Newsletter 9

Fellow BULA supporters,

Thank you for your patience in a much delayed newsletter. However, I write you bringing good news and exciting plans for BULA. Currently, I am back in the US, working to build the organization. Andie remains in Uganda, maintaining the relations with the new home and preparing for future plans.

News from Uganda is very positive. At St. Kizito, the 5000 L water tank was installed and a kitchen was built. Both projects were tremendously successful and carried out by our committed team of workers. The school is operating very well, which is wonderful to see after our six month absence from the country.  The teachers are using their new massive supply of textbooks and thrilled by the various teaching tools and classroom supplies. It is so wonderful to see the school in full operation with such enthusiasm.

More positive news is that the newly established Children's home is operating smoothly. The children are enrolled in school and are happy in their new setting. Currently, Andie is actively working with the Directors of the home to ensure the long term sustainability of the home. Andie has arranged for the Primary Director to work with an accountant to develop a transparent and workable accounting system to prevent future discrepancies. Staff has been employed to help in the daily operations so that the home will soon operate without a direct hand from our organization. Essentially, BULA will be an adviser and source of support.

Meanwhile, the organization is continuing its track to improve education and raise awareness. Recently, Mackenzie Brown, a Washington and Lee Senior, has accepted the Elrod Fellowship for a one year position in Uganda to work under BULA. This Fellow will implement the after school program created by our assembled group of teachers devoted to the cause and to education. We are so excited to see the impact this program will have and by the newest and very promising addition to the BULA team.

In addition, our art exchange program is greatly expanding. The first round was carried out in Uganda last month. We hung artwork completed by students on Long Island on the classroom walls of St. Kizito Primary School. The Ugandan students were thrilled to reciprocate the gesture and share with students in the US, their experiences and dreams through art. Pictures depicting this will soon be displayed on the website and I highly suggest taking a gander. It's a beautiful thing.

BULA is also beginning to receive noteworthy recognition. Earlier in March, the organization was recognized for its work by the Town of Islip with a Citation. This was extremely exciting for us. Soon to come are articles in the local paper and an appearance on Telecare's program, Good News. Upcoming events include Wine Tasting with Down the Rabbit Hole Wine Boutique of Sayville and Arm Chair Races. The location and dates for each are to follow.

Thank you for your support and compassion.

Best,

Melissa Fricke