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Why Molly Waits Moved to Kenya to Help Other Women

Molly Waits left behind her life in Florida to help Kenyans in need and shows us how she’s contributing to the local community.

Heather Newgen Profile PhotoBy: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

“I dreamed of employing my background in marketing and love for fashion to make a difference in people’s lives here in Kenya,” Molly Waits said as she showed us around the facility where she teaches women to sew.

 

Waits, has dedicated her life to helping women and children in Kenya where she spends her days making a real positive impact.

Not only has she given many children with HIV homes who were abandoned and living on the streets, she’s using her fashion skills to create jobs for women in need of earning an income.

She’s giving locals what they need by sharing her expertise and teaching them sustainable traits that will enhance their livelihood and helping them learn to design stylish bags that are made from locally sourced materials. Each bag is one-of-a-kind and available in fun patterns.

All profits from BAGAMOYO go to:

Create training and income for women & men living with HIV/AIDS.

Assist Springs of Hope Kenya in providing care for the orphaned, abandoned and abused children who live at SOHK.

Educate former street boys and at risk youth so they can attend school and have their basic needs met.

Assist families & children suffering from the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS.

When you purchase one of these bags you are making a stand and a statement of hope and love for the orphans and destitute children and the women and men living positively with HIV and AIDS.

Anyone can purchase a bag here and free shipping is available for orders for $60.00

We’re so inspired by Molly’s incredible work. Please check out her story and see how she’s helping make a difference.

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Justin Timberlake, Tom Hanks Inspire Youth to Rethink High School

Justin Timberlake, Tom Hanks Inspire Youth to Rethink High School

The biggest names in entertainment, journalism, sports, and music – Viola Davis, Julius Tennon, Common, James Corden, Tom Hanks, Salma Hayek Pinault, Samuel L. Jackson, Chance the Rapper, DJ Khaled, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ringo Starr, Justin Timberlake, U2, Jennifer Hudson, Sheryl Crow and much more – joinededucators, parents, and more for “EIF Presents: XQ Super School Live,” a one-hour telecast and multi-platform event that invited the public to help rethink the future of American high schools. The all-star telecast aired live at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar on all four major U.S. networks – ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC.

“EIF Presents: XQ Super School Live was not an ending, but a beginning. It was the beginning of a renewed sense of optimism in America that every child, every student—from any zipcode—can get the education they deserve, to lead a life of success as they define it. That our best days aren’t behind us, but ahead of us. That for all the problems in the world and divides in our country, the American spirit of ingenuity is alive and well, and, most of all, capable of solving the biggest issues of our day,” said XQ Co-Founder and CEO Russlynn Ali. “Tonight’s telecast was a reminder for everyone of just how much work lies ahead of us, but also how worthwhile, rewarding, and wonderful that work will be when we do it together.” 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Samuel L. Jackson speaks onstage during the XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for EIF)

 

Throughout the telecast, there was a roster of musical performances which culminated in a star-studded, moving finale performance of The Beatles,’ “Come Together,” led by Jennifer Hudson, with Jon Boogz, Sheryl Crow, MC Hammer, Sheila E., JAX, Ringo Starr, Reggie Watts, Max Weinberg and Max Weinberg’s Jukebox, D’Wayne Wiggins, Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma, and U2. 

Kelly Clarkson also performed a new song, “Move You,” from her forthcoming album, “Meaning of Life.” Kelsea Ballerini and Maren Morris introduced country star, Hunter Hayes, who added to the roster of performers, which also included Jordan Fisher and Andra Day.  

Highlights include: 

  • Lin-Manuel Miranda visited his old high school and his high school theatre teacher, Gina McCort. They reminisced about his days in theatre class and took a trip down memory lane showing home videos of him performing in his very first onstage musicals.
  • Justin Timberlake introduced America to an XQ Super School, (Furr High School in Houston), with a short documentary, passionately explaining, “The kids you just met, along with more than 200,000 other students in the Houston School District, are picking themselves up and dusting themselves off after Hurricane Harvey. So, to the people of Texas rebuilding, and the people in Florida bracing for Hurricane Irma, we love you and we’re with you.”

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Justin Timberlake speaks on stage during XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for EIF)

With his son, Asahd, in his arms, DJ Khaled inspired action stating, “We can’t just talk atour youth. We’ve got to talk TO them. Get them involved. That’s why I bring my son, Asahd, with me to the studio, to meetings, to nights like tonight. He is soaking in all these experiences like an adorable sponge. The youth are the seeds of this country, and they must be watered with knowledge.”   

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: DJ Khaled (L) ans Asahd Tuck Khaled attend XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for EIF)

 

Jesse Williams remarked, “One of the best jobs I ever had in my life was being a teacher. Watching a kid connect with passion is magic. Watching a kid overcome a challenge that would paralyze most adults? Humbling, inspiring.” 

Tom Hanks and Viola Davis ended the night with an impassioned speech and call to action. Hanks stated, “In America, we know that one small step can become a walk on the moon. We know that one simple act of sitting on a bus can inspire an entire movement. We know that two hundred seventy-two words on a hill in Gettysburg can help heal a nation. We take problems and raise our hands to solve them. That’s what we do. That’s who we are. So tonight, let’s take that one small step to reshape our education system in this country. Because when we’re good, we’re great.” Davis closed by sharing a personal story, “The fact that I am standing here tonight is a testament to the power of education. Education saved my life. Education matters. And now is the time for all of us to take action—no matter how big or small that action might be.”

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Actress and Executive Producer of EIF Presents: XQ Super School Live Viola Davis attends XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for EIF)

 

 

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Justin Timberlake, Tom Hanks Inspire Youth to Rethink High School

Justin Timberlake, Tom Hanks Inspire Youth to Rethink High School

The biggest names in entertainment, journalism, sports, and music – Viola Davis, Julius Tennon, Common, James Corden, Tom Hanks, Salma Hayek Pinault, Samuel L. Jackson, Chance the Rapper, DJ Khaled, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ringo Starr, Justin Timberlake, U2, Jennifer Hudson, Sheryl Crow and much more – joined educators, parents, and more for “EIF Presents: XQ Super School Live,” a one-hour telecast and multi-platform event that invited the public to help rethink the future of American high schools. The all-star telecast aired live at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar on all four major U.S. networks – ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC.

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Jennifer Hudson attends XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for EI

“EIF Presents: XQ Super School Live was not an ending, but a beginning. It was the beginning of a renewed sense of optimism in America that every child, every student—from any zipcode—can get the education they deserve, to lead a life of success as they define it. That our best days aren’t behind us, but ahead of us. That for all the problems in the world and divides in our country, the American spirit of ingenuity is alive and well, and, most of all, capable of solving the biggest issues of our day,” said XQ Co-Founder and CEO Russlynn Ali. “Tonight’s telecast was a reminder foreveryone of just how much work lies ahead of us,but also how worthwhile, rewarding, and wonderful that work will be when we do it together.”

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Samuel L. Jackson speaks onstage during the XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for EIF)

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Common attends XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for EIF)

Throughout the telecast, there was a roster of musical performances which culminated in a star-studded, moving finale performance of The Beatles,’ “Come Together,” led by Jennifer Hudson, with Jon Boogz, Sheryl Crow, MC Hammer, Sheila E., JAX, Ringo Starr, Reggie Watts, Max Weinberg and Max Weinberg’s Jukebox,D’Wayne Wiggins, Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma,and U2.

Kelly Clarksonalso performed a new song, “Move You,” from her forthcoming album, “Meaning of Life.” Kelsea Ballerini and Maren Morris introduced country star, Hunter Hayes, who added to the roster of performers, which also included Jordan Fisher and Andra Day. 

Highlights include: 

  • Lin-Manuel Miranda visited his old high school and his high school theatre teacher, Gina McCort. They reminisced about his days in theatre class and took a trip down memory lane showing home videos of him performing in his very first onstage musicals.
  • Justin Timberlake introduced America to an XQ Super School, (Furr High School in Houston), with a short documentary, passionately explaining, “The kids you just met, along with more than 200,000 other students in the Houston School District, are picking themselves up and dusting themselves off after Hurricane Harvey. So, to the people of Texas rebuilding, and the people in Florida bracing for Hurricane Irma, we love you and we’re with you.”

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Justin Timberlake speaks on stage during XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for EIF)

With his son, Asahd, in his arms, DJ Khaled inspired action stating, “We can’t just talk at our youth. We’ve got to talk TO them. Get them involved. That’s why I bring my son, Asahd, with me to the studio, to meetings, to nights like tonight. He is soaking in all these experiences like an adorable sponge. The youth are the seeds of this country, and they must be watered with knowledge.”  

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: DJ Khaled (L) ans Asahd Tuck Khaled attend XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for EIF)

Jesse Williams remarked, “One of the best jobs I ever had in my life was being a teacher. Watching a kid connect with passion is magic. Watching a kid overcome a challenge that would paralyze most adults? Humbling, inspiring.”

Tom Hanks and Viola Davis ended the night with an impassioned speech and call to action. Hanks stated, “In America, we know that one small step can become a walk on the moon. We know that one simple act of sitting on a bus can inspire an entire movement. We know that two hundred seventy-two words on a hill in Gettysburg can help heal a nation. We take problems and raise our hands to solve them. That’s what we do. That’s who we are. So tonight, let’s take that one small step to reshape our education system in this country. Because when we’re good, we’re great.” Davis closed by sharing a personal story, “The fact that I am standing here tonight is a testament to the power of education. Education saved my life. Education matters. And now is the time for all of us to take action—no matter how big or small that action might be.”

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 08: Actress and Executive Producer of EIF Presents: XQ Super School Live Viola Davis attends XQ Super School Live, presented by EIF, at Barker Hangar on September 8, 2017 in Santa California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for EIF)

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Utah

STATE INFORMATION

In Utah you’ll find stunning scenery, endless outdoor adventure and perfect conditions for skiing, hiking, biking, rafting and relaxing. While it’s an amazing state to visit, some locals face the challenges of lack of low-income housing, tax hikes and other social issues in rural areas such as poor education. There are many ways to help serve the community and if you’ve volunteered in Utah, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.

New York

CITY INFORMATION

There’s a reason why NYC is known as the city that never sleeps. The concrete jungle is buzzing with electrifying energy all hours of the day and night and is the center of media, fashion, world financial markets, food, culture and diversity. It’s one of the greatest cities to live in and one of the most popular to visit with over 60 million tourists each year. While it’s an incredible place to be NYC does face issues such as poverty, homelessness, overcrowded schools and petty crime. There are many ways to help serve the community and if you’ve volunteered in New York, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.

New Orleans

CITY INFORMATION

It’s easy to travel around New Orleans and fall in love with its vibrant, lively and friendly spirit. The locals are unique characters, there’s lots and lots of great food and you can walk down the street at any given time and hear the most beautiful jazz and blues music. There’s nothing in the world that you can remotely compare this city to and that’s just one of the many charming things about NOLA. And of course it’s rich in history, religion, has fun traditions and a distinct culture that includes Spanish, French and African influences. Millions of tourists flock to the Big Easy every year to experience the craziness of Bourbon St. and hang out in the French Quarter, but what many don’t realize is pockets of the city are still in need of help due to Hurricane Katrina. Volunteers are always welcomed. There are many ways to help serve the community and if you’ve volunteered in New Orleans, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.

New Hampshire

STATE INFORMATION

New Hampshire was one of the original 13 states and is nicknamed “Live Free or Die,” reflecting its fierce independence. However, it’s also known as the Granite State, which refers to its extensive granite formations and quarries. New Hampshire is the fifth smallest state, but has some of the largest and most luxurious ski resorts, no sales tax and a stunning natural beauty that attracts millions of visitors each year.

The state has experienced a robust economy in recent years, but has struggled with a high drug death rate and a significant decline in population. There are many ways to help serve the community and if you’ve volunteered in New Hampshire, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.

Los Angeles

CITY INFORMATION

Located in the heart of Southern California, Los Angeles is the center of the nation’s entertainment industry. Known for its beautiful weather, great beaches and Hollywood history, the city offers diverse attractions and welcomes just under 50 million tourists a year. While it’s one of the most visited places in the world, LA faces poor environmental issues, a large homeless population, and a rise in gang violence. There are many ways to help serve the community and if you’ve volunteered in Los Angeles, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.

Las Vegas

CITY INFORMATION

Located in the heart of Southern California, Los Angeles is the center of the nation’s entertainment industry. Known for its beautiful weather, great beaches and Hollywood history, the city offers diverse attractions and welcomes just under 50 million tourists a year. While it’s one of the most visited places in the world, LA faces poor environmental issues, a large homeless population, and a rise in gang violence. There are many ways to help serve the community and if you’ve volunteered in Los Angeles, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.

Atlanta

COUNTRY INFORMATION

From its founding, the United States has been a country of immigrants. Many came to America searching better economic opportunities, while others fled Europe to avoid persecution over religious beliefs. Throughout the centuries, the U.S gained military and economic strength, resulting in superpower status and is now considered to be a global leader. Given the widespread success of the country and the influence it has had on the rest of the world, most people don’t consider it a nation in despair. Although it maintains its reputation as a dominating power, there are many issues that are severely affecting the country such as civil rights, gender equality, poverty, and a lack of education. If you’ve volunteered in the United States, we’d love to hear about your experience. Please let us know which organization you signed up with, what your trip was like, and if you’d recommend the program to others.