We are a group of ordinary people from Christchurch and Bournemouth who had a burning desire to
go to Burkina Faso and help in any way we could. We are all members of The Family Church Christchurch, which has a history of community involvement and sending teams on short term missions.
Joanna spoke to us powerfully about the needs of women and children in Burkina Faso and the vision
ACTS have to make a difference to their lives. They provide for immediate needs for medical help, food and shelter, but also the long term needs through education, vocational training and literacy work. They aim to empower people to help themselves.
The team comprised of 12 people who have wide range of skills and experience.
They included:
| Nurse - Clinical site manager: |
PA in a large organisation |
| Practice nurse - GP Surgery |
Chief Executive (Retired) |
| Registered mental health nurse |
Distribution controller |
| Radiographer |
Care/Health worker |
| Nursery nurse |
Telecoms engineer |
| Former care home proprieter |
French National (child teaching experience ) |
The team agreed a fundraising Target, which included the cost of air fares,
accommodation and travel whilst in Burkina Faso. It also included a financial a gift to ACTS which
desperately needs funds for the daily feeding of 700 children and providing more accommodation for
orphans. Team members paid for their own expenses as far as possible.
Whilst in Burkina Faso we helped in many ways, as requested by ACTS.
They had particular needs for:
- Medical expertise
- Health education - especially concerning AIDS
- Child development
- English and French teaching
- Management training
- Encouraging and empowering women
- Vehicle maintenance
- Building and practical skills
ACTS also asked for team members to work with the local churches - preaching, teaching and
providing inspiration for church and individual development. |
