Photos from Jim Adede and KIPE

I was lucky enough to recently spend a day with Jim Adede and his team out at KIPE. Both Jim and KIPE have been mentioned here previously, and Jim passed along some photos to share:

The above series was taken of the KIPE Model Farm project at the end of 2007. This project, designed to train members in agricultural technique and nutrition, is currently looking for funding for the next growing cycle.

Improvements on the KIPE compound have recently included the installation of two large water tanks for rainwater collection (for both irrigation and as a more consistent water source for general use) and several “spring cleaning” projects – partially done in response to damage sustained during the recent election violence.

KIPE was also able to secure funding to begin the construction of the chicken house for the proposed Model Farm project of raising and ultimately selling chickens for both food and profit.

Finally, Jim has also put together a small document with some additional photos and explanation from recent KIPE happenings, which can be downloaded here. (KIPE Picture Set)

-Matthew

HEAL Fundraiser Event!!

On Friday, April 11^th, HEAL held its very first fundraising event at the Funky Buddha Lounge in Chicago, Illinois. Festivities included drinks, food, stellar dance performances, and plenty of good vibes…The conception of this event started back in February by the UIC based HEAL members, who wanted to raise funds to help the people of Kenya get back on their feet after all the election turmoil.

The event turned out to be a smashing success with (drum roll please) right at 1,100 dollars, not too shabby for our first time out, raised. All proceeds, of course, go directly towards HEAL’s activities (more specifics in a later post). Despite the nasty Chicago weather, nearly 100 people attended including UIC professors, students, staff, and friends – everyone really seemed to enjoy themselves – at least the drinks.We also sold 50/50 raffle tickets at the event, where the winner received half the pot and the other half goes to HEAL. The winner, Norman Altman, generously donated the winnings back to HEAL. How nice is that!!! It should also be noted that a certain Harvard trained professor had quite a bit of trouble understanding the method in which raffle tickets are sold and given out…(We’ve had trouble with this guy before)

DJ John Rogers, HEAL member and UIC student, cranked out sweet music all night which led to some sensational dancing by Albert Plenty, Elena Navas, Erin Starzyk, and others.

We also need to praise chef extraordinaire Shenaz, flown in from Kenya for the event, for the delectablely delicious homemade spring rolls and samosas…yummy! Additionally, cheers to all the volunteers who helped make this event possible: Dr. Robert Bailey, Dr. Nadine Peacock, Erin Starzyk, Robyn Wheatley, John Rogers, Albert Plenty, Matt Westercamp, Martha Schnell, and Marisa Young.

Most importantly, we really want to thank everyone for coming and making the event such a wonderful and meaningful success.