tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72348596765233858572024-03-12T17:27:12.002-07:00GCV Volunteers' blog
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-85365254627347317922013-06-17T03:18:00.001-07:002013-06-17T03:18:34.047-07:00<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Cycling for GCV and
another charity! <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit50zX8SA65bNJeaeBDZTqUAtorplb16ggFyROEPsSOwR3oJi3kQrFaTUe4b4vYUEwzg9mZlBdqkrNbZr-t9iVtSvKcEDo6j_9oYyA4Q3o1eZdizRx_fAqwdxx-AF_Wxr9mSJFrOwfUdNr/s1600/Simon+Cycling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit50zX8SA65bNJeaeBDZTqUAtorplb16ggFyROEPsSOwR3oJi3kQrFaTUe4b4vYUEwzg9mZlBdqkrNbZr-t9iVtSvKcEDo6j_9oYyA4Q3o1eZdizRx_fAqwdxx-AF_Wxr9mSJFrOwfUdNr/s320/Simon+Cycling.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Simon and his friend Paul have been cycling for fun for some time,
usually weekends and /or after work when they decided to take on a bigger
challenge, try their strengths and have a good time too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">They have chosen two charities to fundraise for: Macmillan- because a
lot of people suffer from cancer and Simon's family unfortunately has had to
face this unforgiving illness as well. And Grace Children's Village, Uganda,
because Simon is crazy about Africa and bringing positive changes to the poor
communities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Please sponsor their combined passion for cycling and good causes, their
commitment to make the world a better place to live! Follow the link and donate
now :-) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=simonpaulchallenges&isTeam=true"><span style="color: blue;">http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=simonpaulchallenges&isTeam=true</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-18276140423144263862013-05-12T04:45:00.002-07:002013-05-12T04:59:31.109-07:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><b>Liz is throwing herself out of the plane for GCV!</b></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8Zvz9MaD0FYks02QYiiQwi6yoiL2MYNlBQ-0c6vsLtuqkS8tGGld4ucKL6fybYNaHEHD0snAMUvSeUGbP9w-Ci0nj2tbbqg_YGy264Kt0QpLI7qr32n61boiJSjPIqHXegi5Xos43xQz/s1600/167x187989a950a-a251-445c-9006-2c183dad1cdf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ8Zvz9MaD0FYks02QYiiQwi6yoiL2MYNlBQ-0c6vsLtuqkS8tGGld4ucKL6fybYNaHEHD0snAMUvSeUGbP9w-Ci0nj2tbbqg_YGy264Kt0QpLI7qr32n61boiJSjPIqHXegi5Xos43xQz/s1600/167x187989a950a-a251-445c-9006-2c183dad1cdf.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">This really is a cause that is
close to my heart, after spending 2.5 months in rural Uganda several years ago
I have seen the effect that poverty can have but was also encouraged by the
positive impact that organizations such as this can have (if they have the
right approach). One of the things that stands out about Grace Children’s
Village is there is a real focus on self sufficiency and sustainability
(another cause that is close to my heart).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Another great thing about the project is that all the people
employed by the project are local Ugandans including co-founder Dave and it is
the local people who have a say in how the project is run. Any other work
carried out outside of Uganda is done by volunteers (mostly I think from Dave
giving lots of his spare time). So you can ensure that the money you give
will be going towards the cause and not to line other people’s pockets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; margin-bottom: 0.833em; margin-top: 0.833em; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; margin-bottom: 0.833em; margin-top: 0.833em; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<h3 style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; line-height: normal;">
</h3>
<br />Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-86230808801057960362013-05-12T04:29:00.000-07:002013-05-12T04:29:22.282-07:00<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b>Jumping out of the plane for GCV!</b></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Jonita has written why she has chosen to fundraise for GCV and told us about her passions:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
"Coming from an Indian background, I had seen lot of poverty and under privileged families around, however, I always had the advantage of getting what I wanted. I, along with my family, engaged my self in various voluntary work, anything as little to keep my contribution scale up to my level of satisfaction.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
When I heard of GCV, I was totally inspired by the ideas and determination of the co founders. And then I found out about the fundraising sky diving event that GCV organises..and that was it! I knew it then that I am going for it!! Sky diving was on my bucket list since many years but my fear of jumping from 12,000ft high always stopped it from happening! GCV gave me the courage to go for my dream by motivating me to raise money for these little kids back in Uganda who also dream for a better life! My fear has now been replaced by the smiles of these little kids! I'm ready for the jump with the BIGGEST smile ever! Thank you GCV for giving me this opportunity. This has taught me how I can overcome by fear by changing the focus of attention to a greater purpose and enjoy the ride!"</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
We wish you to enjoy every single second of the jump!!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-15923514797774084582013-03-14T10:35:00.002-07:002013-03-14T16:00:12.001-07:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Long waited trip to Africa-Uganda</span></h2>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPNcQgSXJF-sbGJ5nFHhvRILsTxfdj_KAAXXPv9liGuef60Kyl4HD-T8O1eSJ2MQxNMCYpKX3GepW6YOBrcqP-JX-hieIM17-0wQmsaL3dwEF_2CCt4MzeKyroemltpKDXNO7mcHo2jXH/s1600/Uganda+2013+054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPNcQgSXJF-sbGJ5nFHhvRILsTxfdj_KAAXXPv9liGuef60Kyl4HD-T8O1eSJ2MQxNMCYpKX3GepW6YOBrcqP-JX-hieIM17-0wQmsaL3dwEF_2CCt4MzeKyroemltpKDXNO7mcHo2jXH/s320/Uganda+2013+054.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4DWsjdrenj_gsbJbUvNiBqO8T68YvYpbW65IBAfT3jrTfPZ2oer-kKCPfmCdrCFKW8wvRdr_wUmMznF-ZA0Gv1cvvvnZ0Nf1RwfF7Hj-5-qK3NI5IRkbc2MdrCTFy7BzT2Au5nO9Cgqq/s1600/Uganda+2013+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4DWsjdrenj_gsbJbUvNiBqO8T68YvYpbW65IBAfT3jrTfPZ2oer-kKCPfmCdrCFKW8wvRdr_wUmMznF-ZA0Gv1cvvvnZ0Nf1RwfF7Hj-5-qK3NI5IRkbc2MdrCTFy7BzT2Au5nO9Cgqq/s320/Uganda+2013+029.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">As someone who has always been fascinated with Africa, I was, to say the least, more than a little envious of the 'experience' I knew my son, James, would have when he embarked upon his volunteer year at Grace Children's Village, Uganda. What I could not possibly have comprehended back then, and having since visited GCV for myself in February 2013, was the sheer passion that emanates from everyone involved in this amazing project! I travelled to Uganda anticipating an adventurous (I'm a mum, don't forget!) visit to see my son. What I came away having had was a truly life-affirming, if not life-changing, experience! I feel privileged to have been a small part of this awe-inspiring project. The highlight of my 'journey' was the time I was able to spend teaching Class P3 (8-9 year old) - the joy and radiant smiles on the childrens' faces as we chatted and sang will stay with me for ever! ...I can't wait to go back!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-77385419240809759432013-03-14T07:03:00.001-07:002013-03-14T07:03:31.809-07:00<br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 17px;"><h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: 11pt;">When small contributions make a big impact</b></h2>
</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGDdx-tTUyFLL9rx7vOx6GL5lNDtIBtFJ3CjmmI3Ut6z-yOTihhCNfVq4H0YP6F8apB0gK1QvxJ05EbnumUVJ43KZs-bV7nSNtfmG3nLhbgZRV-1pz2cIXt-oNJ482HwNV1rK-lMWO9ua/s1600/For+the+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGDdx-tTUyFLL9rx7vOx6GL5lNDtIBtFJ3CjmmI3Ut6z-yOTihhCNfVq4H0YP6F8apB0gK1QvxJ05EbnumUVJ43KZs-bV7nSNtfmG3nLhbgZRV-1pz2cIXt-oNJ482HwNV1rK-lMWO9ua/s320/For+the+blog.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 17px;">Following the project for the last four years, I was fortunate enough to <var></var>spend one week at Grace Children’s Village in February 2013. Arriving with no expectations, I was immediately moved by the progress, the foresight of the co-founders, the impact on the community and the warmth of the people. It was amazing to how seemingly minor contributions can result in significant changes on the ground. My time onsite was not only one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life but also the most rewarding. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 17px;"></span> </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">
<br /></div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-72145731879697725822013-03-14T06:52:00.001-07:002013-03-14T06:52:16.466-07:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">In the community like no other</span></h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJCq9TtICkxz0wGCktxuHYticl4WqgBTnTMI2psdVm7pTxdZXWDnY_y9SfC8eDRelNxr7ipMiHG0uUGivOqp9GswPqi-CJMpbbMglqKTsMMnz8q98bVAnumWP_d4fftXSYYr1IG-uWCEV/s1600/IMG_7130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJCq9TtICkxz0wGCktxuHYticl4WqgBTnTMI2psdVm7pTxdZXWDnY_y9SfC8eDRelNxr7ipMiHG0uUGivOqp9GswPqi-CJMpbbMglqKTsMMnz8q98bVAnumWP_d4fftXSYYr1IG-uWCEV/s320/IMG_7130.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">What a great time in Grace Childrens Village. I felt a part of the community and did my bit including teaching, eye testing, demonstrating teeth cleaning, milking cows and goats and some labouring on the farm. They have so little but are so generous in their outlook. We can learn something from the way the community looks out for everyone. In the picture I have just picked up a young one who was lost and the other kids have come to tell me where he should be. They were having a great time with that wheelbarrow (health and safety!)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-30180678711997459712013-03-14T05:15:00.001-07:002013-03-14T06:07:14.106-07:00<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Planning to see the next closest relatives to humans? </span></h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh789kgchktGpIeY-K0QXTIixCfBPwhtb7-ft_nroA8zgNLVx7uRfap9hI0QA8HWjjRNwhbSXKpx22NXFXzPYShtXxDKkKYcP-iJfvptvHV_6AOb9t8anMawGK6hyyv1dPa6xS3e256JzHF/s1600/Uganda+2009+182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh789kgchktGpIeY-K0QXTIixCfBPwhtb7-ft_nroA8zgNLVx7uRfap9hI0QA8HWjjRNwhbSXKpx22NXFXzPYShtXxDKkKYcP-iJfvptvHV_6AOb9t8anMawGK6hyyv1dPa6xS3e256JzHF/s320/Uganda+2009+182.JPG" width="320" /></a>The project is 500m from the road that many people will take when going to visit the mountain gorillas. If you're coming to Uganda to see the gorillas - you'd be welcome to visit Grace Children's Village too. If you're already coming to see us and want to see the gorillas too, get in touch with GCV Co-Founder David Bakeine, who is also a tour guide and can advice how it is best done.<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-23833502573262103452013-03-14T05:10:00.000-07:002013-03-14T06:05:04.326-07:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Guest house with the view!</span></h2>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBgKDeHdAbae4sTyruAaPNiH4vj0fk4SfCIOn04-vBFXvxJ9YvDUBKPNKgTKBCWWf0t4E1tYe917pxqiJA570W5uRqcPpAjRg-YkZNiiOtGSTfCRNmPIze0WYL-g3Aw-oLEHmc_TkvfX5/s1600/251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBgKDeHdAbae4sTyruAaPNiH4vj0fk4SfCIOn04-vBFXvxJ9YvDUBKPNKgTKBCWWf0t4E1tYe917pxqiJA570W5uRqcPpAjRg-YkZNiiOtGSTfCRNmPIze0WYL-g3Aw-oLEHmc_TkvfX5/s320/251.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This is the guest house that you could stay in if you visit our project. It's got beautiful views across the valley and you could wake up to the sounds of rural Ugandan life - truly a remarkable experience. With Uganda being known as the 'Pearl of Africa' and the local area being known as 'The Switzerland of Africa', please come and find out why for yourself.</span>Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-34055068984786595562013-03-11T04:23:00.000-07:002013-03-14T06:01:04.556-07:00<h3 style="text-align: center;">
It's not just about teaching! </h3>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRTUqp1isRF-jOQC6ikHuYQJXI01BX4OyZJb0EWgMSggWcd8blz8WvwZ1gHM-_6RTnFDdKqHE24FOd-TXCqXDMCGlwiblceVIWXTy32g-yrINaxZ9ipTOZI4jWGJ-a_CfmujT7mt5r9dC/s1600/Federico+Testa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRTUqp1isRF-jOQC6ikHuYQJXI01BX4OyZJb0EWgMSggWcd8blz8WvwZ1gHM-_6RTnFDdKqHE24FOd-TXCqXDMCGlwiblceVIWXTy32g-yrINaxZ9ipTOZI4jWGJ-a_CfmujT7mt5r9dC/s320/Federico+Testa.jpg" width="320" /></a>Federico Testa is kindly sharing his unique experience at GCV which shows how enthusiasm and big heart are the most important things when volunteering.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"</span><span lang="en" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I was a guest of David Bakeine for a month. Being Italian, I could not teach children because I'm not well prepared in the English language, but I still have to make my contribution to the project: manual work of digging, carpentry, etc... (which is what I do best!). </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The reward</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">of the hard work</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">has been</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">seeing the growth</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">of the community's dream</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">at </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">GCV.</span><span lang="en" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">It '</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">was</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">like being</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">part of something</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">very important.</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">"</span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-23876167060816185222013-03-06T04:54:00.003-08:002013-03-14T06:05:43.635-07:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvRFyCrUsg3c19NaeWpSNp5SUuWWSGR27gVr03hhNyVtN4C6nhGailbu6uDn_FjIrQTAYNsrbSPNwwksEEBYOeIB1wDXpnsdQW-L6c2906nRcf_JHwYre9fW97vTF4RBWj5MyLXWPNUzp/s1600/tumblr_mj19taQpav1rkmq27o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvRFyCrUsg3c19NaeWpSNp5SUuWWSGR27gVr03hhNyVtN4C6nhGailbu6uDn_FjIrQTAYNsrbSPNwwksEEBYOeIB1wDXpnsdQW-L6c2906nRcf_JHwYre9fW97vTF4RBWj5MyLXWPNUzp/s320/tumblr_mj19taQpav1rkmq27o1_500.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of our parting gifts to the GCV school! :-) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-52263609352759777982013-03-06T04:45:00.000-08:002013-03-14T07:43:39.723-07:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
The home is where the heart lies</h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXtqd14YaYkd93QthdQBoUj5oES1RqfsPU4rdEf09-C7He4D68I261ooxjaKEJcWJJBQgDWUJjQJ9cJWyZCC0mjlHn0LbffKwGQQDr2yrJODO9VN1TrPT5KF2SXnrN9ETtdMRZHrheepXv/s1600/tumblr_mj19b5Euwg1rkmq27o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXtqd14YaYkd93QthdQBoUj5oES1RqfsPU4rdEf09-C7He4D68I261ooxjaKEJcWJJBQgDWUJjQJ9cJWyZCC0mjlHn0LbffKwGQQDr2yrJODO9VN1TrPT5KF2SXnrN9ETtdMRZHrheepXv/s320/tumblr_mj19b5Euwg1rkmq27o1_500.jpg" width="320" /></a>Liam Scarth, a former volunteer at GCV says:<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I spent one year at GCV during 2011-2012 - it was one year
with some of the most generous, kind, loving people I have had the fortune
of meeting. An unforgettable time spent with some extremely talented
children and in an organisation that is making a huge difference in the
community. A relatively short time; and now it feels like my second home.
This is a fantastic project with so much life in it with a very bright
future ahead.<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">The picture is of the children (6-8 year olds) that I taught having a break before their debut performance in front of their parents, about to act out some Ugandan Folk stories".</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-56520135573680200922013-03-06T04:39:00.000-08:002013-03-11T04:33:43.365-07:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2Qsvlxaa1ZJECkxXqSXJ4aw_krO9vfHekgK0_TZpArwNLb8o95GptNhhM5Qk-c-k14smqqzhKe4u73nYuoNiCaMiiZyatyBzPQ8LYNevA4pu2AE6xdepyRijvhZHemrm6mBT_vKCgkiX/s1600/tumblr_mj199asljz1rkmq27o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2Qsvlxaa1ZJECkxXqSXJ4aw_krO9vfHekgK0_TZpArwNLb8o95GptNhhM5Qk-c-k14smqqzhKe4u73nYuoNiCaMiiZyatyBzPQ8LYNevA4pu2AE6xdepyRijvhZHemrm6mBT_vKCgkiX/s320/tumblr_mj199asljz1rkmq27o1_500.jpg" width="320" /></a>James Rayner, another enthusiastic volunteer who’s had a
great experience on the project has shared his thoughts in a few words:<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In January 2011 I set off to Grace Children’s Village to contribute to the construction phase of the new classrooms, general
maintenance at the school and associated farm, and share my ideas on the
progression of the project towards community self-sufficiency.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The relationships I made with the local community were
unforgettable, particularly with village teenagers Andrew, Arod, Amon and
Roland, who I spent a lot of time working alongside. Without knowing any of the
local language, Rukiga, and them knowing very little English, we had to develop
our own method of communication and slowly began learning phrases in each
other’s language.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The GCV vision of self-sufficiency and sustainability is one
that is simple yet unfortunately not always implemented in charity based
projects. Educating adults to become self-sufficient through efficient,
integrated and sustainable agricultural practices, rearing of livestock, and
through tourism focused initiatives is, to me, the secret to the on-going success
story.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I gained a great deal of satisfaction knowing that I was
making some form of difference to the lives of these poverty stricken people
and am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of it.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-87344989212475086662013-03-06T04:33:00.002-08:002013-03-11T04:33:50.352-07:00<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2z4EQS8VHLAQ4scx0VwXAunCJYtOe2YVDyppQYzVrfIReZ1ytHUxjhj_OAVHRc-o2ZBV2j9dU88QSJTHlDLWgMfraFIIZss5ethA_oal0wQ6hg8tWX3s4hgnNmF7Rz4mRSmkHsnCI5ITb/s1600/tumblr_mj182rIg531rkmq27o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2z4EQS8VHLAQ4scx0VwXAunCJYtOe2YVDyppQYzVrfIReZ1ytHUxjhj_OAVHRc-o2ZBV2j9dU88QSJTHlDLWgMfraFIIZss5ethA_oal0wQ6hg8tWX3s4hgnNmF7Rz4mRSmkHsnCI5ITb/s320/tumblr_mj182rIg531rkmq27o1_500.jpg" width="320" /></a>One of our former volunteer, Sam Degg shared his thoughts
on the project:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In 2011 I went to Uganda as a boy; I came back one year
later as a man. It was the most amazing experience of my life and that was all
down to the time I spent at GCV. I was welcomed into the community with open
arms and made to feel as if it were my home. I had the pleasure of teaching
some truly extraordinary kids, meeting some wonderful people and making some
life-long friends. Grace Children’s Village is a project full of life and
promise and is a place that will always be close to my heart.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-19896098435171798452013-03-06T04:29:00.000-08:002013-03-14T04:33:47.245-07:00<br />
<h3>
<b><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7234859676523385857" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
</b><b><div style="text-align: center;">
<b><ol style="display: inline !important;">
<li style="display: inline !important;"><b>The Launch!!</b></li>
</ol>
</b></div>
</b></h3>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCWGBZWlm9-RtS1Na-s2bwkVtAuTrCCXYfUrNDr-x7HrweYq09YSPbQO0de7D-7CMSG-VVafp0B6kh_yWWlJ6JzDJBSj3VsU3n08RB7rSVvI-2ctbla9EMOiBxQShzjkmWAHicNMTYihi/s1600/tumblr_mdbur3BAgT1ra0z8w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCWGBZWlm9-RtS1Na-s2bwkVtAuTrCCXYfUrNDr-x7HrweYq09YSPbQO0de7D-7CMSG-VVafp0B6kh_yWWlJ6JzDJBSj3VsU3n08RB7rSVvI-2ctbla9EMOiBxQShzjkmWAHicNMTYihi/s320/tumblr_mdbur3BAgT1ra0z8w.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The Grace Children’s Village is proud to launch their volunteers’ blog and post its first post! This has been set up to allow
visitors and volunteers who have been to GCV (like the ones you can see on the right) to share their experiences and inspire others to step out of their comfort zone, explore the possibilities of helping others and become a part of the unique and tight community!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7234859676523385857.post-38360399408601277222013-03-05T06:21:00.001-08:002013-03-05T06:35:46.894-08:00<h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just a little bit about us and why we exist.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy!</div>
</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/OvFnrtPHVy4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Grace Children's Villagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02752668976164487201noreply@blogger.com0