My Nonprofit Reviews

When I first met Pat Ortman, I was a participant in a Women's Caucus for Art show in Takoma Park that benefited Girls Gotta Run Foundation. I read the photos and heard the story, and I knew I wanted to help. I applied for a Fulbright to Ethiopia with a proposal to organize a visit to meet the girls while in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Connecting in country proved a challenge since internet, server, and power outages are frequent in Addis, but Pat stepped in from DC and made a call which allowed me to connect with the group. In August 2009, I taught one of the teams' English class with my colleagues (all teachers), and we shared sweet and salty tea over some really inspiring conversations. They taught me new words in Amharic, and it was clear that their lives and opportunities are dramatically increased by the resources that Girls Gotta Run Foundation. To actually hold their hands, embrace them, take photos, share stories was one of the most significant experiences I have had in adulthood. When I returned back to Philadelphia, I arranged a show of Women's Caucus for Art work at Holy Family University to benefit GGRF, and we raised money through art sales, donations, and a raffle. I have been independently fundraising through the sale of my photographs of women and children in Ethiopia, and I will continue to do with no stop. A coffee table book is planned for future fundraising. Overall, I am extremely pleased with my experiences with this nonprofit.

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