Pay it Forward - Supporting Youth in Science and Cultural Studies

Announcement #1: Aquatic Adventures Student a Finalist for the Cox Conserves Heroes Award!

A few years ago I met a very dynamic woman, Shara Fisler, the founder of Aquatic Adventures - an urban science education program for inner city teens. Kindred, I know. We discussed possibilities of me working with her and her program in San Diego. Though my timing has been way off, she and her program are still very much on my radar. (So, Shara, if you're reading this, I'm still hoping to do something with you.)

Now, one of her students, is a finalist for the prestigious Cox Conserves Hero Award for the San Diego area. Sonya is an Aquatic Adventures high school senior who volunteered more than 200 hours to plan and lead the Wetland Avengers habitat restoration event last May. This project mobilized more than 1,000 volunteers to help learn about and protect their neighborhood canyon. Volunteers planted 2,500 native plants, designed an outdoor canyon classroom, and created a school garden at an adjacent elementary school. The event became the largest community-based restoration event in the country. Sonya's leadership made this possible!

If you would be so kind as to join me and voting for her, she will receive up to $5,000 to donate
to Aquatic Adventures if she wins. All it takes is the click of your mouse to vote.
Voting ends April 26th!

Announcement #2: The People Could Fly Will Travel to Egypt with the African Travel Association

The People Could Fly proudly announces we have been honored to be invited to join a contingent of ambassadors, students, and creative entrepreneurs from around the world to attend the African Travel Association’s 34th Congressional Meeting. May 16 -22, 2009, two of the five nomadic, storytelling and story documenting sisters - Kalimah Abioto and Hanifah Abioto will travel 6,577 miles to Cairo, Egypt! They will explore this rich and ancient culture and return to the States to share their stories in photo and on film.

I know these young ladies. They are my dear cousins. Already at the tender age of 21 they have logged many more miles of travel across the world than I have. I'm simultaneously jealous and proud. They are adventures and cultural explorers who document the day-to-day lives and aspirations of young people here and abroad. They give youth who are often overlooked or dismissed - those from the inner-cities, those who are poor, who are different, who are striving, who are invisible - a microphone and a podium to express to the world they are here and relevant.

Most of their travel costs are being covered by The Young Professional’s Network who has partnered with the African Travel Association to cover registration fees, accommodation, travel, and touring events while in Egypt. However, they need assistance with travel to and from Egypt. Therefore, I am asking that join me in making an investment in this amazing project. Any amount is appreciated.
Their budget:
Airfare: $590* 2 ($ 1180)
Visa: 15*2 ($30)
Emergency Fund: 350*2 ($700)
Application Fee: 75*2 ($150.00)
Total request: ($2060)

Photos from their previous explorations can be viewed and are available for purchase online via PayPal at their website - www.ThePeopleFly.com.