November monthly update
Dear Friends,
Thank you for your continued encouragement, financial support and prayers. We have continued to meet our commitments to these amazingly special children because of you.
People like Rob Irias exemplify the kind of support that keeps this organization running. Last month Rob Irias organized a bike-a-thon for the Annapolis Area Christian School girls' and boys' soccer teams and raised over $8,000 for Kupenda! This is in addition to funds raised through his 2009 bike-a-thon ($5,582.64) and 2010 solo 200-mile one day bike ride($2,394.42). Thank you again Rob! Rob did all of this as a member of Adventures for the Cure (AFC) who are Kupenda's biggest and most consistent support. Thank you AFC!!!
This kind of support is especially needed with so many difficulties impacting our work in Kenya. In addition to ongoing conflicts with Somalia and fears associated with the upcoming presidential elections, we lost another sweet child.
Shehe Kitsao died on October October 28th, 2011 at the age of 16 years old. His death could have been avoided as it was ultimately the result of his family's poverty, ignorance and neglect. We did what we could and it was not enough. Shehe was an enthusiastic child as you can see in the short video clip of him posted on Kupenda's Facebook page.
In response to my sadness and frustration at Shehe's death, a friend emailed me the following Proverb that truly represents what you do as Kupenda supporters:
"Open your mouth for the speechless,
In the cause of all who are appointed to die
Open your mouth, judge righteously,
And plead the cause of the poor and needy." -Proverbs 31:8-9
Let us remember Shehe by serving those still with us and pleading their cause. Hundreds have lived because of Kupenda's efforts, but it is hard to think on this when we lose a life like this.
As the Christmas season approaches, we have two ways to support children like Shehe and better equip Kupenda to avoid his fate.
1. December 9th come out to Hamilton Congregational Church for a Christmas
Benefit Concert by the very talented, folksy sounding, Christian trio, Maeve.
More details on the event can be found here.
2. In lieu of a traditional Christmas gift, make a donation on behalf of someone
you love or as an end of year gift to Kupenda.
Thank you for continuing your support of Kupenda! As we prepare to celebrate Advent - a season that reminds us that even the greatest darkness will be overcome by new life - please keep us in prayer and on your gift list.
Your partnership and fellowship truly change lives.
With Great Love and Affection,
Cynthia Bauer
Founder/Director
Kupenda for the Children
PO Box 473 Hampton NH 03843