For those of you who still read the blog, I thought it would be important to stay active in explaining the process we are going through in our attempt to close the home. (If this sentence is a shock to you, please scroll down and read the last entry before continuing.)
Kami and I are both back in the states now in Portland, OR. Although it is so good to see friends and family and be able to email many of you freely, we are far from feeling peace about the situation we left.
The problem is that the home, under Sam's direction is not a place of safety and family for all the children. Its important to note that most of the children feel very happy and content there, receive good education and that we simply joined a home that Sam already had in place, doing all we could to bring stability and love to the kids. The painful part was that as we worked with the kids trying always to show God as a father who will never leave them and always loves them whether they have felt that in their lives or not, the girls had a father figure who was taking advantage of them sometimes nightly. They received a completely different message of what a "father" meant and the conditions that were in place if they wanted security.
Unfortunately, Dorcas Children's Home is not an entity with Sam only as the director. It is a group of buildings built on his land, under his foundation and with a board of men powerless to make decisions against Sam because legally he owns everything. In that understanding, we simply can't ask Sam to step down and have the work continue. The home is his project and part of the idealism in the situation before we knew this was happening was that we, as so many people before us, were happy to join a man's work that required him to invest everything he owned. Because it was a personal calling to him, he had put all his assets into the home, but over time, it became his way to have the life he wanted, with constant support from outside, visitors from around the world, chances to travel, and sadly, and ability to have girls when he wanted them.
Because of this, Dorcas Children's Home cannot keep moving forward. Unless Sam was willing to sign the land and ownership over to others as signatories on the NGO (Non-government organization) and let the home continue as an independent organization as it is supposed to be, the home can't continue.
Right now, Kami and I have no contact with Sam and plan to keep it that way. However, men from Horizon International are doing their best to work with the board, and Sam to see what is possible. The role Kami and I play is an intimate knowledge of the home and the way Uganda works and the requirements the country has on organizations like DCH. (We inadvertently gained this knowledge in going through many of the hoops in planning the music tour.)
For now, please continue to pray for the children and that God will work, as He has all year, in this situation.
We will keep you updated as it goes along.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
With the greatest sorrow...
It is with the greatest sorrow that we write to you the following letter. After working here in Uganda for 10 months with Sam Mutabaazi and the children of Dorcas Children's Home, we have learned of a line of corrupt behavior which works directly against the full mission of the home. Both in years past and in the time we have spent here we have discovered that Sam Mutabaazi has been sexually misusing female workers and girls under his care. In his position of power, he manipulates females in this home leading them to believe their provision and livelihood depend on pleasing him. This is a gross misuse of power that even in this culture is looked down upon and thought of as morally evil, not to mention, highly illegal.
We have carefully and prayerfully worked in seeking to know if these accusations were true, and do not give our testimony lightly, understanding how destructive this information is to so many people's lives. We have nothing to gain from writing this letter to you and everything to lose for through it, we compromise the work we have done through out the year, and our plans to continue working with a home we have come to love. But, it is our moral obligation to make a stand for what is just and right, and let those who have invested so much faith and monetary support be aware of what has been taking place in secret for so many years.
We first came to know about Sam's conduct through a close friend of ours and niece to Sam. After months of a friendship, she began to confide in us about the sexual misconduct at the home pleading for us to help, or at least speak to the girls about their rights. Sharing a close friendship with Sam, and believing him to be a moral man, we struggled with this information knowing that rumors and false accusations are commonplace in Uganda. We did speak to the girls about their God-given right of choice and personal control of their body. Throughout the year, Kami read nightly through a book based on Hosea's wife, seeking to show God's redemptive love to those who have been used and mistreated, and the beauty they contain within themselves. We wanted each of the girls to know that even in a male-dominated society they still had great worth and always had a choice, especially when it came to how they would use their own bodies.
As the months went on we began to see certain things that bothered us. First, whenever Juliet, a 16 year-old who had been on the streets as a prostitute came home from boarding school, she lived in Sam's room. Sam often allows many of the children to sleep in his room and keeps his door open, so as strange as this seems, we did not think too much of it at the time. But, one day as Chris went into the room, he found Sam wearing no clothes, moving to cover himself and Juliet re-clothing herself. First, let us make it very clear that no sexual misconduct was seen, but enough of an implication was left for us to begin taking stock in the stories we had been hearing.
In the same period, our former matron asked Kami if it was normal to have to sleep with an employer to keep one's job, telling Kami this was the normal situation in Uganda. She was soon there after let go.
In the last two months, as we began to become more concerned about this situation and constantly prayed for truth, more people revealed the same information about Sam, including former volunteers on two separate occasions, former boys who had lived in the home, workers, and current children.
The following lines are the way they have come to place:
During the last holiday, when our oldest boy returned from boarding school, he confided in Kami about concerns that his girlfriend (a teacher at our primary school near his age) was being unfaithful. One day he came to Kami in tears telling her what he had found. Sam had given her a phone (a donation we had received from a church) and on the phone were messages from Sam asking her to sleep with him, confessing love and affection and wanting her to come to him. She admitted to accepting invitations to go to the Sauna with Sam. Our oldest boy was heartbroken looking to us for advice on what he should do in a situation like this.
We decided to talk to our cook and matron individually, explaining them our concerns and asking them to be honest with us about Sam's conduct with them. They both explained that “yes Daddy did tell them in their interview he would ask them from time to time to sleep with him, and had many times, but if they refused, as long as they continued to work hard, he would not fire them.” They both thought this was something not too serious, and said they refused to sleep with him regularly. We pressed them explaining it was something to be taken very seriously and asked them about his conduct with the young girls at the home (12-16 years old.) They replied that the girls just needed to know that Daddy wouldn't force them and to say no. They said, “that the problem rested in them lacking maturity to know they could say 'no'.” They also told us several of the girls had come to them upset about Daddy trying to kiss them or touch them inappropriately, and did not want to bring food into his room.
At this time we were also planning for the music tour and received emails from a former volunteer, warning us of deception in the past and refusing to support Sam because of his manipulation and many moral reasons.
On two separate occasions, the first in 2001, and the second only just over a year ago, the same sexual misconduct accusations were brought against Sam resulting in the volunteer's names being ruined in Uganda, cut sponsorship, and many of the boys leaving or being sent away from the home. We had heard stories of both, but in each, we had heard they were people trying to take over the home and tarnish Sam's name for their own benefit.
But, recently, we have learned this was not the case:
After hearing more and more stories about Sam, and having only prayer to rely on, we went to seek advice from a missionary here in Uganda, who has worked in this country for over 40 years. Before we even explained the struggle we were having, he informed us he was fully aware of Sam's sexual misconduct from previous volunteers in 2001. He knew them personally and said they thought the world of Sam and faithfully worked with him until they found that he was sleeping with many of the girls. Being powerless without proof, they attempted to take pictures and ascertain specific evidence without avail. Unless the girls testified against Sam themselves, nothing would happen. But, because of Sam's power in Uganda, and the fear for their lives being ruined, the girls would say nothing until the volunteers ensured them they would be taken care of and gave each money so they could sustain a livelihood without Sam. 20 females came forward against Sam and he fled arrest for over a year. When he returned, he was imprisoned for two weeks and then all charges were dropped.
(We do not have any evidence for bribery or unlawful conduct) but we do know from workers and family that Sam had a very nice house in Kampala before this trial, and after his release no longer owned the house.
Whatever happened in the situation, Sam was released, the volunteers were forced to leave, and any boys Sam thought might have supported the volunteers were sent away.
A very close friend of ours who lives in the village recently confided in us that he had been living at the home during this time. He explained that all the boys at the home knew it was taking place and anyone Daddy suspected as a threat to him, including this boy, were sent away.
We had also known of a girl taking boys from the home in the past. We believed on Sam's word she was deranged and sleeping with some of the boys and had wanted to start a home for herself to get money. He told us she gave each of the boys a kiss on the mouth and told them to leave with her in the middle of the night.
From former volunteer letters, we learned that they too had been accused of sleeping with the boys as well. So, anytime volunteers have begun to suspect Sam of misconduct, their names have been tarnished and smeared. (As if a long line of volunteers have brought money in, worked here selflessly and then tried to destroy the home for their own gain.)
Recently, we have heard the true story of this woman: She, like us, was working here and fell in love with the children, and then discovered the sexual misconduct that was taking place. Without any proof or any power, she asked her father for money to rent a building and took as many boys as would leave away in the night. Many of these boys still live in the home she started today.
And then we learned even more devastating news. This had happened only September 2007! When Sam came to America in early November to meet us and seek support, almost all sponsorship had been lost for unexplained reasons.
Instead of being skeptical, based on Sam's story and moral demeanor, plus the urgent need the children were in, we jumped in with both feet and began raising the necessary support for the home.
This was 12 months ago. From that time until now, we have been working tirelessly to provide the best situation possible for this home. All money has gone directly through us and been accounted for since our arrival and because financial corruption was the main fear we concerned ourselves with, we felt confident in asking for your faith and support in this home. Daily, weekly, and monthly we have met with Sam and lived with the children being apart of all functions in the home, accounting for each and trying to the best of our ability to maintain complete transparency. In wanting to see this home continue for many years into the future and assist Sam in his retirement, we both agreed to stay on past our year commitment, offering not just years, but a commitment of our life, whether stateside or here to sustain this home and help these kids grow into well-balanced adults. For all of these reasons, when we began to learn the truth, it was the most devastating blow of our lives, shaking us to our core.
But we felt that a strong enough friendship had grown with Sam and that if we approached the situation in love, and complete forgiveness, we could work through the situation. We saw the only real option was to accept his requests that we take over the home, help work towards his retirement, provided that he stepped down and removed all girls from under his care. It was the hardest decisions of our lives and both of us spent days and nights in prayer trying to understand the responsibility of what we were undertaking. But, our affirmation came in our love for the kids, and the commitment we have that no girls should live under such oppression, fear or abuse. We knew that if we informed sponsors before talking with him, Sam would not even listen.
Our talk with Sam went as badly as we could have conceived. We told him that we loved him, offered our forgiveness but had to bring these things to light. He had spoken to us continuously about standing up for what was right and just, and because he was misusing his power and doing what was morally corrupt in the eyes of both man and God, we told him we held firmly that it had to stop. If he would allow us to work towards his retirement and raise money for the sustainment of the home for the following year, we would help him in whatever ways we could. It was not about us or him, but about these children and the work that is so valuable. He did not consider what we said for a moment. A change came over his eyes and in second he went from seeing us as friends and instead saw us only as threats. He demanded proof and for us to bring any girl before him that would say he had touched her. We told him we would not speak to him of any girl, nor would we say any names. We also would not go to the police. We were here as his friends. He refused and said we could prove nothing. At this, we told him the only other option was to make all sponsors aware of what was happening, and what kind of lifestyle the director of the home they were supporting was living. His eyes grew even darker and he rose from the bed screaming repeatedly for us to get out of his room, and that he was not a pauper and did not need us.
We both left the conversation deeply hurt. But, we needed to continue to try. We spoke again the next day. This conversation was much more calm, but even more damaging. In a very diplomatic, but manipulative way he explained that he was not doing what people were accusing him of, and played on our emotional connection to the children asking us to stay until our agreed upon times. He brought up things people had told him about us, saying children had spread lies or accused us of misconduct too, and should he believe them? Should he tell the sponsors? In every way, he turned the conversation on us and put the children before him like a shield. Kami and I could say nothing. We knew the truth, and now watched him lie to us and try and manipulate the situation to his favor.
We left and again were at a loss. We love these children. We did not want to leave them and were completely powerless in the situation. Sam owns all the land and the buildings, and the board here in Uganda are made up of his friends. He knows the president personally and many judges, and both times that we knew people had brought these charges against him before, they had failed and were forced to leave, their names tarnished and their reputations ruined in the country. We prayed daily. We asked for God to show us a clear path. After two weeks, we found to our horror that his behavior had increased. He had sent messages, which we saw ourselves, telling teachers and workers he would provide them with a full month of food if they would sleep with him, and our cook, whose room lies adjacent to the girls' reported Sam continually entering their room late at night for extended periods of time.
And finally, we found out that Sam told his daughter (who is completely unaware of any of the misconduct) we had been spreading lies about him, and that he would let the situation quiet down and let us keep raising money for the home and the kids, and once we left, not allow us back.
We have been manipulated with children as leverage. Sam has used them to deflect the actual child and women sex crimes. This has happened to all those who have worked here in the past.
We have evaluated all sides of the problem but find ourselves completely powerless. No girls will stand against Sam and he will not be brought to justice by Ugandan law. Bribery and corruption are apart of all levels of government, and even missionaries and mentors have made it known to us that there is no judge that cannot be paid off in Uganda.
Our only ability to stop this misuse of power is to bring Sam's addiction into the light and make it known to you who support this man and his home.
We know that the children, who are innocent, are caught in the crossfire, but Sam's lies and manipulation of sponsors spreads even to his stories about these children. In trying to understand what steps to take, we have found that only 5 of the children left in the home are actually from the streets of Kampala but have reached the age of adulthood. We have also discovered that every child in the home has living relatives or parents they can live with. (They may not be great situations, but they are not destitute or starving and still have options for education.)
For us to continue in this capacity, we would only be supporting his lifestyle, and allowing ourselves to be manipulated further.
It is with the deepest pain we offer this request:
PLEASE STOP SUPPORTING DORCAS CHILDREN'S HOME.
We can assure you that the money you have sent has gone to the children's welfare and neither Sam, nor we, received any salary from your money. When we return, we will send out an end of the year report listing every donation received and where the money was spent. Sam's position and power has allowed him to act in these malicious ways, and it is this we are trying to stop, not the caring for of these children.
Although to leave them is the hardest thing either of us has ever had to do, we have found some peace in understanding that God took care of them for many years before we arrived and will continue to do so afterward. They will be cared for.
Lastly, we need to ask you above all things, to not lose hope or faith in doing what is good in the world. We ask that you continue to love and support good works despite the possibility of deception. Deceit exists everywhere, and there are always men and women who will use the innocence of others to feed their greed. It is this exact reason we can never stop doing what is right, continually seeking to care for and love those in need, especially children.
Pray for these children. Pray for the work going on all over the world. And never stop supporting those who are going to do this work.
We understand how much pain this letter will cause and that you may have many questions you need answered.
We will be returning to the states within the month. Kami will be returning within the next couple of weeks and Chris will be staying in Uganda until the end of the month. In this way, we can answer your question in person, over the phone or through email. We have asked you to have a great deal of faith in us and the work that has been going on, so we will work in every way possible to answer or meet any needs you have for us, whether stateside through Kami, or here in Uganda through Chris.
With the deepest appreciation for your love and support,
Chris & Kami
christopherandrewwest@gmail.com
kamicoy@gmail.com
We have carefully and prayerfully worked in seeking to know if these accusations were true, and do not give our testimony lightly, understanding how destructive this information is to so many people's lives. We have nothing to gain from writing this letter to you and everything to lose for through it, we compromise the work we have done through out the year, and our plans to continue working with a home we have come to love. But, it is our moral obligation to make a stand for what is just and right, and let those who have invested so much faith and monetary support be aware of what has been taking place in secret for so many years.
We first came to know about Sam's conduct through a close friend of ours and niece to Sam. After months of a friendship, she began to confide in us about the sexual misconduct at the home pleading for us to help, or at least speak to the girls about their rights. Sharing a close friendship with Sam, and believing him to be a moral man, we struggled with this information knowing that rumors and false accusations are commonplace in Uganda. We did speak to the girls about their God-given right of choice and personal control of their body. Throughout the year, Kami read nightly through a book based on Hosea's wife, seeking to show God's redemptive love to those who have been used and mistreated, and the beauty they contain within themselves. We wanted each of the girls to know that even in a male-dominated society they still had great worth and always had a choice, especially when it came to how they would use their own bodies.
As the months went on we began to see certain things that bothered us. First, whenever Juliet, a 16 year-old who had been on the streets as a prostitute came home from boarding school, she lived in Sam's room. Sam often allows many of the children to sleep in his room and keeps his door open, so as strange as this seems, we did not think too much of it at the time. But, one day as Chris went into the room, he found Sam wearing no clothes, moving to cover himself and Juliet re-clothing herself. First, let us make it very clear that no sexual misconduct was seen, but enough of an implication was left for us to begin taking stock in the stories we had been hearing.
In the same period, our former matron asked Kami if it was normal to have to sleep with an employer to keep one's job, telling Kami this was the normal situation in Uganda. She was soon there after let go.
In the last two months, as we began to become more concerned about this situation and constantly prayed for truth, more people revealed the same information about Sam, including former volunteers on two separate occasions, former boys who had lived in the home, workers, and current children.
The following lines are the way they have come to place:
During the last holiday, when our oldest boy returned from boarding school, he confided in Kami about concerns that his girlfriend (a teacher at our primary school near his age) was being unfaithful. One day he came to Kami in tears telling her what he had found. Sam had given her a phone (a donation we had received from a church) and on the phone were messages from Sam asking her to sleep with him, confessing love and affection and wanting her to come to him. She admitted to accepting invitations to go to the Sauna with Sam. Our oldest boy was heartbroken looking to us for advice on what he should do in a situation like this.
We decided to talk to our cook and matron individually, explaining them our concerns and asking them to be honest with us about Sam's conduct with them. They both explained that “yes Daddy did tell them in their interview he would ask them from time to time to sleep with him, and had many times, but if they refused, as long as they continued to work hard, he would not fire them.” They both thought this was something not too serious, and said they refused to sleep with him regularly. We pressed them explaining it was something to be taken very seriously and asked them about his conduct with the young girls at the home (12-16 years old.) They replied that the girls just needed to know that Daddy wouldn't force them and to say no. They said, “that the problem rested in them lacking maturity to know they could say 'no'.” They also told us several of the girls had come to them upset about Daddy trying to kiss them or touch them inappropriately, and did not want to bring food into his room.
At this time we were also planning for the music tour and received emails from a former volunteer, warning us of deception in the past and refusing to support Sam because of his manipulation and many moral reasons.
On two separate occasions, the first in 2001, and the second only just over a year ago, the same sexual misconduct accusations were brought against Sam resulting in the volunteer's names being ruined in Uganda, cut sponsorship, and many of the boys leaving or being sent away from the home. We had heard stories of both, but in each, we had heard they were people trying to take over the home and tarnish Sam's name for their own benefit.
But, recently, we have learned this was not the case:
After hearing more and more stories about Sam, and having only prayer to rely on, we went to seek advice from a missionary here in Uganda, who has worked in this country for over 40 years. Before we even explained the struggle we were having, he informed us he was fully aware of Sam's sexual misconduct from previous volunteers in 2001. He knew them personally and said they thought the world of Sam and faithfully worked with him until they found that he was sleeping with many of the girls. Being powerless without proof, they attempted to take pictures and ascertain specific evidence without avail. Unless the girls testified against Sam themselves, nothing would happen. But, because of Sam's power in Uganda, and the fear for their lives being ruined, the girls would say nothing until the volunteers ensured them they would be taken care of and gave each money so they could sustain a livelihood without Sam. 20 females came forward against Sam and he fled arrest for over a year. When he returned, he was imprisoned for two weeks and then all charges were dropped.
(We do not have any evidence for bribery or unlawful conduct) but we do know from workers and family that Sam had a very nice house in Kampala before this trial, and after his release no longer owned the house.
Whatever happened in the situation, Sam was released, the volunteers were forced to leave, and any boys Sam thought might have supported the volunteers were sent away.
A very close friend of ours who lives in the village recently confided in us that he had been living at the home during this time. He explained that all the boys at the home knew it was taking place and anyone Daddy suspected as a threat to him, including this boy, were sent away.
We had also known of a girl taking boys from the home in the past. We believed on Sam's word she was deranged and sleeping with some of the boys and had wanted to start a home for herself to get money. He told us she gave each of the boys a kiss on the mouth and told them to leave with her in the middle of the night.
From former volunteer letters, we learned that they too had been accused of sleeping with the boys as well. So, anytime volunteers have begun to suspect Sam of misconduct, their names have been tarnished and smeared. (As if a long line of volunteers have brought money in, worked here selflessly and then tried to destroy the home for their own gain.)
Recently, we have heard the true story of this woman: She, like us, was working here and fell in love with the children, and then discovered the sexual misconduct that was taking place. Without any proof or any power, she asked her father for money to rent a building and took as many boys as would leave away in the night. Many of these boys still live in the home she started today.
And then we learned even more devastating news. This had happened only September 2007! When Sam came to America in early November to meet us and seek support, almost all sponsorship had been lost for unexplained reasons.
Instead of being skeptical, based on Sam's story and moral demeanor, plus the urgent need the children were in, we jumped in with both feet and began raising the necessary support for the home.
This was 12 months ago. From that time until now, we have been working tirelessly to provide the best situation possible for this home. All money has gone directly through us and been accounted for since our arrival and because financial corruption was the main fear we concerned ourselves with, we felt confident in asking for your faith and support in this home. Daily, weekly, and monthly we have met with Sam and lived with the children being apart of all functions in the home, accounting for each and trying to the best of our ability to maintain complete transparency. In wanting to see this home continue for many years into the future and assist Sam in his retirement, we both agreed to stay on past our year commitment, offering not just years, but a commitment of our life, whether stateside or here to sustain this home and help these kids grow into well-balanced adults. For all of these reasons, when we began to learn the truth, it was the most devastating blow of our lives, shaking us to our core.
But we felt that a strong enough friendship had grown with Sam and that if we approached the situation in love, and complete forgiveness, we could work through the situation. We saw the only real option was to accept his requests that we take over the home, help work towards his retirement, provided that he stepped down and removed all girls from under his care. It was the hardest decisions of our lives and both of us spent days and nights in prayer trying to understand the responsibility of what we were undertaking. But, our affirmation came in our love for the kids, and the commitment we have that no girls should live under such oppression, fear or abuse. We knew that if we informed sponsors before talking with him, Sam would not even listen.
Our talk with Sam went as badly as we could have conceived. We told him that we loved him, offered our forgiveness but had to bring these things to light. He had spoken to us continuously about standing up for what was right and just, and because he was misusing his power and doing what was morally corrupt in the eyes of both man and God, we told him we held firmly that it had to stop. If he would allow us to work towards his retirement and raise money for the sustainment of the home for the following year, we would help him in whatever ways we could. It was not about us or him, but about these children and the work that is so valuable. He did not consider what we said for a moment. A change came over his eyes and in second he went from seeing us as friends and instead saw us only as threats. He demanded proof and for us to bring any girl before him that would say he had touched her. We told him we would not speak to him of any girl, nor would we say any names. We also would not go to the police. We were here as his friends. He refused and said we could prove nothing. At this, we told him the only other option was to make all sponsors aware of what was happening, and what kind of lifestyle the director of the home they were supporting was living. His eyes grew even darker and he rose from the bed screaming repeatedly for us to get out of his room, and that he was not a pauper and did not need us.
We both left the conversation deeply hurt. But, we needed to continue to try. We spoke again the next day. This conversation was much more calm, but even more damaging. In a very diplomatic, but manipulative way he explained that he was not doing what people were accusing him of, and played on our emotional connection to the children asking us to stay until our agreed upon times. He brought up things people had told him about us, saying children had spread lies or accused us of misconduct too, and should he believe them? Should he tell the sponsors? In every way, he turned the conversation on us and put the children before him like a shield. Kami and I could say nothing. We knew the truth, and now watched him lie to us and try and manipulate the situation to his favor.
We left and again were at a loss. We love these children. We did not want to leave them and were completely powerless in the situation. Sam owns all the land and the buildings, and the board here in Uganda are made up of his friends. He knows the president personally and many judges, and both times that we knew people had brought these charges against him before, they had failed and were forced to leave, their names tarnished and their reputations ruined in the country. We prayed daily. We asked for God to show us a clear path. After two weeks, we found to our horror that his behavior had increased. He had sent messages, which we saw ourselves, telling teachers and workers he would provide them with a full month of food if they would sleep with him, and our cook, whose room lies adjacent to the girls' reported Sam continually entering their room late at night for extended periods of time.
And finally, we found out that Sam told his daughter (who is completely unaware of any of the misconduct) we had been spreading lies about him, and that he would let the situation quiet down and let us keep raising money for the home and the kids, and once we left, not allow us back.
We have been manipulated with children as leverage. Sam has used them to deflect the actual child and women sex crimes. This has happened to all those who have worked here in the past.
We have evaluated all sides of the problem but find ourselves completely powerless. No girls will stand against Sam and he will not be brought to justice by Ugandan law. Bribery and corruption are apart of all levels of government, and even missionaries and mentors have made it known to us that there is no judge that cannot be paid off in Uganda.
Our only ability to stop this misuse of power is to bring Sam's addiction into the light and make it known to you who support this man and his home.
We know that the children, who are innocent, are caught in the crossfire, but Sam's lies and manipulation of sponsors spreads even to his stories about these children. In trying to understand what steps to take, we have found that only 5 of the children left in the home are actually from the streets of Kampala but have reached the age of adulthood. We have also discovered that every child in the home has living relatives or parents they can live with. (They may not be great situations, but they are not destitute or starving and still have options for education.)
For us to continue in this capacity, we would only be supporting his lifestyle, and allowing ourselves to be manipulated further.
It is with the deepest pain we offer this request:
PLEASE STOP SUPPORTING DORCAS CHILDREN'S HOME.
We can assure you that the money you have sent has gone to the children's welfare and neither Sam, nor we, received any salary from your money. When we return, we will send out an end of the year report listing every donation received and where the money was spent. Sam's position and power has allowed him to act in these malicious ways, and it is this we are trying to stop, not the caring for of these children.
Although to leave them is the hardest thing either of us has ever had to do, we have found some peace in understanding that God took care of them for many years before we arrived and will continue to do so afterward. They will be cared for.
Lastly, we need to ask you above all things, to not lose hope or faith in doing what is good in the world. We ask that you continue to love and support good works despite the possibility of deception. Deceit exists everywhere, and there are always men and women who will use the innocence of others to feed their greed. It is this exact reason we can never stop doing what is right, continually seeking to care for and love those in need, especially children.
Pray for these children. Pray for the work going on all over the world. And never stop supporting those who are going to do this work.
We understand how much pain this letter will cause and that you may have many questions you need answered.
We will be returning to the states within the month. Kami will be returning within the next couple of weeks and Chris will be staying in Uganda until the end of the month. In this way, we can answer your question in person, over the phone or through email. We have asked you to have a great deal of faith in us and the work that has been going on, so we will work in every way possible to answer or meet any needs you have for us, whether stateside through Kami, or here in Uganda through Chris.
With the deepest appreciation for your love and support,
Chris & Kami
christopherandrewwest@gmail.com
kamicoy@gmail.com
Sunday, October 26, 2008
In Gods Hands
This is the hardest work Kami and I have ever done. Somedays there is so much need and we feel pulled so tight, we wonder what we got ourselves into. But, we are constantly reminded in moments of peace that it is also the most defining experience either of us have encountered trying every part of us. The most difficult problem is always trying to run a two homes and 3 schools on half the money fully needed. But, this is also one of the most rewarding experiences because it constantly puts us in the hands of God, completely reliant on his care. It is the situation of every organization in countries all over the world in this line of work: too much need and not enough support. But, every month for 10 months now, we have seen God take care of this home. Because of complications already mentioned, it had been 6 weeks without money when the monthly sponsorship came in Oct. 10th. And this was 1/3 of the amount we needed to make it through the month. Kami and I had both had individuals wanting to help sending money at times through our bank accounts and when the money ran out, we went to take the last bit of donation out of Kami's bank. It was getting very late and we had to go to a bank in the middle of the city. Kami put her card in, and I watched her face from outside the glass door grow frustrated and then helpless. The bank had feared her card had been comprimised and took it, saying a new card would be sent to her parent's address in Oregon. Suddenly, we were in the middle of the city, had no money to get home or for the home, and after 10 months of this life were pretty frustrated. We both walked a good ways and then a boda (motorcyle taxi) picked us up and said he would take us home. We told him we didn't have money and he said he didn't mind (he might have been an angel, we still don't know). We had spent the previous Sunday with a girl who was traveling through Uganda by herself spending her birthday with her and spoke with a lady she had met that weekend. This lady then went to Jinja and met two Norwegian girls who had come to Uganda with a program to teach, but found their jobs were in posh schools for the country's elite rather than children in need. They were looking for a place they could really invest. The lady we had spoken to for just minutes told them about us, they called, we picked them up and they came. They will be with the home for 6 weeks and brought money in for their stay and to help. Their names are Mira and Reuden and are fabulous. They love the kids and are helping us so much. It was such an answer to prayers. But it didn't stop. They had met a man for one evening while they stayed in a hostel who told them he and his girlfriend had raised 500 Euros to give to an orpahange. He came out days after they arrived and stayed with us for one night. After 3 hours at the home, he told us it was the place he wanted to donate the money. So sweet. We went from being in the middle of the city with no money, in more of a struggle then the home has been since we came to two volunteers and two donations within the same week. We know how many people pray for the home, and above all things, have seen how powerful it is in sustaining this home. Thank-you so much to all of you who keep us in your thoughts and prayers. The impact the home is having on these kids lives astounds even us.
Only one more month of school left! Which also means Kami has only 5 weeks left here! We both can't believe it. The children doing tests say they feel like they are doing well and the rest of the children all had mid-terms this week. I just finished administering mid-terms to every class which means I have a lot grading to do this weekend...kids think teachers have no homework...we have there's times the amount of kids in each class! So if your in school and reading this, do your homework. Everyone who was sick is healthy, our dog Fifi just had another liter of puppies (5 weird shaped hairballs we know will be cute in a few weeks) and the gardens and home looks beautiful.
Were so excited for the election and have an all night election party to attend with close friends in Kampala where we will sit and watch live what you are watching in the evening. Its going to be crazy close!
Happy Halloween this week. The razor blade in the apple was an urban myth so eat away kids.
We love you guys and will see you sooner than any of us think.
Only one more month of school left! Which also means Kami has only 5 weeks left here! We both can't believe it. The children doing tests say they feel like they are doing well and the rest of the children all had mid-terms this week. I just finished administering mid-terms to every class which means I have a lot grading to do this weekend...kids think teachers have no homework...we have there's times the amount of kids in each class! So if your in school and reading this, do your homework. Everyone who was sick is healthy, our dog Fifi just had another liter of puppies (5 weird shaped hairballs we know will be cute in a few weeks) and the gardens and home looks beautiful.
Were so excited for the election and have an all night election party to attend with close friends in Kampala where we will sit and watch live what you are watching in the evening. Its going to be crazy close!
Happy Halloween this week. The razor blade in the apple was an urban myth so eat away kids.
We love you guys and will see you sooner than any of us think.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Trying to bring the pearly gates to the pearl of Africa
Hello from the Pearl of Africa. First, as always it seems, we must apologize for the elapsed time since our previous update. We are currently running on full cylinders in so many areas that to stop and report on all of it is both difficult in trying to encapsulate all of it, and also in trying to understand how transparent to be. With three schools and two homes, new needs arising every day, and a seemingly always depleted box to pull resources or money out of, we walk daily on a reliance of God and a struggle not to lose our minds.
So where to begin. With the bore-hole breaking and car collision both occurring in August we dropped behind a month's budget. Our current situation, which we hope to change in the time we return to the states, is a meager one; always just barely making it through each month looking back and asking how we did it. We live month to month on the sponsorship and aid you who support the home offer and like most families in the world, try to budget needs over wants providing for them the best we can, but watching so many fall through the cracks because we simply don't have the money. Its a headache, but we remind ourselves that this is the current position all over the world, and we certainly didn't think we would be living the high life in offering our time to work in a 3rd world country. It seems the state of the world to have more need than the resources to meet it. Or, perhaps the resources are simply misappropriated, either way, millions go hungry every day and millions have more need than can be met. Above all things though, there is a paradox in the need that develops offering a hunger and reliance on God deeper than ever before. Verses showing God as a provider speak loudly as comforts and there is a beauty in finding peace in him for the ability to provide daily meals.
Money ran out over two weeks ago and only through the grace of God have we been able to keep the home going. Your prayers are needed. They are powerful and they do bring help, so please keep offering them for the children and work going on here.
In the last post, we discussed the music tour. As stated, when the doors starting opening for it to happen, and advice from those who have worked in Africa for several decades showed us how much benefit a tour can have on the children's lives and in raising awareness and support for the home, we began taking steps to make it a reality. The constant prayer that Kami and I asked was for two things: that God would speak through people we trusted to show us whether or not to continue, and for him to close doors if it was not the right time. In response to feedback we have had from people we trust, and in looking at the current situation of the home, and of course the struggling economy in the states and all over Europe, we have decided that it is not the appropriate time for this kind of tour. When we are struggling to make it through each month, to raise money for a tour seems unethical (whether the tour's purpose is to bring in support or not.) It seems more appropriate to work through many of the volunteers who have brought up ideas for raising support, organizations and churches who have wanted to join in the mission, and other encounters we have made to find a sustainable income for the home through out the following year. If this is in place, then we can begin work on a music tour.
But, we are extremely content with all the benefits our work on the tour has already brought us. First, in beginning the work, both Kami and I saw the need for us to continue in this capacity at least for the following year and in whatever need follows. In short, we are still planning on returning and working here next year. Second, it opened many doors and excitement in churches and individuals not only for the music tour but in looking towards ways to be apart of the home in the future. It also prompted us to get paperwork and background documents on the children which has allowed us to begin a full filing system of each of their history's (two nurses from Tennessee are performing physicals and filling out medical sheets on the kids next week to add to those files). It has opened up doors to us in several levels of the government including passports, immigration, district officials and several others. And all of the work started can easily be continued even if it is some time down the road.
The rain continues to pour at least once a day, bringing booming vegetation, deep greens and lush gardens all around us. Each of the teachers, besides a salary are given a room to live in and a their own plot of land to grow food on. With these added to the gardens of the home, the compound looks beautiful. The rain brings with it sickness and more of the children have fallen ill recently but quickly recovered. I was down for a few days with a bad cold and chills, but also am feeling better.
There are so many struggles and so many rewards in work like this. On one hand there is the stress of money, meeting needs, budgets, paying workers, and directing the home, and on the other is watching kids grow up in front of you, bring home good reports from class and learn to tell time on a hand watch. There are chores and laughs, morning rituals before school, wrestling matches, singing and dancing, hide-and-go-seek and kick the can. There are hard times and trials which lead to such rewards in the good events and successes.
And there is the continual and never ending struggle to let go of ourselves and find that in giving them up we find such better lives in place. And yet, even when learned, the next day it is a struggle again.
The impossible and never-ending letting go.
So where to begin. With the bore-hole breaking and car collision both occurring in August we dropped behind a month's budget. Our current situation, which we hope to change in the time we return to the states, is a meager one; always just barely making it through each month looking back and asking how we did it. We live month to month on the sponsorship and aid you who support the home offer and like most families in the world, try to budget needs over wants providing for them the best we can, but watching so many fall through the cracks because we simply don't have the money. Its a headache, but we remind ourselves that this is the current position all over the world, and we certainly didn't think we would be living the high life in offering our time to work in a 3rd world country. It seems the state of the world to have more need than the resources to meet it. Or, perhaps the resources are simply misappropriated, either way, millions go hungry every day and millions have more need than can be met. Above all things though, there is a paradox in the need that develops offering a hunger and reliance on God deeper than ever before. Verses showing God as a provider speak loudly as comforts and there is a beauty in finding peace in him for the ability to provide daily meals.
Money ran out over two weeks ago and only through the grace of God have we been able to keep the home going. Your prayers are needed. They are powerful and they do bring help, so please keep offering them for the children and work going on here.
In the last post, we discussed the music tour. As stated, when the doors starting opening for it to happen, and advice from those who have worked in Africa for several decades showed us how much benefit a tour can have on the children's lives and in raising awareness and support for the home, we began taking steps to make it a reality. The constant prayer that Kami and I asked was for two things: that God would speak through people we trusted to show us whether or not to continue, and for him to close doors if it was not the right time. In response to feedback we have had from people we trust, and in looking at the current situation of the home, and of course the struggling economy in the states and all over Europe, we have decided that it is not the appropriate time for this kind of tour. When we are struggling to make it through each month, to raise money for a tour seems unethical (whether the tour's purpose is to bring in support or not.) It seems more appropriate to work through many of the volunteers who have brought up ideas for raising support, organizations and churches who have wanted to join in the mission, and other encounters we have made to find a sustainable income for the home through out the following year. If this is in place, then we can begin work on a music tour.
But, we are extremely content with all the benefits our work on the tour has already brought us. First, in beginning the work, both Kami and I saw the need for us to continue in this capacity at least for the following year and in whatever need follows. In short, we are still planning on returning and working here next year. Second, it opened many doors and excitement in churches and individuals not only for the music tour but in looking towards ways to be apart of the home in the future. It also prompted us to get paperwork and background documents on the children which has allowed us to begin a full filing system of each of their history's (two nurses from Tennessee are performing physicals and filling out medical sheets on the kids next week to add to those files). It has opened up doors to us in several levels of the government including passports, immigration, district officials and several others. And all of the work started can easily be continued even if it is some time down the road.
The rain continues to pour at least once a day, bringing booming vegetation, deep greens and lush gardens all around us. Each of the teachers, besides a salary are given a room to live in and a their own plot of land to grow food on. With these added to the gardens of the home, the compound looks beautiful. The rain brings with it sickness and more of the children have fallen ill recently but quickly recovered. I was down for a few days with a bad cold and chills, but also am feeling better.
There are so many struggles and so many rewards in work like this. On one hand there is the stress of money, meeting needs, budgets, paying workers, and directing the home, and on the other is watching kids grow up in front of you, bring home good reports from class and learn to tell time on a hand watch. There are chores and laughs, morning rituals before school, wrestling matches, singing and dancing, hide-and-go-seek and kick the can. There are hard times and trials which lead to such rewards in the good events and successes.
And there is the continual and never ending struggle to let go of ourselves and find that in giving them up we find such better lives in place. And yet, even when learned, the next day it is a struggle again.
The impossible and never-ending letting go.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
The long, but important update.
After a few months of work without full disclosure Kami and I thought it was about time to divulge our future plans both for our lives and for the sustainment of this home.
When we first came, we both had dedicated 1 year, hoping to help those who need love and gain understanding on what Christ's asks each of us to do. We both had plans for after our time here, but quite a few things have changed for us in the last months.
Right now, our minds are focused on two things; the love we have found in working with these children and the long term sustainment of the home to continue this work for many more who will need help in the future.
We have seen God work actively, opening up doorways for us in all levels of the Ugandan government including the educational, financial, and immigration depts, as well as in the states with many individual people, churches, as well as groups like Blue Earth Farms wanting to get involved with this work. It has gone so much past just this home, but transitioned into us longing to be apart of a movement of people going to the sick, the marginalized and the least of these in the world.
Our place, for now, we feel is here working in this capacity.
Our primary purpose is to stay until the home is sustainable on all ends including financially, agriculturally, structurally, and in directorship, with Sam needing to retire.
So here is where we are:
Kami and I both have been planning on returning in January. Unfortunately, her flight could not be changed so she will now be returning in Dec. while I return in Jan. However sad this makes her (she definitely shed quite a few tears to have to leave the kids so early) it actually is a blessing because of what we are currently working on...
For everyone who doesn't know...we have begun planning a music tour for next year. Understandably, the idea to most seems incredibly naïve, and far too massive of an undertaking for us (and we did share this thought while it was still in conceptional form,) but let us explain:
Kami and I have been running the accounts of the home this year, and been going over the home's budget through out the years before we came. Currently, caring directly or educationally for over 50 children through the home in Kampala and the one in Kunungu village, with three schools, over 20 workers to keep them all going, and the constant everyday needs that come with raising children, the home needs around $3,000 USD. Through individual sponsorship and self-sustaining projects in place, we are receiving just over $1000 USD each month. We see two things from this. For us to only begin to understand the situation months before we left, and through word of mouth to have so many of you who support kid's lives join us in the work to bring in that much money each month is a true blessing. And, in light of the deficit each month, rather then dismay, we see it as such a beautiful tribute to the way God carries this home each month. God doesn't make money fall from the sky when his people are in trouble. He answers their prayers through other willing believers (and non believers) who have a heart for those in need. Although so difficult at times, in looking back over the last 9 months Kami and I are both moved to tears when we discuss the random traveler that came, fell in love with the kids and began raising money, for those who came for one night or a few weeks, went directly home and raised money through their church, for long time sponsors who heard about trouble and through one prayer breakfast raised money to meet needs immediately, for college students to bring money, gifts, support and ready-to-work hands to be with us, and then went home and are still working with us in support and planning for the future of the home. The list goes on and on with some people only hearing about the work second hand in another's conversation or address and emailing us to send money, letters,and supplies. Each month, the 2,000 dollar deficit has been met.
The only thing Kami and I have to boast in after the year we have been experiencing is the way God works through the lives of those who devote themselves to him.
This deficit still remains though and will continue to exist as the work moves forward and expands.
We have been praying and wrestling all year with ideas on how to meet this need. If we did return and raise the money for next year, when January came around again, the home would be back in the same situation. And even more, although we are satisfied in the work we are able to do through the home, we are living in a environment of absolute need, with millions more in this country and the ones surrounding it filled with young and old with no hope for life, let alone education. We will never be satisfied, nor should any of us, while we have the ability to help and offer nothing.
Our answer is to share the story with not only hundreds but thousands, and to do so, first hand allowing the kids from these situations, whose lives, smiles and voices sing everyday of hope be apart of affecting their own future through their God-given gifts.
We have sent out letters to many of you explaining the tour in full. If you have not received one, please forgive us, email us and ask for one to know all details.
The quick version is that we are currently working on passports and visas for the kids, as they during every school break and Saturday work with a famous Ugandan composer and songwriter (who luckily is a good friend of Sams') learning traditional African dances, instruments, and drumming. For the first months while at home, Kami and I will be raising the needed funds for plane tickets, and traveling through the country setting up shows through churches, groups, schools, venues and the traveling details between each. (Massive undertaking we know, but after what we have been doing for 9 months, we feel ready to handle anything) The kids will join us in the states during their first holiday break and for 4-6 weeks will tour the country sharing the story of the home, their lives and the many lives still desperately in need. In one month's time, the children will gain information and education that will last them a life-time through staying with invidual families, meeting their sponsors face to face, and coming to new understandings such as seeing there is poverty, homelessness and brokenness in the United States just like everywhere else. (Seeing mountains and snow for the first time, a flushing toilet or the inconceivable idea that we can cook dinner in less the 15 minutes.)
We want to open the eyes of thousands; to have them look at their children, know the life they want for them and to say, “I'm going to do the same for one more that has no hope.” We want people to see either how simple it is to invest in one child's life here by supporting their care and education , or be inspired to join the work themselves whether its here or in raising support or ideas there.
Stories move us. Hope moves us. Changed lives that show both let us see the story of Christ's grace better than through any other lens we know.
If you would like to be apart of the tour, to help in any way or to kindly remark its a horrible idea, please email us.
For now, we are moving forward with it, putting full trust in God for its success or failure. Either way, we are sure he will take care of this home and guide us in our work.
We love you all very much. We miss home from time to time but are so happy in the work.
When we first came, we both had dedicated 1 year, hoping to help those who need love and gain understanding on what Christ's asks each of us to do. We both had plans for after our time here, but quite a few things have changed for us in the last months.
Right now, our minds are focused on two things; the love we have found in working with these children and the long term sustainment of the home to continue this work for many more who will need help in the future.
We have seen God work actively, opening up doorways for us in all levels of the Ugandan government including the educational, financial, and immigration depts, as well as in the states with many individual people, churches, as well as groups like Blue Earth Farms wanting to get involved with this work. It has gone so much past just this home, but transitioned into us longing to be apart of a movement of people going to the sick, the marginalized and the least of these in the world.
Our place, for now, we feel is here working in this capacity.
Our primary purpose is to stay until the home is sustainable on all ends including financially, agriculturally, structurally, and in directorship, with Sam needing to retire.
So here is where we are:
Kami and I both have been planning on returning in January. Unfortunately, her flight could not be changed so she will now be returning in Dec. while I return in Jan. However sad this makes her (she definitely shed quite a few tears to have to leave the kids so early) it actually is a blessing because of what we are currently working on...
For everyone who doesn't know...we have begun planning a music tour for next year. Understandably, the idea to most seems incredibly naïve, and far too massive of an undertaking for us (and we did share this thought while it was still in conceptional form,) but let us explain:
Kami and I have been running the accounts of the home this year, and been going over the home's budget through out the years before we came. Currently, caring directly or educationally for over 50 children through the home in Kampala and the one in Kunungu village, with three schools, over 20 workers to keep them all going, and the constant everyday needs that come with raising children, the home needs around $3,000 USD. Through individual sponsorship and self-sustaining projects in place, we are receiving just over $1000 USD each month. We see two things from this. For us to only begin to understand the situation months before we left, and through word of mouth to have so many of you who support kid's lives join us in the work to bring in that much money each month is a true blessing. And, in light of the deficit each month, rather then dismay, we see it as such a beautiful tribute to the way God carries this home each month. God doesn't make money fall from the sky when his people are in trouble. He answers their prayers through other willing believers (and non believers) who have a heart for those in need. Although so difficult at times, in looking back over the last 9 months Kami and I are both moved to tears when we discuss the random traveler that came, fell in love with the kids and began raising money, for those who came for one night or a few weeks, went directly home and raised money through their church, for long time sponsors who heard about trouble and through one prayer breakfast raised money to meet needs immediately, for college students to bring money, gifts, support and ready-to-work hands to be with us, and then went home and are still working with us in support and planning for the future of the home. The list goes on and on with some people only hearing about the work second hand in another's conversation or address and emailing us to send money, letters,and supplies. Each month, the 2,000 dollar deficit has been met.
The only thing Kami and I have to boast in after the year we have been experiencing is the way God works through the lives of those who devote themselves to him.
This deficit still remains though and will continue to exist as the work moves forward and expands.
We have been praying and wrestling all year with ideas on how to meet this need. If we did return and raise the money for next year, when January came around again, the home would be back in the same situation. And even more, although we are satisfied in the work we are able to do through the home, we are living in a environment of absolute need, with millions more in this country and the ones surrounding it filled with young and old with no hope for life, let alone education. We will never be satisfied, nor should any of us, while we have the ability to help and offer nothing.
Our answer is to share the story with not only hundreds but thousands, and to do so, first hand allowing the kids from these situations, whose lives, smiles and voices sing everyday of hope be apart of affecting their own future through their God-given gifts.
We have sent out letters to many of you explaining the tour in full. If you have not received one, please forgive us, email us and ask for one to know all details.
The quick version is that we are currently working on passports and visas for the kids, as they during every school break and Saturday work with a famous Ugandan composer and songwriter (who luckily is a good friend of Sams') learning traditional African dances, instruments, and drumming. For the first months while at home, Kami and I will be raising the needed funds for plane tickets, and traveling through the country setting up shows through churches, groups, schools, venues and the traveling details between each. (Massive undertaking we know, but after what we have been doing for 9 months, we feel ready to handle anything) The kids will join us in the states during their first holiday break and for 4-6 weeks will tour the country sharing the story of the home, their lives and the many lives still desperately in need. In one month's time, the children will gain information and education that will last them a life-time through staying with invidual families, meeting their sponsors face to face, and coming to new understandings such as seeing there is poverty, homelessness and brokenness in the United States just like everywhere else. (Seeing mountains and snow for the first time, a flushing toilet or the inconceivable idea that we can cook dinner in less the 15 minutes.)
We want to open the eyes of thousands; to have them look at their children, know the life they want for them and to say, “I'm going to do the same for one more that has no hope.” We want people to see either how simple it is to invest in one child's life here by supporting their care and education , or be inspired to join the work themselves whether its here or in raising support or ideas there.
Stories move us. Hope moves us. Changed lives that show both let us see the story of Christ's grace better than through any other lens we know.
If you would like to be apart of the tour, to help in any way or to kindly remark its a horrible idea, please email us.
For now, we are moving forward with it, putting full trust in God for its success or failure. Either way, we are sure he will take care of this home and guide us in our work.
We love you all very much. We miss home from time to time but are so happy in the work.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
The new libraray and play room. (Other bookshelf not shown) Thanks Laura!
Maps and Glue\\\\= wallpaper
Miquel & Dasha...our new friends from Spain and Cheq Republic...they found us online and showed up to help love the kids for a few weeks.
Every afternoon around 3 on the dot, the clouds look like this...The rainy season is like a timed sprinkler here. Ask me if it will rain today? Yup
Miquel & Dasha putting on a language lesson...English, Luganda, Cheq and Spanish translations. The kids did muy bien.
These were some of the pictures taken from Miquel and Dasha's camera.
More pictures from our computer of the holiday events coming soon...as soon as we learn why what went wrong with the internet browser.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Another holiday is coming to a close. This one was pretty long and with the time being the same back home, it feels like we are ending summer...when instead we are now heading into the 3rd and final school term. By now, Kami and I are seasoned teachers...which means very little...and the kids are set in their school routine for the year. This week will be there first back. Some of the older kids who have hard tests at the end of the year are pretty nervous (Meme in P7 getting ready for High school, and Muhammad in S.6 getting ready to graduate) Yet, it really does feel like the end of summer. So much happened during this holiday. The wedding with all its guests. Joe working witht the kids and heading back for school. Kevin Dyne coming to stay and work with the kids. And of course Laura...who came for the last month and was gracious closer. Joe came and helped more than Kami and I ever could have believed, teaching, bringing music, and helping on every area of need the home had including taking every bit of slack in my absense during my trip home. Kevin came in for several weeks and spent time the kids, helped paint and contributed to the home in the same gentle, quiet support he offers everywhere he goes. Laura came in and decided she was going to do in a month as much as anyone else would do in 6. With her help, we completely re-designed and re-built our library turning it into a cold, dark room, into the brightest, most welcoming room in the complex, with books in order, a blue carpet, bright colored walls, painting the kids got to help on, stools, and a table. Its a perfect place to do homework this next term and the kids love it. (This computer is incredibly slow, but we will have pictures up within a few days.) She also took all the kids swimming, which was an out of this world experience, since some had never been around water, let alone swam in it. She re-organized Kami's and my room, taught the kids how to paint, taught gutair lessons like Joe, helped in the kitchen, supported Kami in a million girl things I don't know about including someone of the same sex just to talk to. And, if none of this was not enough, with her help she organized a paint project each of the kids got to contribute to. The picture is two bannana trees, cut into 25 squares, each painted individually showing the kids' personalities...which is now being sent to New York for a benefit art show to raise money for the home.
And so the home keeps moving. Kami and I continually thank God for what he does through this home, and who he brings here. In this one holiday alone, several massive projects have begun, Joe brought new life, Kevin came and helped, Laura opened her heart and pulled everyone along with it, we had hardship, a broken borehole, a head-on collision in the car, lack of money, found money, so many sponsors shower me with support when I returned, and send boxes of supplies for Kami and the kids, pictures, new lessons, new friendships...and so much more.
We are so blessed to be apart of this work. The kids are thankful everyday for the food, the activities, the lessons and companionship. They are held, read to, loved and played with.
And none of it would be possible without your continual support. So, always, thank you.
And so the home keeps moving. Kami and I continually thank God for what he does through this home, and who he brings here. In this one holiday alone, several massive projects have begun, Joe brought new life, Kevin came and helped, Laura opened her heart and pulled everyone along with it, we had hardship, a broken borehole, a head-on collision in the car, lack of money, found money, so many sponsors shower me with support when I returned, and send boxes of supplies for Kami and the kids, pictures, new lessons, new friendships...and so much more.
We are so blessed to be apart of this work. The kids are thankful everyday for the food, the activities, the lessons and companionship. They are held, read to, loved and played with.
And none of it would be possible without your continual support. So, always, thank you.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Pictures!
Fetching water right before the re-construction of the bore hole. A huge thanks to the sponsors who pitched in to save us from a huge water emergency! It should be completed by Saturday.
Traditional dancers from the Laos tribe at Rachel's wedding.
The road leading to Kampala City School
Students at Kampala City school studying in a skeleton of a classroom. With many prayers and support, we will be adding onto the school to build more rooms and finish this one.
Traditional dancers from the Laos tribe at Rachel's wedding.
The road leading to Kampala City School
Students at Kampala City school studying in a skeleton of a classroom. With many prayers and support, we will be adding onto the school to build more rooms and finish this one.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Rain before the Sun
Life seems to always come in cycles. The rainy season has begun again, and this time the weather seems to match the state of the home. With the weather suddenly dropping in temperature, over half of the kids have become sick in one way or another, and everyone included Kami and myself have been dealing with conditions from colds to flu. Since the wedding the car has been in a head on collision, the borehole (our villages main sorce of water) has broke, we've had problems with 3 of our 4 staff members to the point of having to suspend 2 of them for a month, a temporary shortage in food has developed, and several other problems have arose. But as always, they are things that happen when running a home, and we see God's faithfulness and blessing everyday. Kevin Dyne from Portland, OR came to visit the home and spend time with the kids. Laura Peters, from Vancouver, Candada came in for a month and helped in many areas, including re-doing our entire library, bringing loads of art supplies and giving the kids lessons, as wells as putting together an art project, which is going to be sent to a benefit art show in New York. The work is a tree broken into 25 parts, each painted different by individual kids and then brought together for a beautiful mosiac. She is also in the process of helping us paint a mural on the entire wall in the sitting room for the kids. We will post pictures soon! A couple also some how found the home and came to work with us for around 10 days. Their names are Miquel and Dasha (probably spelt the names wrong and apologise for doing it) but there story is amazing. Miquel is from Spain, while Dasha is from the Cheq Republic, and both of them met through their company based in London. They have only seen each other for two weeks in the last 9 months of a relationship through phone calls and emails, but together they quit their jobs and are traveling through Africa for 3 months to help in areas they can, but also just to learn and explore the cultures and get closer to one another. There on a proper adventure, and have been such a blessing to have at the home. Sam's health has been good, but unfortunately now his wife Dorcas' has grown worse so please pray for her.
So its another month. Mishaps, downfalls, and struggles, new faces, new work and new blessings. The constant ebb and flow of an African orphanage. We seem to be on a proper adventures ourselves.
So its another month. Mishaps, downfalls, and struggles, new faces, new work and new blessings. The constant ebb and flow of an African orphanage. We seem to be on a proper adventures ourselves.
Monday, August 18, 2008
The Wedding festivities have come to a close
Traditional dancers welcomed the procession of honored guests, the groom, bride's attendants, and bride to be. Lovely ladies in their traditional wear of wrapped dresses tied up like bows. Dashing men in their robes. There was the brushing bride. Speech after speech after speech. Gift after gift after gift. Did you know if you get a bride in Uganda you receive many gifts with her? Yes you do have to give up a few cows, sodas, jerrycans of cooking oil, etc...
Everyone here at Dorcas has been working tirelessly to make the wedding for Sam's daughter, Rachel, a success. A new fence went up, trees were cut, compound was spotless, hair was done, barrels of water were fetched. 50+ family guests stayed at the home. Not even kidding you. Pans 2 feet deep and 3 feet in diameter filled with matoke, rice, beans, and meat cooking over firewood.
After 6 to 7 hours of the introduction wedding, it was time to dance. A disco was available to all the guest and was taken full advantage of until 5 am. Dancing with the kids was so fabulous! And yes...I taught them a thing or two about shaking what my mama gave me.
The more “western” wedding was Saturday. Wedding and reception went from 11 am until 10 pm. Absolutely beautiful. Way too long but beautiful. More traditional dance took place from the Laos tribe which was great to be able to decifer from the Buganda tribal dance that took place on Friday.
Today is the recover day. Many visitors are still here at the home from Kanungu. A trip is planned to go into town with them. Many of the people from Kanungu (a remote village in Southwest Uganda) have never seen the city with all its splendor.
Joe will be leaving on Wednesday as Chris comes back to us. Please keep them in your prayers.
Ooooo. My camera, the last existing camera here at Dorcas, was broken a week ago in a laughing fest with the boys so pictures will be few and far between for awhile. Please keep with us. I'll sketch what is going on....?
Everyone here at Dorcas has been working tirelessly to make the wedding for Sam's daughter, Rachel, a success. A new fence went up, trees were cut, compound was spotless, hair was done, barrels of water were fetched. 50+ family guests stayed at the home. Not even kidding you. Pans 2 feet deep and 3 feet in diameter filled with matoke, rice, beans, and meat cooking over firewood.
After 6 to 7 hours of the introduction wedding, it was time to dance. A disco was available to all the guest and was taken full advantage of until 5 am. Dancing with the kids was so fabulous! And yes...I taught them a thing or two about shaking what my mama gave me.
The more “western” wedding was Saturday. Wedding and reception went from 11 am until 10 pm. Absolutely beautiful. Way too long but beautiful. More traditional dance took place from the Laos tribe which was great to be able to decifer from the Buganda tribal dance that took place on Friday.
Today is the recover day. Many visitors are still here at the home from Kanungu. A trip is planned to go into town with them. Many of the people from Kanungu (a remote village in Southwest Uganda) have never seen the city with all its splendor.
Joe will be leaving on Wednesday as Chris comes back to us. Please keep them in your prayers.
Ooooo. My camera, the last existing camera here at Dorcas, was broken a week ago in a laughing fest with the boys so pictures will be few and far between for awhile. Please keep with us. I'll sketch what is going on....?
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
The Road Home: Good and Bad
Hello Everyone. On Monday the 4th, I went to leave Seattle to head back to Uganda and was met with a terrible surprise. The date of my ticket had been entered wrong, and with it being a specialty ticket (at a lower fair) the stipulations involved stated that if I didn't show up or notify the airline before the date of my departure, the ticket (both there and back) would be come invalid. I spent 6 hours on the phone Monday between the airline and booking agency and ended the afternoon so tired and unsure of what to do that I simply sat on the floor of a friends house, unable to move.
I had trunks packed as tightly as they could go, fresh cookies for the kids, money to bring back to the home to further the work over the next few months, presents for the kids from many of you as sponsors, an anxiousness to see them and suddenly I had no way to get there. I was utterly heartbroken. I called Kami and told her the situation, and as we talked, we both understood that somehow it was in God's hands.
Although this is a little more in depth, than some of our other posts, the state I found myself in going back to Uganda was a hard one. Both Kami and I have been dealing with things and responsibilities we have never encountered before this year and it has been extremely overwhelming to us both in the best way. We have had to live daily on the guidance and assurance of God to accomplish the work, or at times, just to make it through the strenuousness of the day. But part of that foundation for me has been slipping for some time, and even the time I hoped for some peace in coming home, as wonderful as it was to see friends and share stories, as well as speak easily and passionately about the home and work with many of you because it is our entire life right now, I found no time to be alone and almost not a single moment to rest. Although I was excited to return to the kids, I felt like I was returning almost a shell knowing the work that needed to be done and easily caring for family we have found in Uganda, but not being founded.
And then, I was on the ground of a friend's home, with no ticket home. Although it was devastating at first, somehow in prayer through out the evening and into the night, I found a sense of peace that there was a reason for this.
The next morning I posted a blog that I needed help in returning and within two hours, 3 people had already called and offered support. But, one lady, who deserves to be placed in the echelons of the highest realms of service, and to whom I am eternally grateful, told me to find the ticket and tell her the price, and she would take care of the rest. Because of fuel prices and the continual upswing, the only reasonably priced ticket was 12 days out.
Although this is hard for me to bear, with how much I miss the kids and long to be with them, Kami, and the rest of the home again, this was a unasked prayer that God saw in me. There are walls we all reach at times in our lives, and I certainly have been at one for some time now, overwhelmed without enough time to be at peace and understand it. It seems these days are a gift to finally stop, and find the heart of God again, in which we all move, and find our strength. As I do though, one of the continuos prayers I would like to share with you is such thankfulness to how many of you contacted me while I was at home and privately wrote a check for the work, or went to the stores and bought supplies, or brought sheets for the kids, underwear, a computer for the home, gifts and cards for Kami as she continues the work with Joe in Uganda and repeatedly asked how you can do more for the kids individually. It filled me with such an immense thankfulness to hear how many of you have been praying for us, and reading our updates and remembering us while we felt so far from home.
My trip back has reaffirmed the love so many of you have for these kids, for those who are marginalized in the world, and also for your love for us personally, which continuously strengthens us to continue working.
You are in our prayers as well. May God bless and keep you, prompt you when you are needing to serve, and give you rest when you are weary.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
did you know they advertise for quick weight gain and bigger hips?
After much help from Joe, Camila, and the rambunctious boys we finished painting the apartments.
Kampala City School students... aren't they so studious?
they hit a bird with a rock. with a rock. can your child throw with this aim?
sunset. acacia tree. monkey within.
fabulous joseph finishing the veranda... thanks to our sponsors!We are headed to Kanungu for a 4 day trip.
Recent news:
The boys were sent for their haircuts and the most amazing thing ever is...
Their favorite part of the week cost 1,500 Shillings, Mango Day equal to less than one dollar.
A cool cat named Kevin is coming to work at the home for a week or so.
We are anxiously waiting for his arrival.
Future plans for the home and schools are taking shape,
much work needs to take place and thanks to all of you...
these words continue to be true, "We can do the work we love instead of work in order to do what we love."
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
It's my turn.
I, Joe Hedrick, have the privilege and joy of joining the dynamic duo.
As the blog already states, Chris has officially left for the states.
At this moment, Kami and I are borrowing internet from a Hotel downtown Kampala.
Random Updates!!!
Sam's daughter, Rachel, just had her dowery, so now all the anticipation for the wedding in August. The boys were so cute in their best dressed.
Money continues to find its way right when we need it. It is so amazing to be on this side of things, where I don't just read about it on the blog but feel the pressure of bills and loans building. Then BAM, God does His thing and laughs.
And tomorrow is the beginning of life full time.
No Chris to hold my hand in front of all the city school children.
He has done such a fantastic job with the senior school... they love and will miss him.
Poor Kami left to drag little ol' me around and get me into shape.
Pray that she doesn't kill me.
I am so thankful she is so stinkin patient.
This is a picture of Hanny.
He is a Senior 5 student who lives in our village.
I met him waiting outside our room wanting to talk to Kami. Since then we have hung out almost every night. He has such an amazing heart. He loves football and is such an incredible artist. Within a week of being at the home, we started guitar lessons. He works with our children all the time, teaching them art and helping with homework. His heart is set on going to Lipscomb University someday.
One of the biggest struggles here is this fear that everyone you meet just wants a visa or money.
Sadly, we don't have that kind of power. Hanny is the first person I've met that loves and gives to me without any intent on getting in return.
The reason for his picture!!!
Hanny makes the most fabulous necklaces I have ever seen.
They are made from recycled paper... I have no idea how he does it, but we realized the possibilities once we saw his work. So we have sent a bag full of them with Chris to the states.
Women, get them while they are hot.
Men, get them for your women while they are hot.
The price on these suckers are going to sky rocket, these things will be on high demand before you can say, "holy kiss a monkey on the lips."
The cool part about these necklaces is what it supports.
The money goes to support the home as well as Hanny.
SO not only are they recycled (Mother Nature nods her head) but God will bless you with a thousand good feelings!!!
So, email Chris: christopherandrewwest@gmail.com
Price for now will be a suggested $10 donation... but the work alone is worth more so you judge. See the picture below for the effects of these beads.
For the first time ever, love to all of you back in the states.
Life here is a blast. The boys are so inspiring.
Kami is working her butt off and thanks all of you for your supports.
Sponsors: be on the look out for a suprise?!
Sola bulungi?
Sunday, July 6, 2008
July Visit
During the month of July Chris will be in Portland to do some work stateside for the home and be in Chad Turner's wedding.
If you are sponsoring a child and want to send any letters, pictures or donations to them, please email them to:Chris West
5319 SE 69th Portland OR 97215
If anyone else would like to make any contributions to the home, please send them accordingly.
We love you all.
Monday, June 30, 2008
For All the Sponsors! And anyone else...
Chris will be returning to Oregon on July 11th. He is flying home to be in his friend's wedding, but will also use the time to do some of the work we want to accomplish for the home stateside. If you have letters you want to send the kids (they want to hear back from you) or pictures, any resources, anything you think your child would want, we will post an address in the next few days and Chris will be able to bring all of it back to the home on the plane.
For those of you who read the blog and aren't necessarily supporting a specific child and would like to help, this would be a perfect chance to do it as well. Old clothes, donations for pens, pencils, school supplies, shoes, or anything else you can think of would all be greatly appreciated. He will return Aug 4th and pack as many bags or trunks as needed.
THANK-YOU FOR ALL YOU HAVE ALREADY DONE AND CONTINUE TO DO FOR THESE CHILDREN!
Life always gets busy
It seems a lot has changed for Kami and I since 6 months ago. Leave the loads of experiences, lessons and growin up we've done aside, and still a lot has changed. Although it was intense at first, we settled into the home the first two months and found such a peace. A silent calm that lasted no matter how crazy things got lost somewhere in the perpetual breeze, and brilliant dusks that lasted for hours. Just as it is any time you move to a new place, at first the circle is so small. Your world is what you see and what you see is all you know. But steadily and surely, our world has continued to expand here until now where I look at an average day and actually remark, "what happened to the simple times." Our cell phones are full of contacts working here for endless amounts of reasons, our plates are full with teaching, accounts, hiring and firing, projects, plans, fundraisers, and so much more, our vocabulary has expanded every day to the point I look around now and actually know what people are speaking about in Luganda in the next circle, (well every 3rd word or so), we travel with ease through the country, riding with chickens and goats, know every inch of the city and best places to get the cheapest posho and beans, what times to drive, which alleys to take if police are out looking for bribes, and I even take the occasional Sunday morning motorcycle ride to a place you can get real coffeee and sit on a porch! So like any place, after you settle in, the world starts expanding and your as intrenched in business as you were when you left. Besides the expansion of our world though has been that of the home and of the kids' with all the visitors we have had in the last few months. With traffic the airport trip is a full 4 hour ordeal and I've been driving it too much lately. (I'm just kidding, if you want to come, I would love to pick you up from the airport!) It started with our great friends Kip and Megan from Oregon, moved to many people we met in Kampala, then more, then 8 great visitors from Colorado, then our friends Johnny and Courtney who worked with Invisible Children and last Tuesday brought in the newest member to our workforce Joe Hedrick, a good friend of Kami's from North Carolina. The kids have grown to know all our movements and can't even try to tell us something not true anymore. They look up, see we know and then smile sheepishly and produce the real answer. Everyday still brings with it new challenges and the future of the home is always in our minds. Sam's health is really leading him towards retirement and Kami and I are working diligently on coupling the home with an incredible mentorship program here called Cornerstone. They do the same thing we do, only much better and with more resources. They take kids out of horrible situations, pay for all of their schools, provide a strong community and mentorship based on the principles and teachings of Christ and the men and woman we have met who have gone through their homes are testaments to the work they are doing. After they are done with secondary school, their college is payed for too and during this time, the older ones take over the leadership of homes for other children, and always still have the community of those who have come before and are living and working in higher positions through out Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, Rwanda and even further. In this way, they always have mentors above them, peers they share mentorship with, and those who they mentor below. We are excited to see where it goes. I will be meeting with one of the directors this week again to discuss it further.
We will keep you posted. We're both still safe and healthy and loving the life we have found here. Unfortunately, to all the children's dismay as well as Sam's, Kami and I have still not fallen in love. Actually, our friendship has grown so much and we both come from such similar families, something resembling a brother/sister relationship has developed and I would venture to say we are much further from seeing in the other something more than when we first began. Which suits us both great, but disappoints the Ugandans who keep trying to get us together.
We had to fire the headmaster of our school today. He kept starting fights with the teachers and one time stole the cooks food because she did something he didn't like. It was so intense. I sat as a 24 year old firing a 35 yr old and actually said the words, "clean out your desk and hand over the keys." (Its not as fun as it sounds.) So if anyone wants to be the headmaster/mistress of a primary school in Uganda, the position is now available...we're taking applications. haha. We love you all. Thank-you for the support!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Chris, Kami, and Courtney in an awfully crowed matatu(taxi) heading back to Kampala.
The best and only way to travel if you ask me-by boda boda.
We have had many bonfires as of late! Full of glowsticks courtesty of the group from Colorado!
Bonfires are the greatest for singing and praying and learning that Chris and I cannot make a fire.
One of God's many wonders.
Another of His many wonders.
Not so much a wonder...but I wonder why he has to wear things like this.
This little guy is Choto. He just came to the home. His brother Balya stays with us and he came after his mother's house burned down. He is four, speaks no English and will sit on the floor next to me for hours talking to me about who knows what.
Meeme, Molly, and Kami having girl time off course.
During one of the many gorgeous rains!The past month has been full of visitors and excitement. The boys have received many necessary items! Yeah! Shoes and badly needed clothes to be specific. We are about to hit the midterm mark of the second term this year. Pray as they are studying hard!
Thursday, June 5, 2008
It's a wonderful life! And it's not even Xmas time..
We can’t believe its June! The weather must be getting so beautiful back in the states. It continues to be an even 75 every day, and the fact that it is now June seems to only be amazing to us. We’re back in the full swing of school and both enjoying teaching more than last term. There was so much to figure out the first months we were trying to learn as much the kids we were teaching, but this time around, both of us have a far clearer understanding on Ugandan culture, learning patterns and work habits so the teaching is easier. And added to this, is the reward to see definite improvement in work, reading and writing in the students. Some of our younger boys we began teaching to read last term are getting more confident in their abilities and we help them less in stories. Math is still a little slow for some of Kami’s students. The first term she spent the entire time trying to correct some of the learning habits her kids had picked up. (Counting on toes for example when they ran out of fingers for adding and subtracting…gets very confusing and only works when their not wearing their school shoes.) She still finds herself having to go back and teach things some of the kids already know, but on the day they do get the concepts, she comes home beaming. She also has started teaching a music class, which she was born to do. Sometimes I look into her classroom and I have no idea who is having more fun, her, or the kids watching with open mouths.
At the secondary school, we have moved from the necessary, but monotonous rules of English writing to applying them in story telling. This is enjoyable for several reasons. First, the unfortunate, but undeniable truth about Ugandan curriculum is that there is very little room for imagination. No matter what subject is being taught, the formula is the same: The teacher gives the kids information, they write it down, memorize it and expel it back on the exam or when called upon in class. The kids don’t grow up here like first and second world children. They have almost no exposure to the world and with such limited resources, have barely even seen pictures of things like creatures in the ocean or thought of other worlds. They know all about
We miss showers, refrigerators, sleeping without a mosquito net, varieties in food and friends and family, but wouldn’t trade this for anything. It’s a wonderful life.
Finally an update
Sam Senfuka carrying water for cooking.
Hussein, the sweet neighbor boy, pretending to be spiderman of course.
Very artistic picture taken by one of the boys. We only teach the basics here.
The group of 8 people from Colorado brought stuffed animals that the kids held onto as if they were their own children. Oh so cute!
We were blessed with a puzzle within a huge package mailed to Chris. The kids loved it.
We bought 10 meters of rope on Market street for making double dutch ropes. I think we may have tried for 5 minutes before one side was turned into a sweet swing from the Jacfruit tree.
Yes we did make ninja masks/headbands for the ninja in every boy.
Some of the college group from Colorado helping paint our Primary School.
More paint...
on very durable ladders too. Here are Chris and me with our typical discussion faces on. Do we seemed stressed?
Here are some of the boys taking lunch on the side veranda of their house.
Musisi mid-bite. Thank you, thank you to all the sponsors for sending money to help us out. What the boys are eating here is posho and beans. This is what they eat every meal at lunch and dinner. It is the staple for young and school aged kids and the cheapest way to feed lots of people. Yet, we still struggle at times to be able to afford it all. So, thank you so much for feeding the mouths of the kids we have grown to love so much. I hope and pray you feel you are a part of their lives as well, because you are. More than you know.
Friday, May 16, 2008
We’re civilized again! Well, so to speak… This last week, with our good friend David (an mechanical engineer helping oversee the building of a school near us) we put in a ceiling in the guest room to get ready for 8 guests coming from a college in
Despite the problems, one of the nicest parts about the holiday has been our ability to garden and work with the kids in the morning and play in the afternoon. Kami just got some long ropes and today they are getting their first dose of Double Dutch jump roping. Chicken pox hit the home and the oldest boy got pretty sick. We debated back and forth whether or not to let the small boys rub against him so they all get it now when they are younger and it causes less harm to the body (as well as doesn’t make them miss any school.) I’ve never been in favor of giving someone a virus on purpose, but Kami said it would be for the best. In the end, we compromised by not telling the kids to stay away from him, so nature could take its proper course. It’s been over a week now, Muhammad is healthy and no one else became sick. We’ll see how the next week goes.
This is the last weekend of the break and on Monday its back to school and back to daily schedules. With as much has happened lately, both Kami and I are struggling to add on class prep work again, but we’ll fight through it. The kids always look forward to school though. (So strange)
Thank-you again to all the sponsors. Each of the kids know you by name and its not to uncommon to hear one of the small boys walking by saying a first and last name over and over as if everyday he needs to rememorize it incase one of you just show up. They are always so thankful. Every night after singing and dancing they say their prayers and I’ve never known a night to go by where they didn’t thank God for your support and for him to keep you safe.
Keep the home in your prayers.
With love, Chris & Kami
Musisi, the beautiful artist.
This is daily cooking. Every meal prep time, apprx 2 hrs. 
Kami is a horrible influence on the boys
David explaining British 240 watt electricity to Chris. 
The gardening crew.
The maze is looking good.
These kids never leave our side, or our clothes. 
Lunch time. Posho and Beans
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