(When a massive earthquake struck the country of Haiti earlier this year, Keystone Clubs immediately rallied to raise funds for the devastated country. Here is the story of one Club and their fundraiser!)
By Tamara J., Pueblo of Pojoaque Boys & Girls Club
Buildings fell, hearts were broken, but hope remains. I come from a small town called Pojoaque which is located in New Mexico. I am a proud member of the Pueblo of Pojoaque Boys & Girls Club where I serve as a staff member and the President of my Keystone Club.
Throughout the year we’ve worked hard to serve our community and make a difference in people’s lives but this goal of ours went to another level when the country of Haiti was struck by a natural disaster. On January 12, 2010, an earthquake tragically woke up this poor country and unfortunately took the lives of many and left thousands badly injured.
Although this was a devastating tragedy, the entire world seemingly united and worked hard to support, and raise money for the victims of this disaster. But there was one particular group of people that not only made an impact on Haiti, but on myself as well. This group that I am talking about is my Boys & Girls Club, a Club that has always worked to change lives for the better!
Springing Into Action to Help!
Once we heard of this disaster, our Keystone Club immediately began to think of ways in which we could help. We first began to take up a collection at a benefit dinner where we were also raising money for the National Keystone Conference. Although we were doing our best to raise money for ourselves, the members of our Keystone Club realized what was more important!
We worked hard that night to raise over $100 for the people of Haiti. We then went out into our community and again asked for donations. This included taking collections at high school basketball games, a local concert, and also reaching out to local businesses. After seeking the help of our community, we then looked at ourselves. Our Keystone Club along with other clubs within our Boys and Girls Club also gave donations and together we reached our goal.
Overall we were able to raise $2,194.88! This amount of money is nowhere near the actual amount needed to bring this country back to life but it is definitely a start. Buildings fell, hearts were broken, but hope remains. I am proud to say that this small, Native American, rural community of Pojoaque reached out to thousands of people and brought hope to many who didn’t have any.