We picked an interesting time to launch a non-profit. As of this post, we are in the midst of a global pandemic that has profoundly altered most people’s daily lives, and perhaps their patterns of thought and desire for what their future life will look like.
It seems fitting to share what’s been going on, in spite of the coronavirus, because the needs of our friends in Tanzania have not diminished. In fact, they need us now more than ever. With the world frozen in place, no one is headed to Tanzania to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro in the coming months. And as this is the sole source of income for many of these families, when school DOES go back in session, even those who have managed to get their children to private school in the past will be finding themselves without the resources to continue.
It’s also worth noting that I was told, “Starting a 501(c)3 is a lengthy, expensive process and you might just need to get people to donate without that safe harbor.” Well. I am not one to accept that as truth. So in the month of March and first half of April, we accomplished the following:
- Became an official non-profit organization with the State of Colorado
- Selected a Board of Directors (Amy Stoehr, President; JR Masteller, Treasurer; Stephanie Thai, Secretary)
- Wrote by-laws to govern our actions
- Became an official business entity with the federal government
- Submitted the Form 1023-EZ to apply for our 501(c)3 status
- Opened a bank account so we can start accepting donations made out to Kilimanjaro Kidz Education Foundation (KKEF if you want something shorter to write on your check)
- Set up a PayPal account so that we can start accepting donations online; integration will be implemented yet this month!
The logo you see was created by an exceptionally talented graphic designer, Joelle Fihma Berdowski; I encourage you to engage her services (visit her site). Joelle generously donated her time and creative vision to the cause, and we are tremendously grateful.
I have been able to maintain steady conversation with our Tanzanian brothers to keep tabs on their families’ safety and also to hear their concerns and anxieties. If you’re so inclined, please pray for peace of mind for them.
We are growing something amazing together; thank you for your love, support, and belief!
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