Youth raise more than $42K for wellness center in Africa
Posted on Tuesday, August 8, 2006
BENTONVILLE - In the past seven weeks, teens at Bentonville First Baptist Church raised more than $ 40, 000 for a wellness and pregnancy center in Kenya.
The $ 42, 106. 90 presented Sunday to Rich Van Pelt, national director of Compassion International, is more than twice the $ 15, 000 goal the teens set for themselves. With the support of First Baptist Church members and the participation of almost every member of the youth group, the teens' original goal was easily surpassed.
After learning about some desperate needs in Africa, the youth committed to raising funds to assist with the project in Kenya.
"Several of us attended church camp in Panama City, Fla., in June," explained Kathryn Knipple, a recent graduate of Bentonville High School and a member of the First Baptist Studio 412 youth group. "While we were at camp, we heard a representative from Compassion International speak about the need for a wellness and pregnancy center in Kenya. There was a need to help pay for the construction of a building where women could learn how to care for themselves while they are pregnant. Also, we wanted to be able to provide medication for the … clients for one year. After the service, some of us who had just finished high school decided to try and help with the fundraising for the center."
Knipple said about 50 members of the youth group were able to work toward their goal of acquiring $ 15, 000 by early August. Among the activities the youngsters undertook were eight car washes set up at a variety of locations; a cookout at the Village Home Center in Bella Vista; a number of short-term jobs - dog walking, detailing cars, etc.; and a golf tournament at a Bella Vista golf course. The tournament alone brought in nearly $ 13, 000.
FEEDBACK:
Something to say about this topic? Submit a Letter to the Editor online
