In October 2005, Dr. Wayne Silver spoke to First Year Experience classes about the American Friends of Kenya, Inc.  He spoke of  his wife's desire to help Kenyans and of her commitment and persistence in making this organization a reality.

We learned about Kenyan culture, education, and needs.
Although education has been free in Kenya since 2003, books are not. 

Dr. Silver spoke of the need for books. He mentioned a local woman  who had noticed her children were using new texts this semester asked the school what happened to the old texts.  She learned they were going to be disposed of, so she asked if she could donate them to Kenyan schools.

Medical facilities are lacking too. We heard of the 32-bed hospital that served over a million people.
( I congratulate Dr. Silver for his bravery upon entering the hospital when he had a kidney stone!)
 Medical supplies and used equipment are being donated to this hospital.

Assisting Kenyans

Dr, Silver invited the classes to help the Kenyans if they wished. No one was pressured.

When discussing American poverty, Dr. Silver also emphasized that his desire to help Kenyans is not at the expense of  helping Americans. He mentioned some of the numerous activities where he, his wife and members of the America Friends of Kenya, Inc. donate their time.  He sees the Kenyan volunteer experience as an extension of his service to others.

How can you help?

1.  Stay informed, visit their website http://www.afkinc.org/ , and read their bimonthly newsletter.

2.  Tell  friends about American Friends of Kenya, Inc.

3.  Ask local libraries, schools and businesses to donate books, computers, and school and office supplies.

4. Ask community medical professionals for donations.

5. Contribute time -- pack books & medical supplies, take care of mailings, maintain website.

6. Contribute money to this non-profit public charity.

7. Participate in  spring and fall walkathons.

9. Visit Kenya during summer 2006..

9.  Contact Dr. Wayne Silver wasilver@snet.net with comments, questions, or suggestions..