In October, our students participated in the 3rd annual Foulées Olympiques, running laps to raise funds for the Konekte and Georgie Badiel Foundations. The students and the community successfully raised $20,150. This amount was evenly divided between the two foundations and donated during the visits of Georgie Badiel and Ann Hoppenot, the co-founder of Konekte, to our Englewood and Jersey City campuses.
The funds raised will aid in building a “community oases” in Burkina Faso, a project of the Georgie Badiel Foundation. This year, the foundation is expanding its efforts beyond just wells. They are creating what Georgie calls an “oasis” – a communal space where villagers can access clean water and sanitation facilities. Inside a small house, the well and faucets are protected, with a chalkboard outside for children to learn and practice writing. Additionally, this space is equipped with solar panels to provide electricity. This access to clean water is not only life-changing but also enables the villagers to start a community garden.
At our Thanksgiving lunch, we showcased a model of a Burkina Faso village. Students from each grade and campus contributed to building this model during Georgie Badiel’s and the Northern Highland High School student’s visit. They crafted various elements like animal figures and painted Tiebele houses. The model was assembled by High School students. It served as a powerful symbol of our collective commitment to making a positive change in the world.
The remaining funds will support Konekte’s work in Haiti, aiding two schools and enhancing children’s access to education.
As we approach the Thanksgiving holidays, these actions serve as a powerful inspiration for all of us to extend a helping hand, express gratitude, and acknowledge the profound positive impact we can collectively create.
The visits of Georgie Badiel and Ann Hoppenot, the co-founder of Konekte, to our Englewood and Jersey City campuses.
