How can I get sponsored? I want to go to Kenya to help build a school next summber, but it costs a lot.?

Question

There's an organization called Leaders Today that does great things to help the world. One of them -- something that I would love to participate in -- is gathering volunteers and having them go to Kenya to build a school. I'd love to do it, but it's very expensive. It costs 4,895 CAD (about $4,819), but that's only from a certain airport (I have to pay for the ticket that will get me there, and prices are only going up). Plus, I have to pay for a lot of shots, some spending money in case of emergencies, a special insurance, etc etc. The point is, it's not cheap. I'm only seventeen, and I won't be allowed to work very much during the year. Furthermore, my dad says that if I spend my own money on the trip to Kenya, he won't help me pay for college. Does anyone know of a way that I could be sponsored or somehow get large donations?

Answer 1

My best idea would be to research up on different grants.  I am sure there are plenty of grants that would be willing to sponsor someone willing to go to Kenya and work for the common good.  Try looking up some grants on the internet.  You will probably have to write a few essays, but I would say it's the best chance you have.

Answer 2

Oprah had a show on this very thing.  But if I remember right, it was a group of high school students that went.  I think they were funded by doing different fund raisers.  Maybe if you go to Oprah.com you can find out a little more on the subject.  What a wonderful thing to want to do.  When I saw that particular show on Oprah,I thought it was fantastic.  If I was younger I sure would be interested also.  I wish you a lot of luck on making your dream come true.  Let us all know how it turns out for you.