South African GOGGLE DRIVE!

One of the first reports I wrote from Cape Town was about our day with the kids at the Swim Clinic. I was right– it was tough to top that day, and it remains my favorite memory from the entire trip.

I mentioned being very impressed with the “heart” that these kids had to just jump in and try with all their might. Only one or two kids, however, had proper swim goggles and gear. Most were swimming in their underwear.

I want to help change that, and I’m hoping you can contribute in a small way to make a big difference. I’m not talking about changing the world, but you just never know what a little encouragement can do for someone who grows up with VERY little. Getting a package from people who believe in them, saying, “we did this for you and we want you to keep working hard at what you love” might, just might be the motivation they need to stay on track. There are plenty of opportunities surrounding them to get OFF track. 

How many of you guys have a few extra goggles lying around that are in perfectly good condition?  Will you part ways with them? While we go through goggles like underwear, your pair could be the only pair that this kid will ever get, and I promise they will be cherished!  If you want to participate, please start collecting your goggles, your kids’ goggles, and your friends’ goggles.  If your kids have suits in good condition, please set those aside, too.  If you’re in Atlanta, I’ll meet you to pick up.  If you’re outside of Atlanta, just mail them to me.  CONTACT ME HERE if you’re interested in participating.

I realize that most of us are feeling an economic squeeze right now, and it’s tough to ask for money.  Ryan Landy and I also want to send some NEW gear to the kids as well, though.  Ryan has generously offered to match all monetary donations through 11global.  If you would rather donate $5 or $10 (we can get a pair of goggles for $5), you can easily do that through PayPal. CLICK HERE to skip today’s latte and instead send a pair of goggles to these kids in Cape Town.

PS…  IF YOU DONATE and you want to include a small note to these kids — just a few words of encouragement — we’ll throw all the notes in the box along with the gear.  I think that would be VERY cool and a way to add your own personal touch.  Totally optional.

And one final request: To all you bloggers, will you help me tap into the good hearts of the blogosphere?  If you’re reading this and you have a blog, please help me… link to this post to get the word out.  Two blogs (or 50) are better than one!!

Thank you so much.  It won’t take much from each of us, but together, we can really make an impact.

And below is the longer version of the race video from 11global’s home page.  If you want to see the kids from Atlantis, skip to about 2:44 in the video, and you can see about 2 minutes of coverage.  They are phenomenal!!

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