere in the district related to the project was certainly powerful and energetic, but I think the most significant change as time wore on was how SERIOUS we all became about this responsibility we had of trying to care for others. As we learned more and more about the DIRE needs and SERIOUSNESS of the water crisis, it became apparent to me, and I know others, how critical it was to never forget the reality of the people's lives in Africa that we were trying to affect. We were awed by this truly HUGE responsibility we had taken on (it wasn't just this "cool" project anymore), and humbled by what we were doing. They would actually reprimand each other when occasionally a student would be “late” at the water selling table!
The originating students (from one of the schools in Glastonbury) presented this to representatives from 5 other schools in Glastonbury (that were all bussed to that school by the supt.) in a Powerpoint Presentation they created when it was decided to expand the project to all the elementary schools in town. This effort connected all the students in the community with a common goal of buying and selling water for Africans. We did not email other schools, but they all hung posters, ran raffles (every time you buy a bottle of water, you get a ticket, at the end of the week a ticket is pulled and someone receives a free book) and created punchcards (buy 10 bottles and the principal will donate one), and many other incentives to get everyone excited!
RandomKid came into the picture after I saw the Frontline video with Trevor (RoundAbout creator for the PlayPump water system) and I posted my description of our project on the PBS Frontline website. Dana (RandomKid Director) and/or Trevor saw it and she contacted me in Connecticut (called me at school). We spoke and I agreed to take a look at RandomKid's mission and thought that our project was a great fit with what you are trying to achieve. I discussed our Superintendent in Glastonbury, and we agreed we would be honored to accept a contribution of $2500 from the sales in Iowa and California to help begin a national effort by schoolchildren to fund Playpumps, or other water related projects. We hope to continue to sell water and in turn, give back to additional pumps that RandomKid’s children raise money for in the future. (RandomKid has) worked with non-stop energy to create a nationwide movement and have created great momentum so far!
The idea, as the web link describes, came from a unit I was teaching that had the students developing an architectural design for an African community. I saw the PlayPump ad in the New York Times, and absolutely LOVED it. My four grade 5 students, Willa, Emily., Kyran and Zach, whom I teach within the gifted program in our district (a photo of them is on the site as well), became very excited when I asked if they would like to do something to raise money for the pump. We decided that SELLING water made the most sense- it is healthy, and of course, everyone needs it to survive- it links us all. The 4 in WATER 4 WATER is significant- there are four of them (my students) and, MOST IMPORTANTLY, we had read somewhere that over 4,000 children die each day of water borne diseases. I have a sign in my classroom that states- "WHAT WILL YOUR CONTRIBUTION BE?" This question drives much of the instruction that takes place in my classroom and they certainly wanted to make a contribution.
In the six months they sold water, nobody ever once said, "Ms. GC, do we have to keep doing this every morning?" And, during the last days of school, I tried to tell them that during special school days and the last week of school that maybe they didn’t need to sell water so they could have a bit of a break, and they would look at me like I was crazy and say, “We can’t stop now! We can’t SKIP days!” They even came up with a teacher delivery service that had students delivering bottles of water to teachers’ desks before school if a teacher would buy a bottle a day for a month at a time.
Initially, the atmosphere in the district related to the project was certainly powerful and energetic, but I think the most significant change as time wore on was how SERIOUS we all became about this responsibility we had of trying to care for others. As we learned more and more about the DIRE needs and SERIOUSNESS of the water crisis, it became apparent to me, and I know others, how critical it was to never forget the reality of the people's lives in Africa that we were trying to affect. We were awed by this truly HUGE responsibility we had taken on (it wasn't just this "cool" project anymore), and humbled by what we were doing. They would actually reprimand each other when occasionally a student would be “late” at the water selling table!
The originating students (from one of the schools in Glastonbury) presented this to representatives from 5 other schools in Glastonbury (that were all bussed to that school by the supt.) in a Powerpoint Presentation they created when it was decided to expand the project to all the elementary schools in town. This effort connected all the students in the community with a common goal of buying and selling water for Africans. We did not email other schools, but they all hung posters, ran raffles (every time you buy a bottle of water, you get a ticket, at the end of the week a ticket is pulled and someone receives a free book) and created punchcards (buy 10 bottles and the principal will donate one), and many other incentives to get everyone excited!
RandomKid came into the picture after I saw the Frontline video with Trevor (RoundAbout creator for the PlayPump water system) and I posted my description of our project on the PBS Frontline website. Dana (RandomKid Director) and/or Trevor saw it and she contacted me in Connecticut (called me at school). We spoke and I agreed to take a look at RandomKid's mission and thought that our project was a great fit with what you are trying to achieve. I discussed our Superintendent in Glastonbury, and we agreed we would be honored to accept a contribution of $2500 from the sales in Iowa and California to help begin a national effort by schoolchildren to fund Playpumps, or other water related projects. We hope to continue to sell water and in turn, give back to additional pumps that RandomKid’s children raise money for in the future. (RandomKid has) worked with non-stop energy to create a nationwide movement and have created great momentum so far!
Saturday, August 11, 2007
I'm back from an absolutely INCREDIBLE, KID-AFFIRMING trip!! (Teacher/school affirming, too!)
This photo is of some of the South African children spinning on their newly installed PlayPump® water system that brings safe water to their community for the first time. (background on how all this came to be, here: www.randomkid.org/playpump.asp).
We were blown away to have been greeted by a marching band, half way down the street off school grounds. They led us in a big parade, holding banners that said things like, "Water is Precious," "Don't leave water running," and "Thank you RandomKid!" Then as we pull into the school grounds... there it was: THE PLAYPUMP! There were 15-20 children spinning around it--laughing and playing... and right near by was the big water tower holding their precious new, safe water supply, and the tap that gave them access to this fresh water. I immediately grabbed a hold of the round-a-bout, and helped the children get it spinning as fast as we could-- and it was thrilling to jump on and spin with them! Knowing that kids in the USA helped make this happen-- and they'd LOVE to be right there spinning with us! :)
Then the school put on the most incredible program. I believe it was the Vice Principal who got things going. And man! What a charismatic person! He had 700 children chanting, "VIVA RANDOMKID, VIVA!!! LONG LIVE RANDOMKID, LONG LIVE!" A side note-- they roll their "R's" and put so much passion into it, that I got goosebumps.
When I was introduced, I talked to the children about their power to change the world. When I said something like, "You are already changing the world-- with your sheer joy and energy that you put into playing on that pump, you are bringing safe water to your community!" This was met with HUGE cheers and chants ("AYE AYE AYE!!!") by the many adults of the community who were present. I told them about the children at each of the three schools and their unique stories. And I recorded the South African children as they shouted cheers for each of the schools, "Viva Glastonbury Viva! Viva The Academy Viva! Viva Portola Viva!" I plan to include those cheers on each of their DVDs on their opening day of school (each of the schools will be surprised on the first day with the announcement that together, with two other schools, they've achieved their goal, and the pump is already providing safe water to a community in South Africa). :)
Then another American teacher and I read statements from the American kids, and took turns with the South African Kids... they all started with, "Because of You..." A child from South Africa would get up, and read his or her statement, with great passion and exuberance.. Things like, "Because of you, I no longer have to miss school to go fetch water. I can get an education AND have water to drink and wash with." And then I'd read something from an American child like, "Because of you, I now realize just how precious water is, how blessed I am to have it, and to be sure not to waste it."
And then the choir sang. There are no words to describe the beauty of their music. It was transforming. Here we are--- outside their school in a big open space-- and yet somehow the acoustics were perfect, and the music was magical. So imagine my reaction as I'm listening to a song that their teacher recently composed:
Here are some of the lyrics:
WATER-- Where have you been? All our lives?
You are the source of all life.
We've been struggling, to find you--
We've been traveling-- long distances--
When there's nothing-- we have no food.
Now we're happy... cuz your here.
We enjoy playing games
When we pump all the day.
Thank you RandomKid-- you're so great!
It was BEAUTIFUL! I hugged the choir members, and by the time I got to the choir director, I realized how much I was crying, because my tears soaked her neck! :)
Then they presented me with the most beautiful banner made out of thousands and thousands of beads made by their elders in the community.
Then we got to play! They taught us some really cool South African games-- one that required a lot of strategic thinking, another that required great hand-eye coordination-- and then sort of a reverse- limbo-- rather than going under a pole, you jump over a rope-- and they do it with flair! :) We taught them "Duck, Duck, Goose"-- except they didn't know what a duck or a goose were... so I asked them the names of African birds... we went with "Nunyane" for the duck, and the other one sounded something like "Mala," I'm going to double check, because I know our teachers would love to share it with their students. Anyway-- imagine playing "Duck Duck Goose" with about 50-75 children! BIG circle! These kids ran with great speed and slid into "home base" as if they just hit a home run--dust flying everywhere-- and smiles from ear to ear.
I brought several of the bottles that the American kids designed, and got great photos and video of the children filling them up at the pump, and drinking their fresh water. I CAN'T WAIT for the children here in the USA to see that video on their first day of school! Can you imagine the reaction of these kids when they see a child they helped--drinking out of the bottle they designed?! Drinking the water that they helped provide?! Wow! :)
I just got back late Sunday night... and now I'm in the throes of trying to get everything ready for the big announcements at each of the schools:
I'll be sending them special artwork that is a combined effort of USA and South African kids....
AND-- I have an AWESOME surprise for each of the schools. I brought picture frame mattes with me, and had all the students sign them... so I'll have a 5 X 7 of the South African Children matted with their signatures and framed-- and sent to each of the schools.
I also have a surprise traveling exhibit for the schools-- I think it will start in Iowa-- since I"m going there for Talia's (RandomKid's 12-year old CEO) Bat Mitzvah-- I may do a presentation at The Academy there. Trevor Field, the inventor of the RoundAbout-- gave me a lovely replica of the PlayPump-- fashioned out of wire. We've seen a lot of traditional South African art made out of wire-- and this one actually has little wire children that spin on the roundabout! So I'll bring that, along with a BEAUTIFUL banner that was made by the elders in the community out of thousands and thousands of beads, complete with a border that is specific to their tribe (much like the Scottish have "crests" that symbolize their heritage).
In the midst of this-- I'm also wrapping up planning those 50 photo ops for the Katrina anniversary (we had our first one in TN yesterday: www.randomkid.org/tngov.asp) -- and having been gone a week, I'm still trying to get back in a groove.
Then maybe I can breathe a little -- and send you pics of my trips to "the bush." Among other things, I sat in an open-air Jeep just 20 ft away from a pride of 8 male lions! AMAZING!
P.S. If you think your church/school might be interested in helping bring water to water-stressed parts of the world, please have them visit: www.randomkid.org/water.asp.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Thank You
This is the letter I wrote to the Principal, Staff, Students and Community of Masana Primary School, where RandomKid recently funded a PlayPump so that their community may have access to a safe water supply. I hope it conveys just how much this community went out of it's way to celebrate this life-giving gift, that many of us in other parts of the world take for granted: Water.
---
(addressed to the principal, his staff and students)
On my long journey home from South Africa, I had many hours to reflect on that magical day: August 8th, when we celebrated the power of children to make the world a better place—and the teachers and community that supports them—and of course, the PlayPump, and it’s life-giving water. I tried many times to craft the perfect thank you letter in my head, but the truth is, there are no words that will do justice to convey how incredibly humbled and grateful I am to you, your staff, and your students for putting on nothing short of a spectacular day to celebrate RandomKid and the PlayPump.
In the joy and the magnitude of that great day, I was not able to learn everyone’s names, but I’d like to pass on my thanks:
To you and your staff that planned this magical day. You have left an indelible mark in my heart that will forever drive me to share your story, and implore others to get involved in helping their global community.
To the choir director and her choir—for the beautiful music they sang. I was particularly moved by the song she recently wrote about water. It was transforming.
To the gentleman who stood by the tables—helping organize the children to leave their thumbprints and signatures behind: He was so incredibly helpful. Those keepsakes will be treasured for many, many years to come!
To the lovely woman who introduced us to all the wonderful South African games—they were a joy to watch, and I know our students will love learning them!
To the woman in the beautiful traditional blanket, who made RandomKid the beaded banner—it is breathtaking. We will carefully display this treasure in a place of great honor.
To the gentleman who introduced everyone at the event, and had the children cheering, “Viva, RandomKid, Viva!” His enthusiasm was absolutely contagious. He is a gifted speaker and the children obviously love and respect him.
To the women who prepared the children’s food that day, as they do every day: You are a gift. That is a tremendous amount of work you do every day to make sure the children receive some nourishment.
And to the teachers—you wonderful teachers I have great admiration and respect for you. The children I met were bright, happy, respectful students. It was interesting to learn that some of the challenges you face are the very same that our American teachers face. Teaching can be a tough job—but the rewards in seeing your students go on to be productive citizens are priceless.
To the custodial staff, and all that helped set up for the presentation: Your school was sparkling. You had so many nice touches: From the tent for your guests, to the flowers on either side of the table, to the little garden in front of where the speakers spoke, and all the chairs that were needed for the event. It was clearly a lot of work—and all those extra touches made us feel SO special!
To all of the adults: I can’t thank you enough for taking a big part of your day for this celebration. I know you have a lot of work to do, and I was so humbled that you would go to such lengths for your guests. I can only hope that Masana’s students learned something on that day, and that they’ll continue to learn from a growing relationship with their new American friends.
And to all of your students: From the moment your marching band met our car in the street, and when some of you made room for me to spin on the RoundAbout PlayPump, I was yours! Thank you for helping with every part of this wonderful day. I saw you moving chairs and tables around, I listened to your beautiful music, I was impressed with your attentiveness and eagerness to play an important part of this day. Most of all—I loved the sheer joy you brought to this day. Your smiles and voices are engraved in my heart forever. I will never forget any one of you. Each one of you is unique and special. I hope you always remember that, and that you’ll work hard in school and make the most of your ideas, skills, and talents.
I want you to know that I am working hard to edit the video and photos together, to send to you, and also to share with the world. It is my hope that when people see just how much you celebrate the gift of water, and when they see the effort your students put in to playing on the pump, and the effort the American children put into selling bottled water to make more pumps possible—they will be DRIVEN by a force bigger than themselves to join in to eradicate the world’s water crisis. I believe Masana Primary may play a major part in inspiring its global community to join together to help one another. There are no words to properly thank you for that.
I was moved when I noticed that our celebration took place on 08/08. The number eight, when turned on its side, is the symbol for infinity. I believe the goodness of that day will resonate throughout infinity.
Humbly and gratefully yours,
Anne Ginther
President
RandomKid
---
(addressed to the principal, his staff and students)
On my long journey home from South Africa, I had many hours to reflect on that magical day: August 8th, when we celebrated the power of children to make the world a better place—and the teachers and community that supports them—and of course, the PlayPump, and it’s life-giving water. I tried many times to craft the perfect thank you letter in my head, but the truth is, there are no words that will do justice to convey how incredibly humbled and grateful I am to you, your staff, and your students for putting on nothing short of a spectacular day to celebrate RandomKid and the PlayPump.
In the joy and the magnitude of that great day, I was not able to learn everyone’s names, but I’d like to pass on my thanks:
To you and your staff that planned this magical day. You have left an indelible mark in my heart that will forever drive me to share your story, and implore others to get involved in helping their global community.
To the choir director and her choir—for the beautiful music they sang. I was particularly moved by the song she recently wrote about water. It was transforming.
To the gentleman who stood by the tables—helping organize the children to leave their thumbprints and signatures behind: He was so incredibly helpful. Those keepsakes will be treasured for many, many years to come!
To the lovely woman who introduced us to all the wonderful South African games—they were a joy to watch, and I know our students will love learning them!
To the woman in the beautiful traditional blanket, who made RandomKid the beaded banner—it is breathtaking. We will carefully display this treasure in a place of great honor.
To the gentleman who introduced everyone at the event, and had the children cheering, “Viva, RandomKid, Viva!” His enthusiasm was absolutely contagious. He is a gifted speaker and the children obviously love and respect him.
To the women who prepared the children’s food that day, as they do every day: You are a gift. That is a tremendous amount of work you do every day to make sure the children receive some nourishment.
And to the teachers—you wonderful teachers I have great admiration and respect for you. The children I met were bright, happy, respectful students. It was interesting to learn that some of the challenges you face are the very same that our American teachers face. Teaching can be a tough job—but the rewards in seeing your students go on to be productive citizens are priceless.
To the custodial staff, and all that helped set up for the presentation: Your school was sparkling. You had so many nice touches: From the tent for your guests, to the flowers on either side of the table, to the little garden in front of where the speakers spoke, and all the chairs that were needed for the event. It was clearly a lot of work—and all those extra touches made us feel SO special!
To all of the adults: I can’t thank you enough for taking a big part of your day for this celebration. I know you have a lot of work to do, and I was so humbled that you would go to such lengths for your guests. I can only hope that Masana’s students learned something on that day, and that they’ll continue to learn from a growing relationship with their new American friends.
And to all of your students: From the moment your marching band met our car in the street, and when some of you made room for me to spin on the RoundAbout PlayPump, I was yours! Thank you for helping with every part of this wonderful day. I saw you moving chairs and tables around, I listened to your beautiful music, I was impressed with your attentiveness and eagerness to play an important part of this day. Most of all—I loved the sheer joy you brought to this day. Your smiles and voices are engraved in my heart forever. I will never forget any one of you. Each one of you is unique and special. I hope you always remember that, and that you’ll work hard in school and make the most of your ideas, skills, and talents.
I want you to know that I am working hard to edit the video and photos together, to send to you, and also to share with the world. It is my hope that when people see just how much you celebrate the gift of water, and when they see the effort your students put in to playing on the pump, and the effort the American children put into selling bottled water to make more pumps possible—they will be DRIVEN by a force bigger than themselves to join in to eradicate the world’s water crisis. I believe Masana Primary may play a major part in inspiring its global community to join together to help one another. There are no words to properly thank you for that.
I was moved when I noticed that our celebration took place on 08/08. The number eight, when turned on its side, is the symbol for infinity. I believe the goodness of that day will resonate throughout infinity.
Humbly and gratefully yours,
Anne Ginther
President
RandomKid
Thursday, August 9, 2007
RandomKid Goes to Africa!
by Anne Ginther, President of RandomKid
I'm posting this slightly in advance of a big announcement. I risk spoiling a surprise... but I'm hoping the children we're working with are too busy getting back into the groove at school, that they won't be surfing the net for stuff like this. If you know one of the children involved, please don't spoil it for them. The kids we've been working with don't yet know that they've raised enough money to purchase a PlayPump® water system in a South African Village. They'll learn the news on the 29th, 30th, and 31st --depending on which school they attend. And they'll learn that not only have they funded a pump, but that it has already been installed. The town of Marble Hall and surrounding community of Fairview in South Africa FOR THE FIRST TIME has access to safe water--thanks to the children of RandomKid's water project!
Click here to read about the community our PlayPump® water system now serves.
Click here to read about my trip.
Click here to read my thank you letter to Masana Primary School. It will give you an idea as to the incredible lengths this community went to, in order to celebrate this gift of water.
I'm posting this slightly in advance of a big announcement. I risk spoiling a surprise... but I'm hoping the children we're working with are too busy getting back into the groove at school, that they won't be surfing the net for stuff like this. If you know one of the children involved, please don't spoil it for them. The kids we've been working with don't yet know that they've raised enough money to purchase a PlayPump® water system in a South African Village. They'll learn the news on the 29th, 30th, and 31st --depending on which school they attend. And they'll learn that not only have they funded a pump, but that it has already been installed. The town of Marble Hall and surrounding community of Fairview in South Africa FOR THE FIRST TIME has access to safe water--thanks to the children of RandomKid's water project!
Click here to read about the community our PlayPump® water system now serves.
Click here to read about my trip.
Click here to read my thank you letter to Masana Primary School. It will give you an idea as to the incredible lengths this community went to, in order to celebrate this gift of water.
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