this blog is to keep everyone informed on my upcoming travels to south america--specifically my work this summer in the city of belo horizonte, minas gerais, brazil!
the following are excerpts of the sponsorship letter i sent to family and friends recently, letting them know about my trip and how they could help me get there... enjoy!
Greetings from Houston!
Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers over the past few months. I’ve been contemplating some pretty big life decisions and am now writing to ask you for your financial support, if possible, and for your continued prayers as my decisions turn into reality over the next few weeks.
A few years ago, a friend told me about the Brazil Internship Program (BIP) offered by the YMCA International. Every year, 3-5 interns are sent to live and work in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Belo is a bustling city of 4 million people located about 300 miles from Rio de Janiero. While abroad, BIPs live with local families, thus truly experiencing day-to-day Brazilian culture. BIPs might have various work assignments like working at camps for street-children, working in orphanages or other facilities. While the American “Y” serves as a network of community/fitness centers, the International YMCA serves a different role in developing countries.
I’ve deliberated applying to the BIP in the past but one thing or another always kept me from doing so. Through much prayer and reflection I decided to apply this year and left the rest in God’s hands. After a lengthy selection process, I was notified in late February that I had been selected as an intern!
Since the program begins in mid-May, I’ve decided to resign from my position with Texas Tech in order to serve abroad. The decision to leave TTU was not an easy one as I truly enjoy helping students realize that education is a catalyst for positive change in their lives. However, I know that this mission trip will ultimately
help me connect my passion for community service, education and my faith.My personal project is to coordinate a “Family Night” at one of the YMCA’s in which families will enjoy a community meal and participate in education, self-esteem, faith and health information workshops. I’ve already begun making contact with civic organizations, as well as the Archdiocese of Belo Horizonte, to help me carry out this project. I know this is an ambitious project but it is possible!
Just remember: “for nothing is impossible with God.” Luke 1:37
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