Join us for a lovely evening at the Songea Soirée!
Michael,
We are kicking off our annual giving season, a special time for reflection and generosity, and to consider the opportunities we have to make a difference in the world.
You're Invited to the Songea Soirée!
Join us on October 26th, from 6-9 PM at the Marriott Redmond Town Center for an unforgettable evening of giving. Enjoy a delicious wine and appetizer reception, a plated dinner, decadent desserts, and exciting silent and live auctions.
This year's theme, "Expanding Horizons," reflects our commitment to providing these children with opportunities to achieve their potential in life. Our special speakers, Cary Young of the Sammamish Rotary, and Lisa Parkinson of our Songea's Kids Board, will share insights from their recent trip to Tanzania on the "expanding horizons" of Hope Village and the children we sponsor. We hope to see you there!
Preview the Auction
The Circle of Giving: Our Travelers Experience Tanzanian Generosity
Our recent travelers to Tanzania returned with a profound message about the true spirit of giving. They arrived in Tanzania bearing gifts of soccer balls, frisbees, jump ropes, and handmade quilts for the children. In the gracious Tanzanian tradition of reciprocity, the children and their caretakers welcomed our travelers with gifts of their own. Families living in poverty generously shared what they had, offering melons, bananas, and even chickens! By the end of the day, 44 chickens had been donated by the villagers, and are now residing in the new Hope Village chicken house. These hens will lay eggs, providing both income and nutrition for the children.
The Power of a Giving Community: Rebuilding Renfreida's Home
During another heartwarming moment on our trip, our travelers visited Renfreida's home. Renfreida, a young girl in our child sponsorship program, had lost her home during a devastating storm. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we were able to rebuild her home. The students from our Hope Village Masonry Vocational Training Program volunteered their time and skills to construct a new and sturdy home for her. The photos below capture the contrast between the rubble of her old home and the beautiful new structure. Pictured are Nashon Kikalao, CEO of our partner organization, HVO, and Renfreida standing proudly in front of the new home. To the right, Renfreida enjoys the comfort of her new bed.
Beyond the Donation: Ways to Maximize Your Giving
Did you know that there are several ways to increase the impact of your giving to Songea's Kids and to ensure that your sponsored child continues to receive your support over time? Below are a few examples.
Employer Matching: Do you work for Microsoft, Boeing or another company that matches charitable donations? You can double your gift by submitting to your employer! Some employers also provide a match for time time you spend volunteering. See what your employer offers: Employer Matching Programs
Local Community Matches: Do you shop at Fred Meyer? If so, you can register Songea's Kids as your preferred charity and each time you shop, Songea's Kids will receive a percentage of your purchase as a donation. Just enter our EIN # 51-0649064. Learn more and sign up here: Fred Meyer Community Giving
Legacy Giving: Offers a meaningful way to ensure your generosity continues to make a difference in the lives of children in need. By leaving a legacy gift for Songea's Kids, you can make a lasting impact on the lives of children in need and create a brighter future for generations to come. Your financial advisor and estate attorney can provide guidance tailored to your wishes.
Thank You for Making a Difference!
We're so grateful for your continued support and for being a part of our community. With your help, we know we can continue to make a real impact on the lives of the orphans, vulnerable children and their communities. We hope to see you at the Soiree on October 26!
Sincerely,
Sherie Valderrama, President
SONGEA'S KIDS
