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The Danger of Short-Term Mission Trips

Short-term mission trips can get a bad wrap and with some good reason. While many think they aren’t effective, if done responsibly they can make a difference for a community and you!

By: DJ Schuetze

DJ Schuetze is the President of Door of Faith Orphanage: Changing lives through serving others; President of Strong Tower Ministries: Helping people fulfill their life’s purpose; Author of: Reciprocal Missions – Short-term Missions That Serve Everyone.

As much as I promote short-term mission trips, it would be disingenuous not to point out the genuine risk of taking one. It’s very common for people going on short-term trips to go in with expectations and goals that are suddenly thrown out. Sometimes, something completely unexpected happens. They might be seeking to change other people’s lives, but wind up having their lives upended and transformed in the process. Some people have a defining moment, a revelation that changes the direction of their lives forever. Going on a short-term mission trip might put the life you know, and are comfortable with, at risk.

Short-term mission trips

IDP Camp in Kenya Photo by: Heather Newgen

Recently, my wife and I helped host a dinner party for a group of local missionaries. We hosted about fifty people representing eleven different ministries: some people serving in orphan care, some in medical outreach, some in education. We had people from a ministry for deaf children, others helping special needs children, and others working in straight up evangelism. One thing every missionary in the group had in common was how they got started. Every missionary I’ve ever met got their first taste of missions and international service while on a short-term missions trip. They had experienced their defining moment.

Aside from getting their start in missions on a short-term trip, the people assembled at this recent dinner party had a few other things in common. Most of them had never even considered themselves missionary material before that first trip, some still don’t see themselves as missionaries, but they have all found a purpose in their lives that is bigger than they’d ever considered. They would not be living in a foreign country, doing something they love, if they had decided to put off a short-term mission trip until, “the timing was right”, “next year”, “when the kids are older”, or any one of dozens of other reasons people give for not going. They took a chance, and it made all the difference in their lives. With unexpected joy, they walked away from the “comfortable life” in the US to serve others for a season. They had found purpose.

Obviously, not everyone who goes on a short-term trip becomes a long-term missionary. Not everyone who walks into a church becomes a pastor, but a few do. Not everyone who plays football in high-school will go pro, but now and then, it becomes their calling. Until we get a taste of something, until we experience something outside of our normal life, we cannot know what it’s all about.

Is there any guarantee that you’ll experience a life-changing revelation on short-term mission trips? Of course not. What you can expect on a short-term missions trip is to have your world expanded, to have new eyes for the needs of people around the globe, a new understanding of the needs in your own life. Travel expands us in countless ways, even more so if we seek to get to know others at a deep level, to serve alongside others, and experience life in cultures that are entirely new to us.

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” Mark Twain

I have a friend who was sure he hated fish and seafood in general. Being raised in the mid-west by a mom who was a lousy cook didn’t lend itself to great fish dining experiences. Once he moved to the west coast, he was exposed to fresh fish, prepared by talented chefs. Suddenly his eyes were opened to what great fish, shrimp, and seafood were all about. Until he tasted it first hand, he had no idea what the experience was; he had been living within his limited experiences and missing out on something great. Ultimately, fish became his go-to dining choice whenever possible. His dining world was expanded by traveling to a new location and trying something new.

Should you go on short-term mission trips because there are needs around the world? Yes. Should you go on a trip to make an impact on others and to serve others. Of course. But, if you take a trip, please be aware of the genuine danger that exists when you step out like this. Your world will be expanded, your understanding of others will grow, and you might have that defining moment that will change you forever.

The life you know and are comfortable with will be put at risk on a trip, but nothing of great value has ever been accomplished without risk. Don’t reach the end of your limited time here on earth with the regret of putting off short-term mission trips until it’s too late. Go, serve, learn, give, let your life be rocked.

January 2, 2019 admin

Kenyan Schools-How to Sponsor a Child’s Education

Rising mandatory fees for Kenyan schools and social issues are causing a decline in kids getting an education. While there’s no easy solution, there’s something people can do to help–sponsor a child’s education.

“We need some initial set-ups, which is $250 to get the uniforms, textbooks, shoes and bedding all bought. We also need monthly tuition fees, which depending on the grade-level and type of school are approximately $60-75/month. I have some kids that are sponsored but not 100% covered so I need a bit of “add-on,” Kim Conley Coble, the VP of Finance for Start With One Kenyanonprofit said.

Kim Conely Coble with kids in Kenyan Schools she works with Photo Courtesy of Kim Conely Coble

Coble and her husband Bill moved from the states to Kenya and founded the organization Start With One Kenya in 2010. They focus on helping families have clean water, getting kids an education and breaking the cycle of poverty.

“Kenyan schools are supposedly “free” up to the 8th grade. But they still need to supply their own uniforms and sometimes desks and textbooks depending on the situation. In the 8th grade they take a test (think SAT). Depending on the score they get invited to join high school. But the high schools are not free – so the tuition payments keep many really awesome kids from being able to continue on to high school. Also the best and most typical schools are boarding. The picture above is at a boarding school for younger kids (below 8th grade) which is shocking to most Americans but is very common in Kenya. We want kids to be able to stay at home but in many cases there just isn’t a good environment for these kids so the boarding school is the best thing”, Coble told The Voluntourist.

“To be clear the $250 is only ONCE – not every year. Think when you send a kid off to college, but in Kenya it’s high school. We have to buy each kid a mattress and other bedding, uniforms, school shoes, a PE outfit, bowl, plate and utensils, school supplies etc. So that covers all that. Then, in the ongoing monthly fee of $65-75/month that covers the tuition. We have a bit in there to cover the ongoing supplies so we don’t have to ask for that one time again,” she added.

Kim and Bill Coble

Anyone can donate to SWOK and the proceeds go towards helping kids get an education. While full sponsorship is needed, any amount is appreciated and beneficial.

Below is a breakdown on Kenyan schools and general overview provided by SWOK.

1. School Levels

A. ECD. Early Childhood Development Schools equals the American Kindergarten. Children aged 3-5 attend ECD schools. ECDs can be either public or private.

B. Primary Kenyan Schools

Grades 1-8 comprise Kenyan Primary Schools. Primary Schools can be either public or private. Some Primary Schools also board children after a certain age. Attendance at a Primary School is mandated by the Kenyan constitution but economic factors can impact a child’s opportunity to attend Primary School. The Kenya government announced ‘free” Primary education in 2003. However, there are still many fees that need to be covered as well as school uniforms, and often times a school desk and textbooks are also required to be supplied by parents. The public Primary schools are typically woefully underfunded in both supplies and number of teachers. It is not uncommon to have over 70 students in a single class. Because of these factors the private primary schools usually score much better than the public school in the critical 8th grade KCPE test (see below under 5. National testing for further explanation)

Kim Conely Coble with kids Start With One Kenya has helped get sponsored for school.

C. Secondary Kenyan Schools / High Schools. Secondary Schools are for 4 years and each grade is call a Form (Form 1 is the equivalent of 9th grade etc.). These schools are both private and public. Most of the children in the SWOK sponsorship program are in private Secondary schools or in national/county high schools which are public schools. There are two major hurdles for a Kenya child to be able to attend a high school. One being the KCPE test and resulting score and the second being the funds to go to high school because Secondary/High School is not free. Funds have to be available for tuition, uniforms, school supplies, textbooks and boarding living items. Thus, there is a great need for educational sponsorship since money often times prohibits some great potential minds from progressing forward! See below under 5. National testing for more information.

For ECD and Primary school levels, typically a Private school is preferred due to the better 8th grade KCPE scoring the private students achieve. For example, in the county where the Gituamba JKC Primary school is located, for the KCPE ranking the top 20 schools are all private. However, this changes for Secondary school level where a National or County level Public school is considered top. The seats available for these government schools are very limited and it is considered a major achievement to secure an invitation to join. Thus, the result is that most secondary students attend private schools, which is an achievement in of itself to score high enough to go to any Secondary school.

2. Boarding vs Living at Home

Boarding schools are very much the “norm” in Kenya especially for Secondary/High schools. This is because the educational system is based on the English educational system and the number of high schools are not as prolific as in America. Fewer Secondary schools consolidate very limited resources and it forces the focus to be on the top Primary students being invited to attend. Boarding schools also have another benefit of insuring that the children are able to focus on their studies. A boarding school ensures the child is being taken care of and fed and allowed to study rather than splitting attention of working a farm, collecting water and firewood and then trying to study. Since many of the sponsored children are from homes where it is not possible for him/her to receive an education due to financial hardship and other factors, most of the older children are in boarding schools.

Note: Regarding the Start With One sponsored children, all of the ECD children live at home. Many of the SWOK sponsored Primary school age children, due to home environments situations, are generally boarded. All of the SWOK Secondary students are in boarding schools.

3. The school year runs January – December. There are 3 terms per school year:

Term 1: January-March
Term 2: May-July
Term 3: September-November

4. Grading

Grading is based on 500 points. The grading system is applied more rigorously than in the American systems. Here in Kenya 250 points is average. Typically in the lower Primary levels the marks achieved are higher, then as the child progresses to the upper levels the marks are harder to achieve so we see lower marks on the grade reports. We encourage our sponsored kids to reach for over 300 marks. 325 marks is considered to be very, very good and anything over that is considered to be amazing and quite exception! When we have children that bring in less than 250 marks we might need to place the child on probation risking be dropped from the sponsorship, depending on the specific circumstances.

5. National Testing for Kenyan Schools

In Kenya there are two VERY important tests or Educational “Rites of Passage” the children go through. One, the KCPE (Kenya Certificate for Primary Education) is at the end of the Class 8 (8th grade) and the second is at the end of their Form 4 (“HS Senior’) the KCSE (Kenya Certificate for Secondary Education)

At the end of the 8th grade, the child takes the KCPE. The scoring of this will determine IF the child will be invited to join a Secondary/High School. The best analogy for this is what American students go through with the SAT and then college acceptance – but in Kenya it happens in the 8th grade and for admission to Secondary/High school. Also, in Kenya to achieve a high enough score on the KCPE to be invited to a Kenya National or County government school is a major achievement similar to what we would consider “Ivy League”.

Education sponsored girls that earned an outing to Lake Naivasha and Cresent Island to learn about the beautiful Kenya wildlife Photo Courtesy of Kim Conely Coble

Then at the end of the Form 4 year (HS Senior) the student sits for the KCSE. This determines IF and what level of continuing education is available. Having a KCSE and the resulting score will follow the student for the rest of their life. The KCSE is becoming more and more important as most jobs now have the KCSE and a certain level score as baseline requirements before being allowed to apply for most positions or even entrance to things like Polytechnic training etc. Given that many Kenyans are stopped at the education grade 8 level due to the KCPE and tuition payment to high school, attending high school is a major diving line in the socio economic levels of Kenya society and will become more so as time goes on.

In the Kenya culture the KCPE and KCSE are considered to be so important that there are National Prayers Days for the students to do well on the tests and there is much fanfare at the schools and in churches surrounding the Class 8 and Form 4 candidates that will be sitting for the exams. Then when the results are released, the papers are dedicated to the results and the listing of the students’ scores and which schools ranked best. The KCPE and KCSE are absolutely annual national phenomenon in Kenya!

6. Uniforms

All schools at a minimum require that each child have at least 1 or 2 uniform sets, a track suit, black school shoes and athletic shoes. Each school has its own supply requirements that we must follow. These supplies are included in the educational sponsorship funds.

Looking sharp in their new school uniforms
Photo Courtesy of Kim Conely Coble

7. Average Costs for Kenyan Schools (depending on circumstances and the specific school): Costs includes tuition, textbooks, uniforms, school supplies and personal effects if boarding:

A. ECD: $600 per year
B. Primary School: $650 per year
C. Secondary School: $750 per year
D. Initial Boarding Set-up Expenses for Kenyan Schools: $250. This cost covers items a parent would buy when sending their child off to college.

Items typically procured are uniforms, shoes, mattress, sheets, pillow, bed spread, blanket, mosquito net, towels, and basin, bowl, plate, mug, cutlery, and personal care items.
E. Potential other expenditures depending on the type of school: desk, textbooks, exam fees, school trips, extra tuition between school terms, and personal effects for each term for boarding students.

For more information please visit SWOK.

December 21, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Baby2Baby Supporters Jessica Alba, Jenna Dewan Attend Holiday Party for Kids in Need

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 16: (L-R) Jessica Alba, Rachel Zoe, Michelle Monaghan, and Jenna Dewan attend the Baby2Baby Holiday Party Presented by FRAME at Montage Beverly Hills on December 16, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Baby2Baby)

The Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills was the place to be this weekend thanks to the Los Angeles based non-profit. The organization founded by Kelly Sawyer Patricof and Norah Weinstein, serves hundreds of thousands of children living in poverty every year across the country. Every year Baby2Baby throws parties to raise money, awareness and to give back. And this event was designed to create an unforgettable experience for the children, most of whom go without celebrations of any kind.

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 16: Guest attends the Baby2Baby Holiday Party Presented by FRAME at Montage Beverly Hills on December 16, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Baby2Baby)

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 16: An interior view at the Baby2Baby Holiday Party Presented by FRAME at Montage Beverly Hills on December 16, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Baby2Baby)

Throughout the afternoon hundreds of children, their siblings and parents participated in the holiday-themed celebration that included a toy shop, arts and crafts, photos with Santa, backpack decorating, a festive lunch and a very special gift exchange. Board Members, Angels and celebrity supporters were there with their own children and matched with a child served by Baby2Baby, gifting them with essential items including warm clothing, shoes, underwear, pajamas, hygiene products, books and presents from their wish list.

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 16: Rachel Zoe (far R) and families attend the Baby2Baby Holiday Party Presented by FRAME at Montage Beverly Hills on December 16, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Baby2Baby)

Additional attendees included Vanessa Bryant, Chriselle Lim, Rebecca Gayheart, Emma and Jens Grede, Katherine Power, Lisa Ling, October Gonzalez, Jennifer Meyer,Jenni Kayne-Ehrlich, Kendra Scott and more.

LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 16: Jessica Alba (far L), Cash Warren (2nd from R), and family attend the Baby2Baby Holiday Party Presented by FRAME at Montage Beverly Hills on December 16, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Baby2Baby)

In addition to sponsoring the holiday party, FRAME employees have been volunteering at Baby2Baby every month, where volunteers have been working on a variety of projects that give back to the children served by the organization. To date, Baby2Baby has distributed over 50 million items to children living in poverty. For more information please visit http://baby2baby.org/.

December 17, 2018 admin Leave a comment

How Shelter Hope Pet Shop Came Together with the Community to Rescue Animals from the Woolsey Fire

Last month Southern California suffered great loss as a result of the Woolsey fire in Ventura County. Three people were killed and over 1500 structures were destroyed, including the houses of Miley Cyrus, Gerard Butler, Robyn Thicke, Camille Grammar and Neil Young. Countless animals also lost their home, but a community and several organizations like Shelter Hope Pet Shop came together to rescue as many as possible.

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

Shelter Hope Pet Shop, a local Los Angeles nonprofit is used to rescuing animals. It’s what they do. However, the volunteer-run organization wasn’t prepared for the amount of animals they received during the Woolsey fire. But, thanks to the local community who brought donations and essential items, they saved many lives. Shelter Hope Pet Shop inherited numerous stray dogs who were found injured, as well as pets who were relinquished because their families had to evacuate and couldn’t take them along. The nonprofit took in 200 animals in a matter of hours.

“We did not have enough kennels or supplies,” states Kim Sill, founder of Shelter Hope Pet Shop. “I called mall security and they opened up a vacant store for me right away. Later that afternoon many of us realized we would be sleeping at the mall, so we posted a plea on Facebook for supplies and volunteers, and within minutes people showed up with pet food, kennels and bedding. It was a miracle that we managed to make an evacuation center out of nothing.”

In addition, there were many animals in foster homes that were located in the fire areas that had to be rescued. Therefore, they all had to evacuate and stay at the Shelter Hope Pet Shop in the mall. Also some of the Shelter Hope Pet Shop dogs were at a luxury boarding facility, so Kim went to get them. There were other dogs there (who belonged to families who were out of town) so she took those dogs as well since they were stranded there.

Janss Marketplace, in Thousand Oaks where Shelter Hope Pet Shop is located, donated two vacant stores during the evacuations to accommodate the growing number of animals and volunteers who needed a safe place to stay. “We are very thankful to people like Kim, at Shelter Hope Pet Shop, and many of our other tenants who stepped up and provided support to our most vulnerable during this difficult time,” states Sanford Sigal, president and CEO of NewMark Merrill Companies, Inc. “From now through the New Year, we will continue to try and provide happy memories to all our visitors, mixed in with funds and other ways to address the needs of our shoppers.”

Sill and volunteers are back on their two feet, but their four-legged Woolsey victims are still waiting for a new place to call home, including Angel who was found burned during the fires.

“I’m proud to be a part of a community that stayed strong through tragedy and pulled together to help animals and people in need,” states Sill. “We are a community that won’t be defined by tragedy.”

Shelter Hope Pet Shop would like to offer their donated supplies to those in the surrounding areas who are still in need assistance. “The community has come together like never before,” continues Sill. “And we want to give back to others who are still in need.”

The public can visit Shelter Hope Pet Shop at Janss Marketplace, 275 N. Moorpark Rd. East, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360, to adopt a companion, or call 805-379-3538 for more details on the Shop’s supplies being donated.

Shelter Hope Pet Shop is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, showcasing rescue and shelter animals up for adoption at their pet store in Thousand Oaks. The space, donated by NewMark Merrill which manages Janns Marketplace shopping center, is run entirely by volunteers. Adoption includes spay/neuter, microchip, shots, and a certificate for a free vet exam at participating vet clinics.

In addition, the organization offers a complementary grooming and training session, as well as a certificate at a premier doggy daycare facility. Shelter Hope Pet Shop strives to make a difference in the community, and through their business model, they are working with pet stores around the nation to adopt shelter animals instead of selling dogs from puppy mills. For more information,
visit http://www.shelterhopepetshop.org/.

December 17, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Katie Cleary on Her Bold New Animal Activism Campaign

Katie Cleary advocates for animals through her nonprofit Peace 4 Animals and raises money for organizations fighting to protect wildlife. But over the next few weeks she’s raising something else–awareness for plant-based diets. In a bold new campaign Los Angeles drivers will see billboards that feature a baby lamb, turkey and pig that reads, “Choose Compassion This Holiday Season #GoPlantBased.

Katie Cleary jumped to fame as a contestant on the first season of “America’s Next Top Model,” and now the actress and model is using her status to make a positive impact. LA drivers in Carson, along the I-110 Freeway, near SouthBay Pavilion and anyone heading heading southbound to Long Beach/San Pedro will see the billboards. The philanthropist explained why this cause is so important.

“It’s about making the connection to what’s on people’s plates,” Katie Cleary told The Voluntourist. “It’s about where the animals come from, and the fact that they are living, breathing, feeling beings who deserve to live out their lives with dignity and respect.”

She added, “Millions of animals are killed during the holidays for consumption when we should really be celebrating life and adopting a more compassionate lifestyle,” states Cleary. “The holiday season is an ideal time to encourage people to incorporate a plant-based diet and is a gratifying step towards a more compassionate, peaceful world, which we need now more than ever!”

In 2012 Katie Cleary launched Peace 4 Animals, which has a big mission. Spreading awareness and encouraging a plant-based diet is among the many critical issues Peace 4 Animals advocates for, along with rescuing farm animals from slaughter.

According to its website, the organization aims, “to create a world that lives in harmony with all animals and that works to protect them against harmful human interference. Peace 4 Animals helps to rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for domestic animals. They educate children and the public on how to co-exist with wild animals and how to protect these animals in their natural habitat. They also strive to increase awareness in order to respect all life and put an end to the abuse and neglect of all of our earth’s species.”

In addition to everything mentioned above, Katie Cleary is an award-winning producer and the creator of World Animal News, delivering breaking news to readers worldwide. She is also the executive producer of the 2012 documentary, “Give Me Shelter,” which premiered on Netflix, and she’s currently working on her second documentary, “We Are One,” which highlights people around the world fighting to protect animals from extinction.

December 16, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Animal Abuse in Morocco-How Tourists Can Help

Morocco is an unforgettable adventure and colorful experience. It’s an exciting place to visit, however, it’s also challenging. Animal abuse in Morocco is common throughout the country and it’s upsetting to see. But there’s something tourists can do to help.

As I walked through the famed Medina of Marrakech for the first time I screamed. A man had tied a rope around the tongue of his donkey and was literally dragging it through the streets. The donkey was trying to fight what the man was doing and dug his heels in the dirt. But that only annoyed him more and he yanked the rope harder.

Medina of Marrakech
Photo by: Heather Newgen

I yelled at the man to “stop” and to untie the animal. Unfazed by my shock, he glared at me and kept going. I stood in silence for minutes and cried as I unsuccessfully tried to get the image out of my head. A boy from a nearby shop ran out to apologize and said,” We tell him all the time not to do that, however he doesn’t listen or care.”

I was saddened and outraged. This wasn’t the first time I’d seen animal abuse in Morocco. This was my third time visiting the beautiful country and unfortunately I’d witnessed cruelty like this before.

Jemaa el-Fnaa
Photo by: Heather Newgen

As I continued walking I saw others excessively whip their sickly looking donkeys. I saw people make them pull heavy carts overloaded with materials, while others forced theirs to stand in the beating sun without water. It was crushing.

When I finally got to Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square of Marrakech, I was shaking. And unfortunately that wasn’t the end of the animal abuse in Morocco I was exposed to. There were snake charmers and monkeys with a tight chain around their neck. They were dragged around like toys. Why? So tourists can take photos with them. As a result, owners continue the gross mistreatment of the animals because tourists keep paying them.

To be clear, if you take a selfie with these animals you’re supporting animal cruelty. Of course not everyone abuses their animals. Many treat them like family. But many also view working animals like donkeys and camels as just that–a way to earn an income and nothing more. However, there is an organization called SPANA that tries to improves the lives and welfare of the animals through education and training. They also provide free medical treatment to the animals.

While animal abuse in Morocco is jarring to see, there’s something travelers can do to help. Please watch the vlog for helpful tips.

Produced by: Heather Newgen

December 14, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon–Which One to See?

With its desert landscape and picturesque photo ops, the Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona has exploded in popularity.

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter:
@hnvoluntourist

In recent years, Page has become a hotspot for travelers. The city was initially founded in 1957 as a housing community for workers building the Glen Canyon Dam. However, the area now attracts over 3 million visitors a year. The small Northern Arizona town offers endless adventures for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who wants to enjoy an unforgettable holiday.

Antelope Canyon is just one of the many reasons people visit Page. The bright orange glowing sandstone caves are not to be missed. The most renowned ones are the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. However, you can only access them by guided tours since they’re on Navajo Nation territory. Each Antelope Canyon has its similarities, but also distinct differences. While I highly recommend seeing both if you can, you can’t go wrong with either choice.

Upper Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Lower Antelope

I took a tour with Dixie Ellis and loved it. My guide Tilford was personable and knowledgable and the canyon was so beautiful that it almost didn’t look real. The tour was $40, not including gratuity or the required $8 Navajo Nation fee, and I was able to book a reservation the day of.

Heather Newgen in Lower Antelope Canyon

Pros

-It’s less crowded than the Upper Antelope Canyon (although it has become busier lately)

-It’s less expensive

-There’s an entrance and an exit, which manages the flow of people

-Better lighting

Lower Antelope Canyon
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Cons

-There are several stairs throughout the Antelope Canyon guests must take. So if you have physical limitations this could be an issue.

-It’s a 10-15 minute walk to the entrance. Again if you have physical limitations this could be an issue.

-There is no photography tour

Lower Antelope Canyon
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Lower Antelope Canyon Tips

There’s a free parking lot to leave your car. There are porta potties and a bottle of hand sanitizer is strapped to a post near the front where you check in. Before the tour there will be a show with a Navajo local who does traditional tribal dances. Tips aren’t mandatory, but it’s a nice gesture.

Heather Newgen in Lower Antelope Canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon

The majestic canyon is becoming one of the most well-known photographed locations in the U.S. due to its layers of vibrant coloring and famous beam of light that shines through the rock formations.

For this tour you must book in advance because of its popularity. If you want to see the beam of light, it’s about $30 more since it’s considered “primetime.” I went with Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours and paid $74.00, which included the $8.00 required Navajo Nation fee.

Pros

-You see the famed beam of light if you go during the peak hours 10:30am to 1:00pm

-A photography tour is offered

Photography Tour in the Upper Antelope Canyon

Cons

-It’s crowded

-There’s no exit So you have to go back the way you entered, which can be challenging with the mobs of people.

-It’s darker

-You can’t walk to the entrance. So you’re taken in a truck and it’s about a 15 minute drive. You’re placed in the back of the vehicle, however, the seats are comfortable and it’s almost completely covered. That said, you will still experience wind and dust kicking up in your face. In addition, the fumes can be overwhelming at times, but the it’s worth the hassle.

The famous beam of light in the Upper Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona

Upper Antelope Tips

Just like the Lower Antelope Canyon tour, there will be a show with a Navajo local who does traditional tribal dances. There is also a small jewelry stand where you can buy authentic Native American items. Make your reservation well in advance because this tour sells out quickly. There’s also a free parking lot and restrooms.

Where is the Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon

Located just under two hours from Zion. A little over two hours from the South Rim Grand Canyon. Two and a half hours from Bryce Canyon and three hours from the North Rim Grand Canyon. Page, Arizona is ideal for exploring America’s prized national parks and Navajo Nation Reservation.

Heather Newgen in Lower Antelope Canyon

Time to Go

June, July and August is incredibly hot, but the light is perfect. It’s also when many travelers go so beware of massive crowds.

April through September is still busy and the middays tours sell out fast.

Mid October through Mid March is a great time to visit, however, you may not see the beam of light.

December 14, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Awards $1.6 Million in Grants

LOS ANGELES DODGERS FOUNDATION AWARDS OVER $1.6 MILLION IN 2018 GRANTS TO LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS IMPACTING OVER 600,000 YOUTH

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) made a huge announcement today. For 2018, cumulative grant donations of over $1.6 million have been award. 70 local nonprofit organizations will benefit as a result. Over 600,000 underserved youth in some of the most challenged neighborhoods of Los Angeles will be impacted. These awards are part of the Dodgers Foundation annual grants program which disseminates funds three times a year to organizations who fall within its three pillars – Education + Literacy, Health + Wellness and Sports + Recreation.

“Our city is full of amazing organizations serving youth who need help accessing resources and opportunities, thus leveling the playing field,” said Nichol Whiteman, Executive Director of LADF. “We consider these organizations allies, true partners, working alongside us to transform lives, thereby making Los Angeles a better place. Our focus has been, and will continue to be supporting organizations who allow youth to thrive regardless of neighborhood or socioeconomic status.”

A 2018 survey of grantees showed that on average 87% of the youth served by grantees met eligibility requirements for free or reduced lunch at their current school, a common indicator of need in public education. 46% of youth served are female, 71% are Latino and the highest percentage of youth served are ages 11-13.

Education + Literary – 44% of funding. Grant recipients included organizations that are committed to literacy, middle school engagement and college access.

Education + Literacy Snapshot

$32,000 to Science of Sport, Science of Baseball providing lessons and events to 1,000 3rd-5th grade students in the Inglewood Unified School District to get them excited about math and science
$20,000 to CASA post-secondary readiness and support services for 100 youth in foster care
$10,000 to Camino Nuevo Charter Academy providing 2,200 youth from the highest need communities in LA – MacArthur Park, Pico-Union, Koreatown Wilshire Corridor & Echo Park – college access and success services to help them prepare for, get admitted to and graduate from college
$15,000 to Operation Progress for students in Watts to participate in after-school activities, paired up and mentored by an LAPD Officer
$20,000 to Aquarium of the Pacific to provide scholarships for students at Title 1 schools throughout LA to visit the aquarium and engage in marine science education

Health + Wellness – 23% of funding. Grant recipients included organizations that provide direct health, nutrition and fitness services to students at school or program sites.

Health + Wellness Snapshot

$10,000 to Common Threads to deliver cooking and nutrition education to children and families in the Inglewood Unified School District
$30,000 to just keep livin’ Foundation to support active lifestyle and nutrition programming for high school students in Inglewood and South LA
$25,000 to Peer Health Exchange to train college students to teach skills based health curriculum to 2,000 high school students in Watts and Inglewood.
$10,000 to SCHOOL Kids Yoga & Mindfulness to bring yoga and mindfulness training to 2,500 students at Title I Schools
$15,000 to Woodcraft Rangers for after-school fitness and play programs at 18 elementary and middle schools in Huntington Park and South Gate

Sports + Recreation – 25% of funding. Grant recipients included organizations focused on inclusion, preservation and promotion of sports, youth development through sport and promotion of safe places to play.

$5,000 to Miracle League LA to provide life changing experiences for children with special needs which includes complimentary play on LADF’s first Universally Accessible Dodgers Dreamfield in Baldwin Hills
$15,000 to Natasha Watley Foundation to provide sports programming for girls and develop the next level of aspiring coaches in the San Fernando Valley
$50,000 to Kaboom! build a playground in Alhambra Park
$225,000 to Dodgers RBI (Reviving Baseball In Inner Cities) Affiliate Partners to offset field maintenance and umpire fees associated with their delivery of the Dodgers RBI program serving 9,300 boys and girls at 69 locations in Los Angeles (City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation – East and South Agencies, Major League Baseball Youth Academy Compton, Boys and Girls Clubs of West San Gabriel Valley, Los Angeles Boys and Girls Clubs, H.I.L.L., City of Inglewood Department of Parks, Recreation and Library Services, City of Long Beach, Parks, Recreation and Marine, City of Hawthorne Recreation and Community Services Department and YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles)

Strategic Partnerships

$160,000 to The Jackie Robinson Foundation to support 8 students with four-year scholarships, mentorship and leadership development
$100,000 to Vision to Learn to support free eye screenings/exams for nearly 25,000 and provide glasses to nearly 3,300 to low-income students in the Compton Unified School District
$50,000 to Positive Coaching Alliance LA to provide athletes at Title 1 middle and high schools with 30 workshops designed to promote positive character development
$75,000 to Library Foundation of Los Angeles to support the “Summer at the Library” program reaching over 90,000 children
$50,000 to Playworks Southern California to provide baseball workshops at 24 elementary schools and recess rollouts at 5 schools for over 15,000 students

In addition to grants, LADF has invested nearly $2.5 million into its 2018 direct programs, Dodgers Dreamfields, Dodgers RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) and LA Reads.

Since inception, LADF has distributed more than $25 million in programs and grants to hundreds of organizations across Los Angeles through the generous support of donors and fans who support LADF by purchasing a 50/50 raffle ticket, bidding on silent auction items, sponsoring events and providing general donations.

The grantmaking program will continue in 2019 with deadlines on February 1, May 1 and August 1. To learn more visit dodgers.com/ladf.

December 14, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Taj Mahal Increases Ticket Prices 400 Percent

The Taj Mahal raises the entrance fee a whopping 400 percent in an attempt to deter tourists from visiting.

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

The Taj Mahal is undeniably one of the most magnificent landmarks in India to see. The stunning monument was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal in 1632. The 42-acre complex includes a mosque and guesthouse that’s set in beautiful formal gardens in the city of Agra.

According to the Daily Mail, more than 6.5 million visited the historical site in 2016. So in an attempt to preserve the Taj Mahal, Indian authorities have hiked up the entry fee.

Admission has gone for locals and tourists. The price for Indian citizens went from 50 rupees (70 cents) to 250 rupees ($3.50). Foreigners will now be charged 1100 rupees ($13.50), with an additional 200 rupees ($2.75) to visit the main mausoleum.

Children under the age of 15, no matter what nationality, can still enter for free.

The Indian government has a growing concern for overtourism, which has caused overcrowding and structural damage. Therefore limiting the number of people visiting the Taj Mahal is one solution. However, environmental damage is another worry. Pollution is causing the white marble to turn yellow. And further damage is being caused by insects from the
Yamuna River, one of India’s most polluted waterways.

This is the latest move by the government to protect the world renowned Taj Mahal after officials limited the number of visitors to 40,000 per day.

But don’t worry. If the Taj Mahal is still on your bucket list you can make it happen. Book your tickets online in advance. The UNESCO world heritage Site opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset. On Fridays the attraction is closed for general viewing.

December 14, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Service Animals and Delta Airline’s New Restrictions

Delta Airlines announced a new policy restricting service animals, as well as emotional support animals on flights eight hours or longer. In addition, service animals and emotional support animals under the age of four months will not be permitted on flights of any length.

“We will continue to review and enhance our policies and procedures as health and safety are core values at Delta,” said John Laughter, Senior Vice President – Corporate Safety, Security and Compliance. “These updates support Delta’s commitment to safety and also protect the rights of customers with documented needs – such as veterans with disabilities – to travel with trained service and support animals.”

Murphy Newgen Philbrick–Old English Sheepdog Photo by: Heather Newgen

The updated restrictions follow an 84 percent increase in reported incidents involving service animals in 2016-2017. Urination/defecation, biting and even a widely reported attack by a 50-pound dog are among reasons for the ban.

The updated support and service animal age requirement aligns with the vaccination policy of the CDC. The eight-hour flight limit for emotional support animals is consistent with the principles outlined in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Air Carrier Access Act.

As a result of the policy changes, customers ticketed on or after Dec. 18 will no longer be permitted to originate travel with service animals on flights longer than eight hours. Passengers will also no longer be permitted to originate travel with service and support animals under four months of age regardless of flight length. Customers with tickets purchased prior to Dec. 18, who have already requested to travel with an emotional support animal will be allowed to travel as originally ticketed.

Photo Courtesy of Delta Airlines

Regardless of booking date, service animals will not be accepted on flights longer than eight hours on or after Feb. 1. Additionally, service and support animals under four months of age will not be accepted on flights of any length on or after Feb. 1. Customers will be contacted by Delta’s Reservations and Customer Care teams to adjust reservations if the policy update impacts their travel plans.

December 13, 2018 admin Leave a comment

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