Hello BLOOM supporters! Thank you for supporting such a
great organization. I look forward to learning so much more about the
country of Lesotho and how we can make a difference! I work in the non-profit
world and know that it indeed does 'take a village' to not only raise a child,
but also to create change for the better. The mission of BLOOM Africa appeals
to me because it is not only supporting the immediate needs of orphans in
Lesotho, but it is looking for ways to create ways to sustain that support and
improve their way of life.
I believe in giving-back. It was instilled by my parents
while growing up, and it continues to drive who I am today. I've been
fundraising, volunteering and helping locally in my community since childhood.
It has guided me to my current profession in fundraising for one of the largest
non-profits in the world. But being in the fundraising world, I am always
looking for more opportunities for hands-on work. I also work everyday to
improve my immediate community, so the opportunity to branch out and travel
internationally to help was very appealing.
If there weren't these things called bills and student loans
in my life, my dream job would be to help build needed infrastructure or help
run empowerment programs in Africa. Ever since a very powerful class on Africa
in college, I've been continuously learning about the cultures, ways of
life and challenges within the continent. Specifically, I am drawn to issue of
empowerment of women to take care of their families. Africa may be a long
ways-away from our own everyday lives, but I believe it is important understand
the world outside of our own bubble and to learn as much as I can about other
cultures in order to fully appreciate our own blessings.
I am so excited to learn more. I want to experience the
beauty of Lesotho's landscape and culture. But I also want to learn as much as
I can about how they live. How does their economy work? How does the culture
vary from one village to another? How do they hope to continue traditions
and/or change cultural norms? How do they hope to support the orphans in the
country? How can we try to change the number of orphans that need help? Most of
all, I want to know how I can help. I am looking forward to learn how I can and
thank BLOOM Africa for giving the opportunity to do so - Kea leboha!
Laura Olson
Laura is a
Senior Relationship Manager with United Way of Metropolitan Chicago. She will be 1 of 4 volunteers visiting
Lesotho on the inaugural BLOOM Voluntour in Spring 2014.
