ZACH RODRIGUES - Embrace It Africa

 

Zach Rodriguez, a Saint Bonaventure graduate student, and Chief Operating Officer of Embrace It Africa in Uganda was our guest speaker today. Rotarian Dan McDowell invited Zach to speak. Dan traveled to Uganda to work in the orphanages that are supported through this "dream become reality" vision of Zach's!

 

The mission of Embrace It Africa includes education, public health, and economic development. Due to HIV/AIDS there are MANY orphans in Uganda. The population average is 51% BELOW the age of 15.

 

Zach opened a bank nearly ten years ago and ended up closing it to better understand the culture and needs. Just 6 months ago a REAL bank opened, with walls, and tellers, and competitive short term loans intended as seed money for sustainable projects. This time it is going better.

 

They are also constructing a HEALTH CLINIC that will service the children at the orphanage in Bethlehem first. Irrigation systems are helping with farming and food production, especially during their seasons of drought.

 

Great work, Zach! (MK suggested he become a ROTARIAN and learn about GLOBAL grants!)