Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro

Dear Family and Friends,

It brings me great joy to inform you of my next mission to serve the people of Swaziland, Africa. I am partnering with Kenya Airways to climb the tallest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro.

I am in the early stages of developing a fundraising opportunity named “On the Road to Swaziland: One Man’s Mission to Serve.” All donations will directly impact the Widows and Orphans of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Swaziland through our U.S. based non-profit, The Compassionate Life Foundation. Donation possibilities are as follows:

Gold Level: $1 USD (10 ZAR)/meter of altitude climbed

Silver Level: 50 cents (5 ZAR)/meter of altitude climbed

Bronze Level: 10 cents (1 ZAR)/meter climbed

(Of course, all donations will be accepted. However, these giving levels will be rewarded with some sort of commemorative distinction. )

Because of the processes involved to get something of this magnitude started, I ask for your thoughts and prayers as I undertake this massive effort. I have already began my training for this climb and have also approached South African Companies for their support.

All donations will be presented at our 1st Annual "Sanctuary For Swaziland" fundraising dinner on September 19th, 2009. This particular event will take place in Michigan in the United States. More information will be provided in the near future.

This message is to get you excited about the real possibility of making a difference in this world. Join me, once again in our fight against Poverty and Disease in Africa!

Thank you and God Bless You!

Derek T. Van Dam