Rotary Connects the World. That was the theme set by Rotary International several years ago and although it has always felt relevant through Global Grants such as a children’s hospital in Kosovo or a water purifying garden in the Philippines.This past week that theme became more personal

Last week we welcomed Anne Njeri, the founder of Compassionate Hands for the Disabled in Nairobi, Kenya. We were moved by her compassion and courage as she shared about her work to care for and educate 106 children with disabilities. Anne is visiting the Kansas City area to experience and learn from groups in the area who are also serving those with mental or physical challenges.

On Saturday, while serving coffee at The Rotary Plaza, we met James. James lives in the Liberty area and after seeing the signs about coffee and community, decided to stop by.  Through casual conversation, we learned that James was originally from Kenya. He now works to equip and encourage leaders and has a “side” nutrition business. While living in Kenya as a farmer, he saw firsthand the difficulties with adequate farmland, depleted soil, and access to vitamins and nutrients that would typically be obtained from fresh fruits and vegetables. He developed a vertical gardening system and a way to take those nutrients into a supplement form to get to people who so desperately need them. 

 

My jaw dropped. He needed to meet Anne. After a few phone calls, Anne arrived at the Rotary Plaza and she and James connected. Upon hearing about the work that Anne was doing, James stated, “I can help you with that!”. They are planning to connect again while Anne is visiting. Two people with hearts of service who saw a need and had the courage to take action, meeting.  That is the power of Rotary.