"Christ won't let the church walk away from the AIDS emergency."- Bono
Well, we are not walking away from it anymore. In fact, we are running for it. Many of us have heard the call to action. We have acknowledged that we must do something. We must love "in actions and in truth". But, some are still wondering how to get involved. So we asked ourselves, "What can three young pastors do to love those impacted by AIDS with that kind of action?"
On October 22nd all three of us are running in the Chicago Marathon. That's right, 26.2 grueling miles. But we're not just running this race to lose a few pounds and feel better about ourselves. We are going to be running on behalf of hurting people in Zambia, Africa. Through Team World Vision, we will be raising awareness, funds, and even asking people to sponsor children in Zamtan, Zambia, a community that our church has been deeply involved in for a number of years.
Facts about Zambia
86% of the people live below the poverty line
50% are unemployed
As low as 10% of the people have access to clean water
Few have access to proper health care
1.1 million people in Zambia are living with HIV and AIDS
30.8 years is the average life expectancy
650,000 children in Zambia have been orphaned due to HIV and AIDS
The numbers are staggering. But there is great news. You can help us do something about it. Please join with us in our efforts to make a difference in Zambia. There are two very easy ways to support our efforts.
1) You can make an online donation right now through this website by clicking on the SPONSOR ME NOW button at the bottom of the page
OR
2) You can sponsor a child for $35 per month (to request a child to sponsor on our behalf, simply e-mail your request to mchitwoo@worldvision.org and put Zambia Child Sponsorship in the subject line. Also include your mailing address).
We truly want to thank you for your generous support!
In Him,
Darren Whitehead -Director of Student Impact
Paul JanVanRensburg -Director of Nex Gen Ministries-Willow Dupage
Jon Peacock -Director of Axis