Letter for Family and Friends

Dear Friends and Family,

I am sending out this letter to share my excitement about a radical change in my current path. I recently accepted an offer to work in Sangli, a village in Maharashtra, India, as a teacher at a small alternative education school. The school was developed last year through the efforts of SANGRAM, a non-profit organization in Sangli.

SANGRAM began in India in 1992 to support and educate people working in the sex trade industry. SANGRAM offers support groups and advocacy programs to educate and empower women, people of diverse sexualities and those living with HIV/AIDS to carry out their rights. The school will be educating children of those working in the sex trade.

What I have come to see hidden within this opportunity is that I cannot carry out this undertaking alone. In facing the many unknowns and given short preparation time, reaching out to others is essential. To be able to share this means a great deal and however you are able to assist me, I am so grateful. I would not be able to follow through with such an offer if not for the support and shared wisdom of loved ones and my community. This understanding guides me now and throughout this experience.

Any support you can offer, may it be prayer or meditation, encouraging thoughts, insights to share, laughter – may you know that I accept it all with an open heart. In return I will give my efforts to taking a journey, building community abroad, and being of service, all with the intention to grow and return with gifts to give back.

Equally important is needed support of my fundraising goals. SANGRAM at this time has offered to cover room, board, food, and a small monthly stipend throughout the year. However, in a short period of time I will need to raise necessary funds to cover initial travel expenses, preparatory medical/dental care, travelers insurance, visa, and my first expenses upon arrival. If you are interested and able to assist in financially sponsoring a part of these expenses, I would be very appreciative.

My fundraising goal is to reach $2,500 by May 21st, and with your help this can be possible. Your donation will be supporting me and also the efforts of SANGRAM in continuing to develop and diversity the school. As reference, a dollar can go a long way in sustaining village living in India. Your donations can be made in person, through the mail, or online using the Paypal link on my blog site.

My departure date is set for May 31, 2010 and school will begin June 10th. If you are interested in following this experience or receiving more detailed information, please continue to visit this blog as it is updated. Here you can find links to further information about SANGRAM, Sangli, India, fundraising details and donation through Paypal.

I thank you for any energy you can contribute and look forward to sharing this experience with you.

With Love and Gratitude,
Elizabeth