Montessori Students and the Amman Imman: Water is Life Project

Join the Global Water Discovery Expedition!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Fri, 24 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

On May 11, over 200 individuals from across the DC metro area - students, parents, teachers, volunteers - came together for A Walk for Water at the Locust Grove Nature Center in Bethesda, Maryland, to benefit nonprofit Amman Imman: Water is Life's development projects in the Azawak region of Niger, West Africa. The participants enjoyed a beautiful setting of lush woods and a flowing creek while learning about the Azawak, a region that suffers from water scarcity for over 9 months every year.

Finding out about water scarcity and the Azawak on
the Global Water Discovery Expedition

Under the coordination of Jessica Wyatt, the Montgomery College/MCPS Collaborative Coordinator, students in ESOL service learning clubs from Blair, Kennedy and Northwood High Schools in Montgomery County enriched the event with a question/answer activity called the Global Water Discovery Expedition.

Doing research on the internet, the high school students came up with 14 questions about the global water crisis, water scarcity conditions in the Azawak and Amman Imman's work in the region. The students designed colorful signs containing the answers. As younger students arrived, they received a booklet with the questions. As they walked along the trail, pen in hand, the students discovered the answers on signs posted along the route.

Thank you to the ESOL/SSL club advisors - Julie Desai at Kennedy HS, Katie Lazo at Blair High School and Veena Seshadri at Northwood HS - for supporting the ESOL/SSL club students in making the signs!

And a big shout-out to Jessica Wyatt - Thank you, Jessica, for organizing this activity!

Try out the Global Water Discovery Expedition for yourself!

Here are the questions:

Where is the Azawak valley?
How many people live in the Azawak valley?
Traditionally, how do people in the Azawak live?
Why don't people in the Azawak have enough water?
What kinds of problems are created when people can't easily get water?
How does Amman Imman solve the water problem in the Azawak?
What is the most common phrase you will hear in the Azawak valley?
What other benefits do people gain by having access to water?
How many people in the world die daily from drinking dirty water?
How many people in the world lack access to clean water?
What water-borne disease kills 6000 children daily all over the world?
How much does it cost to make a well for people to get clean water?
How long can a borehole well in the Azawak region last?
What can YOU do to conserve water?

Match the answers:

Montessori of Maryknoll: We're Glad to Help!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Thu, 23 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

The young students at Montessori of Maryknoll in Glen Ellyn, Illinois continue to partner with Amman Imman. They learn about people who lack water, the most basic of necessities. Through an annual bake and plant sale, these young heroes of compassion experience taking action and making a difference:

Dear Amman Imman,

Our Enrichment students are studying their last continent for this year, Africa, and wanted to help this most worthy cause. We baked at school and at home for a bake sale. We took plant cuttings in last fall and grew some annuals that we were able to sell.

We raised $350!

If you put this money with other schools' fundraising money, you can work on another well. We are happy to help you and send our best wishes to you and the people of Africa.

Until next year,
Maggie, Brielle, Claire, Evan, Andrew, Jacob, Jaden and Liam

Montessori of Maryknoll

Event Day Information for May 11, "A Walk for Water"

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Thu, 09 May 2013 20:28:00 +0000

Event Day Information for “A Walk For Water”

Saturday, May 11, 2013

9 am - 1 pm

Locust Grove Nature Center, 7777 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda, MD

Thank you for your participation in “A Walk For Water.” Our collaborative walk will raise awareness for the plight of children and families who live in the Azawak region of West Africa. For them, finding water is a daily struggle. The funds we raise will support the work of Amman Imman: Water is Life a nonprofit organization that has been building permanent and sustainable water sources in the Azawak since 2006. You can find out more at www.ammanimman.org.

1. Schedule

Please arrive at 9 am! We have an expo planned between 9 am and 10 am that you won’t want to miss! The activities include a Friendship Exchange display, a Global Water Discovery Expedition, Pledge for Water and “A Walk With Water”. We’ll also have live music and an indigenous craft and jewelry sale during that hour. Our partners, the Reel Water Film Festival and the Oneness-Family School, will be on hand as well.

The opening ceremony will begin at 10 am, and the walk will commence by 10:30 am. Following completion of the 3 mile walk, you will return to the expo. Students will receive a certificate of completion, and you can continue to browse our partner tables; the jewelry, crafts, and other merchandise; and engage in the activities until 1 pm.

2. Location and Parking

The expo, opening ceremony, and starting point for the walk will be at the fire ring area around the giant sycamore tree at the Locust Grove Nature Center at 7777 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda, MD. Parking will be available in the upper parking lot of the Indoor Tennis court facility which is adjacent to the nature center. Signs in the parking lot will guide you to the event area. For directions please refer to this google map.

3. Check-in and On-site Registration, 9:00 am – 10:00 am

Everyone must check-in when they arrive. If you haven’t registered in advance, we will ask you to fill out a registration form. Checks, cash and credit card will be accepted for the fee: $15/adult, $10/student. Children under 6 years old will be admitted free. If you ordered a t-shirt before April 29, you can pick it up. Additional shirts will be on sale for $12. Checks should be made payable to: “Amman Imman”.

Online registration will remain open until 12 noon on May 10 via our FirstGiving page, http://www.firstgiving.com/ammanimman/a-walk-for-water-2013-locust-grove.

If you’ve collected sponsorship monies, please bring them to the Check-in/Registration table. If you want to continue raising funds after the event, please do!

4. Supervision, Health and Safety

A parent or supervising adult is responsible for the supervision and safety of their group along the trail. We aim for the walk to be fun and engaging. However, please note that you walk at your own risk.

To promote health, safety and enjoyment, please remember to bring a water bottle, a hat, sunscreen, sun glasses, a small backpack to carry snacks, and allergy medicine if you need it. Cover your body appropriately for protection from ticks and mosquitos. Sturdy shoes and an extra pair of socks will keep your feet happy and your walk fun. A rain jacket might be needed in the event of wet weather.

Two portable toilets are available for your convenience. One will be in the expo area, and one will be along the route.

5. The Path

The trail is unpaved and wooded. It is not appropriate for strollers. Slow walkers may need two hours or more to hike. The designated trail route will be marked with “A Walk For Water” signs. A route map will be available at the Check-In Table.

On the trail, students will embark on a “Global Water Discovery Expedition”. When they arrive at the event, they will be given a questionnaire about the global water crisis and water scarcity in the Azawak region. As they walk along the trail, they will find the answers on information signs posted along the route.

6. What to leave at home

Please leave your roller blades and bicycles at home. If you bring your pet, please keep him/her on a leash.

7. Snacks, water and food

Walking on a warm day and a long distance requires adequate water and food. Please bring enough water and snacks to keep you and your family energized and hydrated. We will have some donated snacks and water from Mom’s, Ize’s bagels and Starbucks, but we can’t guarantee that there will be enough for everyone. You are welcome to stay after the walk and have a picnic in the park with your family.

8. Litter and recycling

We want to keep the fire-ring area and park trails clean and natural. Please take out what you bring in and contain your personal belongings. We ask that you plan to recycle your own bottles and cans. Let’s keep this event as green as possible!

9. Rain or Shine

This event will take place, rain or shine.

When you are finished collecting your donations, please send them to:

Amman Imman: Water is Life

7036 Strathmore Street, #111

Chevy Chase, MD 20815

info@ammanimman.org

www.ammanimman.org

(240) 418-1143

Fun and Discovery at A Walk for Water

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Thu, 02 May 2013 10:40:00 +0000

May 11, 9 am - 1 pm

Locust Grove Nature Center

Bethesda, MD

click here for online registration

Dear Friend,

A Walk for Water at Locust Grove is just over a week away! It will be a festive event with educational, relevant and fun activities for all ages.

The pre-Walk expo will begin at 9 am while we gather in the meadow around the giant sycamore tree for check-in and onsite registration. African musicians will enchant us with live music. Indigenous crafts, made by artisans from Amman Imman's borehole villages, will be on display and for sale. Our A Walk for Water partners will be represented so that you can learn about their important work. Participants will be able to Pledge for Water and take part in a real-time online campaign. Students will have the opportunity to draw water from a "well" and experience carrying a water-filled container, as a child in the Azawak must do every day for as many as 30 miles.

At 10 am a short rally will remind us why we are walking together and then the 3-mile walk will begin. On the trail, students will embark on a Global Water Discovery Expedition. They will be given a questionnaire about the global water crisis and water scarcity in the Azawak region. As they walk along the trail, they will find the answers on information signs posted along the route.

Upon returning to the meadow, the festivities will continue until 1 pm with refreshments provided by our generous A Walk for Water sponsors for all to enjoy.

Come be a part of A Walk for Water. If you haven't already, we encourage you to register in advance, either by using a paper form, or online at FirstGiving.com. Event Information, flyers and fundraising tools can be found on the Locust Grove Information page. If you can’t be there, you can still be a part of the virtual “Walk for Water” by making a fundraising page or collecting donations using sponsorship form. MCPS students can earn SSL hours for participting in the event.

We thank you for your support in raising funds, sharing the messages of the water crisis affecting the people of the Azawak and believing that every person deserves clean drinking water. To acknowledge your help, every person who raises $100 or more will receive a special gift of appreciation from the artisans in our borehole villages in the Azawak.

Because of the generosity of people like you, Amman Imman recently completed construction of a 5^th borehole in the Azawak. Activities that have been implemented in our borehole communities since gaining access to water include food and gardening programs, support for schools, health initiatives, an artisan cooperative and a community store. Together we are continuing to bring life-saving aid, starting with water, to children and families who desperately need it.

We hope you, your family and friends can join us for this adventurous and impactful morning in the woods of the Locust Grove Nature Center in Cabin John Regional Park, Bethesda on May 11th!

Sincerely yours,

Debra Kahn
Associate Director, Amman Imman
Wells of Love program director

Thank you to our partners

for their generous support:

A Tradition of Giving

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 13:27:00 +0000

Students at Palm Harbor Montessori Academy in Florida have established a yearly tradition that expresses their commitment to nurturing global citizenship and compassionate philanthropy among their students. Throughout the school year, they express their dedication to Amman Imman and their friendship towards the people of the Azawak through small activities that make a big difference. Last year, Nicole Nasser, lead teacher in the Junior Elementary, emailed:

Students add their coins to the Well of Love

The children bring their donations throughout the year to my classroom to put in the big well. They deposit money they raise on their own and from their piggy banks. We have a special clap for the children that bring in money. The children Trick-or-Treat for Amman Imman and we will do it again this year. We also have a stand for Amman Imman during our school events such as International Picnic Day that takes place at the end of October, Earth Day and Book Fair so parents can contribute as well.

In fall 2012, we received $1,000 collected by Palm Harbor students during the 2011-2012 school year!

Our school and our students strongly believe in Amman Imman and want to support it in any way we can and as long as we can. The funds that were mailed to you by our Head of School Christine Varkas were combined efforts of all the students at school.

Congratulations to Palm Harbor Montessori Academy students, teachers and parents for establishing a culture of giving that aligns with your values and improves the lives across the world.

For the children and families in the Azawak of West Africa, our Amman Imman team thanks everyone at Palm Harbor Montessori Academy!

Palm Harbor students demonstrate their commitment by having a table for Amman Imman at yearly events

Repairing the World

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:46:00 +0000

A 6th grader named Ethan sent me an email in which he asked an inspiring question:

from AjDele Photography

Hi, I'm a sixth grader in the Bethesda, MD area and I'm doing a project on social justice. I was wondering how you saw yourself as "repairing the world"- making it a better place. Please respond ASAP.

Hi, Ethan,

My name is Debbie and I also live in Bethesda, Maryland. I'm so glad you've asked me that question because it's close to my heart. Since 2006 I've been working with Amman Imman: Water is Life, a nonprofit organization that helps some of the most vulnerable populations in the world meet their most essential needs, starting with water in the Azawak of West Africa. The Azawak is one of the only places in the world where people still die simply because they cannot access water.

I heard about Amman Imman from its founder, Ariane Kirtley. At the time, I was working as an administrator at a school. Ariane was traveling from school to school asking students to help her build borehole wells that would access clean water starting at 600 feet deep through the vast Azawak region. She went to the children because she could not get the government nor other organizations to do what needed to be done.

I was deeply moved by Ariane's stories, and her passion and concern for the people of this region. I felt compelled to join her. As a volunteer, I began to develop a school network and service learning program called Wells of Love. Since then, over 100 schools have participated in the program.

In 2009, I left my school administrator job, and now work for Amman Imman full-time. With school children around the world who have given their time and energy to raise funds, I've helped Ariane and Amman Imman build five of these borehole wells. Now, over 135,000 people and animals in the Azawak have gained access to life-giving water. Within the communities where our boreholes operate, food programs, education, health and economic activities have begun, truly making our villages "Oases of Life".

We don't have much control in this world, but making things better when we see a problem is our responsibility. This is the lesson I learned when I teamed up with Ariane. For me, working with Amman Imman to save and improve the lives of the people of the Azawak gives me the opportunity to make a difference. It's one corner of the world where I can do a little repair.

I am honored to be able to "repair the world" - to help real people, to save lives - in this small way. I hope I've answered your question, Ethan. Please let me know if you have any more and I'll be happy to respond.

I invite you and your family to join us at A Walk for Water on May 11 at the Locust Grove Nature Center in Bethesda! Click here for more information including registration and fundraising. I invite you to join me in making the world a better place for the people of the Azawak of West Africa!

Sincerely,

Debbie

World Water Day....Make a Difference!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 20:20:00 +0000

Dear Friend,
If you could change a life for the better, would you do it? Today is World Water Day. Amman Imman's borehole wells are changing the lives of over 100,000 people living in the Azawak of West Africa. Will you join us?

Make World Water Day count. No matter where you live you can be part of our Walk for Water. There are several ways you can participate. We invite you to choose one of these options today:

Register, and attend the event at the Locust Grove Nature Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
Even if you can't be there, you can help by raising funds.
Contribute personally by making a donation.
Share this message on your social networks.
Become a Corporate Sponsor.

Please join us in making a difference for all the people of the Azawak!

Yours, with love and water for all,
Ariane Kirtley, Denis Gontero, Debra Kahn and the entire Amman Imman team

Amman Imman: Water is Life
7036 Strathmore Street, Suite 111 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 tel: 240-418-1143 www.ammanimman.org

Walk for Water!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:47:00 +0000

Dear Friend of the Azawak,
On May 11, 2013, Amman Imman will host the 7th annual "A Walk for Water" at a new venue -- the Locust Grove Nature Center at Cabin John Regional Park in Bethesda, Maryland. Students and their families, from schools across the DC area, will come together to walk 3 miles on the wooded trails, offering their support to children and families living in the Azawak of West Africa. We hope that you and your family will join us!

Discount for early registration
We'd like as many as possible to register early so that the event will be successful. Between now and World Water Day (March 22), you can register at a reduced fee ($10/adult, $5/student). Please visit the Locust Grove Information page for links to online and paper registration options, or go directly to the event registration page on FirstGiving.

Why Walk for Water?
By walking for water, local students have an opportunity to be leaders as they bring attention to the global issues of climate change and water scarcity. Students put their compassion into action, raising a voice for the children of the Azawak who are often tasked with walking as many as 30 miles in a day in search of water. They gain an appreciation for this most basic necessity - so easy to take for granted. They learn about philanthropy as they ask family members, neighbors and friends to sponsor their walk and donate towards a cause they care about.

How the funds help
To date, Amman Imman has established permanent water sources in four Azawak communities, providing water for over 100,000 during the height of the dry season. Amman Imman also supports these communities with education, food, health and livelihood initiatives. The funds raised by this year's Walk for Water will go towards Amman Imman's next borehole and continuing community-based activities.

Can't attend? Other ways you can make an impact
We hope you will join us for this adventurous and impactful event! If you can't be there, please consider sponsoring a fundraiser or making a donation. You can also become a corporate sponsor. Visit the Locust Grove Information page to find out more about these options.

Please help us get more students and families by joining the event on Facebook, sharing with your social networks and inviting your local school. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want to volunteer to help!

Sincerely yours,
Debbie

Fitness Philanthropy - and Fun for Kids - with the Amman-a-thon

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 12:38:00 +0000

This year we are highlighting The Amman-a-thon, our signature fitness fun-draising activity in which students practice their athletic skills with the intent of raising funds to support Amman Imman's projects. Amman-a-thons have become yearly events at several schools. We'd like to see more schools implementing this activity! To learn more visit our Amman-a-thon campaign page. From there, you'll be able to download a step-by-step Planning Guide and Fundraising Kit. We share some stories about the Amman-a-thon here:

Several years ago some of the students in the 1st-3rd grade Peace Arbor class at the Oneness-Family School in Chevy Chase, Maryland expressed their disappointment when, due to other Saturday commitments, they would not be able to attend the first Walk for Water at Lake Frank. In response, the students and their teachers created an in-school event to raise funds for Amman Imman in which the whole class could participate. Thus the Amman-a-thon was born.

Students at the Oneness-Family School doing their Amman-a-thon in 2009.
One student spins a hula hoop while her partner counts the number of revolutions.
Students get sponsors among family, friends and neighbors to give between 1 cent and 25 cents per spin.
A class of 30 students can raise $3,000 - $5,000.
Lessons like "every little bit adds up to alot" abound.

The activity was an immediate hit among these 6-9 year olds. They were very excited to improve their physical fitness skills - like shooting baskets, jumping rope, etc. - and collect sponsorship $ to help the Azawak at the same time. The activity has become a yearly event. Every spring, the students look forward to choosing the skills they want to develop, practicing, and competing with themselves on Amman-a-thon day to exceed their top score in order to raise funds.

Cartwheeling for the Azawak

The Amman-a-thon has become a yearly mainstay at several schools. At Five Oaks Academy in South Carolina this fitness fundraising activity started in Bonnie Benthall's lower elementary classroom but now includes the entire school. Over 100 students, up through middle school, get involved in running, jumping, cartwheeling, hula hooping, basketball dribbling, and other activities, surpassing their best in order to do their best for the children of the Azawak. Even 2 year olds practice balancing with the help of their teacher and raise funds (with the help of their parents!).

The 6-9 year old students of Cornerspring Montessori in Belfast, Maine have been steadfast Amman Imman supporters since 2009 when 6-year-old Owen presented the project to his class. Since then they've done several fundraisers, including an Amman-a-thon fashioned like an Olympics. Their teacher reported that the students "learned about compassion and generosity, and taught all of us about the boundless capacity each of us has to change things".

Running practice

+Keystone Montessori School students did their first Amman-a-thon last year, a little differently than other schools. Rather than choose their own individual skills to practice, the group practiced running laps all together. On Amman-a-thon Day, the class ran as many laps as they could in a given time, with their parents cheering them on. This year, the class plans to choose a different activity that they will all work towards mastery on together.

Hula hooping

Evergreen Montessori in Silver Spring, Maryland held an Amman-a-thon last year after three elementary-aged students embraced Amman Imman's cause as their own. Their enthusiasm spirited the rest of the class as they hopped, jumped and hula-hooped to raise funds collectively.

We invite you to give your students the opportunity to develop their fitness skills while expressing their compassion by holding an Amman-a-thon at your school. Again, please visit this link on the Amman Imman website where you can download a Planning Guide and Fundraising Kit. And don't hesitate to contact me (info at ammanimman) with your questions and ideas! All together we can make difference!

A Deposit into the Foundation of Life

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 20:44:00 +0000

"The dark beads represent their dirty water.
With Luv, the water turns blue."

Students at Five Oaks Academy in Simpsonville, South Carolina once again have proven that working together as a dedicated team produces dividends far beyond raising funds. This fall, the Lower Elementary students at Five Oaks participated in numerous activities as part of Hand-in-Hand, a yearly campaign that lends a helping hand to the children of the Azawak. As reported by their teacher, "Each student is so proud of their hard work that goes into improving the lives of others."

Painting of a woman,
sold at the Five Oaks Artist's Bazaar

These are our future leaders! With the support of their school community, each individual student has personally taken up the cause of Amman Imman. They use their innumerable talents and skills to raise a banner for the children of the Azawak that results in substantial fundraising year after year. Doubling the results, the experiences these students gather are life deposits that fortify their foundation as compassionate leaders and dedicated changemakers.

Bookmark for Wells of Love

So far this year Five Oaks students have raised over $600 through various fundraisers including, selling crafts at the school's annual Artist's Bazaar, water sales at school festivals and Hot Dog sales.

A number of students have initiated their own personal fundraisers such as selling hand-made crafts and holding lemonade stands at home.

Decorated Wells of Love Pillowcase

As observed by their dedicated teachers, "Their compassion is breathtaking!"

We are grateful for the work of these Heroes of Compassion, who care enough to dedicate their time and talent towards helping to save and improve the lives of the children of the Azawak.

Collaboration Doubles Compassion

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Sat, 17 Nov 2012 15:28:00 +0000

Minnieland Huguenot decorated and sold pinwheels
while learning about Air, Land, and Water in September.

In the spring of 2010 I had the opportunity to meet with the Montessori teachers of Minnieland Academy to share our Wells of Love program at an end-of-year luncheon. The teachers recognized an opportunity for their students. By learning about the people of the Azawak, who live in circumstances quite different than their own, their 3-6 year old students would gain a global perspective. Given the opportunity to help, these young leaders would lay a foundation for their future by manifesting their potential to make a tangible difference people's lives.

Lead by Montessori school director Lori Marano, Minnieland Academy Montessori classrooms raised $5,000 during the 2011-2012 school year. Their results were doubled by a corporate administration dedicated to empowering their community.

Drawing from student in Kijigari village,
part of the 2012 Friendship Exchange

How they did it

The teachers used Wells of Love resources to incorporate Amman Imman into their lesson plans, tying stories of the Azawak into science, geography, culture, peace lessons and celebrations.

The 3-6 year olds and their teachers engaged in a variety of creative activities that raised awareness about water, shared their compassion and desire for peace, and raised funds for Amman Imman’s activities in the Azawak.

At the end of the year, each classroom received a set of Friendship Exchange cards with drawings from children in Amman Imman’s borehole villages. The students were delighted to receive this gift from the their new found friends in the Azawak.

Here’s a list of some of the activities the different classrooms participated in:

Sold student art work, hot chocolate and cake pops
Made jewelry and hand-made bookmarks for our “friends in Niger” to sell at the holiday time
Held bake sales, yard sales and consignment sales
Collected coins and soda caps
Constructed wells and other art projects
Sold hand-made crafts including ornaments and placemats
Events like Movie Night, Spaghetti Dinner Night Fundraiser, Art Auction, Popcorn Fridays, Father/Daughter fundraising dance, Mother/Son Sports Night
Sponsored Parents Night Out

Minnieland Salem Church set up a donation collection jar
called "Change for Change" .

Tie-dyed cloth and made quilted pillows

Double Impact

Everyone was surprised and delighted when Minnieland’s corporate administration amplified the impact of the classroom fundraisers by matching the funds, bringing the total contribution to $10,000!

Now everyone is doubly inspired! This year the teachers in 33 Minnieland Montessori classrooms have decided that they want to aim even higher. Motivated by the impact on their children, their administration’s support, and the enthusiasm of the parent community, they intend to double their efforts by collaboratively raising $10,000. The Minnieland corporation has echoed back that they will match those funds again.

Skipwith Academy hosted a Father / Daughter Dance.
Each family paid to attend the dance and
received an evening of dancing, food and fun.

What can we learn from this achievement? Incredible results can be achieved when an administration, teachers, parents and students work together!

Thank you, everyone at Minnieland, for your example and inspiration! And thank you for your contribution towards saving and improving lives in the Azawak of West Africa!

Peace begins in the heart....after basic needs are met!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 12:50:00 +0000

Today on International Day of Peace, Amman Imman: Water is Life is launching the Wells of Love program for the 2012-2013 school year with this proclamation:

Peace begins in the heart....after basic needs are met.

Amman Imman thanks all the students, parents and teacher who have given their time, love and compassion to raise funds and help build these Wells of Love, that bring the most essential of elements - water - to the people of the Azawak.

The people of the Azawak are beautiful. In spite of their circumstances, they emanate dignity and grace. If you are their guest, they will give you their last cup of milk. Surely they deserve to have water, these brothers and sisters on our planet earth!

Please join our coalition of schools, and help us bring water to where there is none.

Let's celebrate peace!

Let's come together as peacemakers for the resilient people of the Azawak, and give them the opportunity to have peace!

Peace begins in the heart....after basic needs are met.

Links:
Join our coalition of schools: http://ammanimman.org/WOL/register.html
International Day of Peace: http://www.internationaldayofpeace.org/
Peace One Day: http://peaceoneday.org/

The Generous Hearts of Children

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Cornerspring Montessori School in Belfast, Maine, began their partnership with Amman Imman three years ago when one young student discovered the Azawak while researching areas of the world that suffer from water scarcity. Odin, then 8 years old, made a presentation to his class, and asked them to help with the Azawak's water problem. They class held a bake sale, and were very motivated when they raised $170. Subsequently later that school year, Cornerspring students participated in an Amman-a-thon, raising in total close to $1,500.

This summer we received another contribution of $283 from raised by Cornerspring students. Teacher Cindy Scappaticci reported about the their motivation:

Hi Debbie,

Odin's presentation in 2009 made a big impression

Each September, as a class, we decide which organization to support. Amman Imman was at the top of the list this year, along with two other organizations. The class made a proposal to support all three organizations with three different events through the year, and our director agreed.

The students' commitment to the plight of the Azawak region moves me. Most of them vividly recalled Odin's presentation more than three years ago with the dirty water. They still realized that "no water means no life" - in their own words. One child noticed and proclaimed, "Everyone needs help!" Their compassionate hearts want to give to everyone. They are such inspirations to me with their hearts so open with generosity!

I wouldn't be surprised if Amman Imman remains on the top of their list each year! I once again am proud to be sending this check on their behalf.

Best wishes to you and all at Amman Imman and Wells of Love,
Cindy

A Birthday Wish for Water

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 01:28:00 +0000

Tommy Kollias recently turned 9 years old. One of the ways Tommy celebrated his birthday was by raising funds for the Azawak. He set up a fundraising page, and with the help of his parents he shared the page with friends and relatives.

He made the first donation - the money collected in his piggybank.

Here's Tommy's perspective:

Since I am fortunate to have so much, I want to use the occasion of my ninth birthday to help give the gift of water to those in need.

We are very proud of Tommy's initiative to take action and help Amman Imman, a cause he cares about.

As of today (9/10/12), Tommy has raised $235. He's very close to his $250 goal! If you'd like to support Tommy's effort and help him reach or surpass his goal, please click here to make a donation through his page. Feel free to make a comment to acknowledge Tommy's efforts!

Building a Foundation of Water Knowledge

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 17:22:00 +0000

Project Wet, dedicated to water education, offers some great resources to supplement your Wells of Love program curricula activities.

Check out this free download, Discovering Drought. Containing a lesson plan for 3rd through 6th grade, it links to a more extensive activity booklet about drought available inexpensively in their store.

From the lesson plan:

Although drought is a serious topic, it can be presented in a way that empowers your students with knowledge and the opportunity to take action.

Also, I recommend visiting Discover Water, Project Wet's interactive website through which students can explore the role water plays in our lives. There are activities that explain the water cycle, watersheds, oceans, fresh water, using water, and more.

A foundation of water knowledge will empower your students, adding context and meaning to their philanthropic actions for the Azawak. Discover Project Wet!

The Heart of Philanthropy Opens for Young Students

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 19:36:00 +0000

A student collected change
from her friends and neighbors

For young students, the heart of philanthropy opens when they discover a problem, gain understanding, and are given the tools at their level to take action that makes a difference. The Evergreen Montessori School's global service program opens the door to philanthropy for their students.

Last year, elementary students at Evergreen learned about several organizations that address global issues. The students divided into committees, each group choosing one of the causes as their focus. Over the course of several months, these young philanthropists studied the issues, participated in activities that raised awareness about their cause, and collected money to contribute towards their chosen organization's program.

I shared Amman Imman: Water is Life with Evergreen students in the spring. All the students were so receptive! Upon learning about children and families in the Azawak suffering due to the lack of water, three students decided to make Amman Imman their cause. They deeply wanted to help.

"When the students see a need, they feel an impulse to help. And when it comes to caring, they don't stop themselves from responding to their impulse." says Lourdes Barden, Programs Director at Evergreen.

Hula hooping at an Amman-a-thon for the Azawak

To bring awareness about the plight of the people of the Azawak to the rest of the school, the three students presented Amman Imman to other classes at the school. Several successful fundraisers, raising over $1000, grew out of their desire to help.

They sold muffins and coffee for a week at morning drop off.
A 7 year old filled a jar with money by going around to her friends and neighbors and telling them about her cause.
The entire elementary class participated in an Amman-a-thon, hula hooping, jumping and shooting baskets for water.
The three students and their families attended the annual A Walk for Water at Lake Frank.


Students represent Amman Imman

At the school's Spring Festival, a service learning fair highlighted each of the organizations the students had chosen to support. Another bake sale raised more money. Parents gathered to listen as students gave speeches about their cause.

Through the videos and updates shared by Amman Imman, the children witnessed the results of their efforts as 5000 people in the village of Ebagueye, as well as people in surrounding communities, benefited from the water that came from Amman Imman's borehole well.

"The children realized that they had the energy and power to touch the lives of people on the other side of the world, says Ms. Barden. "As 6, 7 and 8 year olds, they learned they could be as powerful as adults - on their scale."

We invite your students

to open the door to the heart of philanthropy

by participating in our Wells of Love program.

Contact me to Join Wells of Love

or fill out our online form.

Evergreen tudents and their families attend A Walk for Water at Lake Frank.
Pictured here with Amman Imman's Debbie Kahn, Hadesh Mahmoud and Michael Kirtley.

Student takes the lead in humanitarian efforts

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 11:15:00 +0000

Students at the Hershey Montessori School first learned about Amman Imman when students from Oneness-Family School visited their campus in 2008. Since then stories of the Azawak continue to be shared at Hershey. The school has followed the progress as four borehole wells, built in part by funds raised by students, have been constructed, now supplying water for as many as 100,000 people and animals during the hot season.

The Hershey Montessori school community keep the children of the Azawak in their hearts. For a several years, the students expressed their commitment by raising awareness and funds through school-wide Walk for Water events. This year, we received a different message; not from the head of school but instead from a young leader:

Dear Ariane,
My name is Suchita Rajan. I was the organizer for the Walk for Water. My friends Ashley Joyce, Maya Harwood and Taylor Jones also helped. We raised $375.24. I hope you keep on continuing your work and building more boreholes all over the Azawak valley.

Sincerely,
Suchita Rajan

.....We feel humbled and deeply touched to know that a student led the way for the Hershey community this year......

Congratulations, Suchita,

on leading your school's humanitarian efforts

to help make a difference

in the lives of the children of the Azawak!

Annika's Spirit of Creativity and Compassion

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 14:03:00 +0000


Gem Earrings by Annika

Eight year old Annika's creative spirit is prolific. So is her compassion in using her art to help those in the Azawak who lack the most essential of resources. Annika sells her jewelry on Etsy with half the profits benefiting Amman Imman's mission to bring water to the Azawak of West Africa. If you visit her Etsy shop today, you'll find it empty. That's because all of her original handmade items have been sold. Go here to see her earrings, necklaces and weaving. They are simply beautiful!

Her Etsy profile tells us a little bit about her:

My name is Annika and I am 8 years old.
I love art and playing! I like making jewellery, particularly necklaces. I also love weaving. I love trying new things - that's part of life!

Half of the money I make selling my crafts will be donated to project Amman Imman, to bring clean, sustainable water to the people of the Azawak Valley in Niger.

If you'd like to wear some of Anika's art and help bring sustainable water sources to the Azawak of Niger, visit Annika on Etsy. You can request a custom item, wait patiently for her next creation, or simply send her a message and thank her for her sharing her creative spirit with the world.

Thank you, Annika
for your creativity and compassion!

Community action starts with an individual

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 11:54:00 +0000

Eleven year old Zoe, a rising 6th grader at Seneca Academy, has awakened her school community about the struggle for water in the Azawak of West Africa. Zoe chose to focus on the region for her school project about the scarcity of natural resources. The water-scarce conditions in the vast Azawak valley proved a seminal topic for Zoe’s research about how human populations are affected.

In addition to the sociological perspective, Zoe drew correlations between the water cycle and the climate conditions in the Azawak.

She wrote:

Azawak’s climate is very hot and dry. Due to the extreme heat, the small amount of water that they have evaporates quickly. The water cannot precipitate because there is not enough humidity. There is a huge difference between heat and humidity; humidity is the amount of moisture in the air and heat is just the sun bearing down on you. Therefore, there is not enough moisture in the air for it to rain.

Zoe also wrote about how parents and children in the Azawak are forced to spend a majority of their time searching for water for the sake of survival. She highlighted Amman Imman’s boreholes that access water deep beneath the earth and relieve the daily struggle of the populations.

She presented her research orally to her peers, stirring up the emotions of the class. Collectively, they decided to donate some of their school store proceeds to Amman Imman.

For the next school year, Zoe is thinking about engaging her school in collaborating with Amman Imman for a large IB project she’ll be working on. She proposed the idea to the school, and they are excited to include Amman Imman as part of their global citizenry component during the 2012-2013 school year.

At 11 years old, Zoe has already impacted her local community by shedding light on a dire situation in the world and inspiring her peers towards action. One step by a single individual has the potential to change the world!

Global Awareness, Leadership, and Making a Difference

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Wed, 04 Jul 2012 16:08:00 +0000

Young students at Montessori of Maryknoll
in Glen Ellyn, Illinois share their compassion

Throughout the 2011-2012 school year, I received stories about the activities of students as they learned about the Azawak and engaged in Amman Imman’s Wells of Love program. Some of these students became involved as a result of their school’s participation. Others initiated their own independent projects, often inspiring and raising awareness in their community. Each story illustrates the blossoming of global awareness and leadership, particularly when coupled with taking action.
Perspectives expand as youth of all ages learn about the people of the Azawak, gain appreciation for our essential resources, and become empowered to make a difference through helping with Amman Imman’s projects.

This summer’s Wells of Love blog posts will celebrate the achievement and experiences of these young leaders, our Heroes of Compassion. I'll add the link for each story as they are posted at the end of this post.

July 5 Community action starts with an individual

Enthusiasm reaps leaders at Five Oaks Academy

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 11:59:00 +0000

Bonnie and the kids

Every year, students at Five Oaks Academy in Simpsonville, South Carolina turn their attention towards the remote Azawak of West Africa, and the people they've come to know through Amman Imman: Water is Life. Their involvement started several years ago when Andrew Kutt, director of the Oneness-Family School, told them about the growing coalition of Montessori schools who have come together to help bring water to this barren plain.

Teacher Bonnie Benthall was especially moved. Supported by Five Oaks director Kathleen Trewhella-Grant, Bonnie has taken Wells of Love to conferences, presented to heads of corporations, and rallied the entire school. Her students have made speeches to other classes, at their churches and in their community. In addition to creative fundraisers held throughout the year, students age two through 12 use their athletic skills during the annual Amman-a-thon. Amman Imman has become an official charity for the South Carolina Montessori Alliance. Several South Carolina Montessori schools participate in the Wells of Love program with yearly fundraisers. Thanks to Bonnie's contagious enthusiasm, kids across South Carolina are awakening to understand their world and connecting to their brothers and sister in West Africa.

I send my heartfelt appreciation to Bonnie, Kathleen, all the Five Oaks teachers, parents, and especially our student Heroes of Compassion!

Read about how Five Oaks students raised over $6,100 this year to support Amman Imman's projects in the Azawak. Here's the article copied from the Five Oaks Academy website:

Students Raise Funds For Amman Imman: Water Is Life

Five Oaks Academy toddlers, primary kindergartners, lower elementary students, upper elementary students and middle school students recently participated in a fundraising drive to support the organization Amman Imman: Water is Life. Amman Imman is dedicated to improving and saving lives among the poorest and most abandoned populations of the world by supplying permanent sources of water in the Azawak of West Africa.

The annual fundraising drive, named Ammon-a-thon, gives students the opportunity to raise money by getting sponsors to pledge support for completing repetitions of some of their favorite outdoor activities including running laps, doing jumping jacks, throwing and bouncing balls and other physical activities. These activities provide students the opportunity to showcase their determination and support of this wonderful cause. Overall, the students jumped, bounced and sweat their way to raise over $5,000. Combined with other fundraisers done over the course of the year in support of Amman Imman, the students raised over $6,100.

Amman Imman’s global objective is to increase water security for the children and adults living in the Azawak of West Africa in order to drastically reduce the incidence and prevalence of morbidity and mortality related to water insufficiency and poor water quality, such as dehydration, diarrhea, intestinal helminthes, skin diseases, lice infestation, schistosomiosis, trachoma, etc. The project’s objectives include;

creating permanent, sustainable, and potable water sources, so that everyone within the target population has sustainable and equitable access to enough water quantity of high quality to meet their consumption, cooking, personal and domestic hygienic needs, as well as the needs of their animals,
ensuring ecologically, financially, and socially sustainable management of water quality and quantity and
improving hygiene and sanitation related knowledge and behavior among members of the target population.

Events such as the Amman-a-thon empower Five Oaks Academy students to be actively involved in helping others and engages them as global citizens. Five Oaks Academy is proud of all of its students who participated in Amman-a-thon.

The children lead at Abintra Montessori

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 23:27:00 +0000

Today I received a check for $403 from the Abintra Montessori School in Nashville, Tennessee. The story, shared by teacher Jody McDaniel, quintessentially illustrates how discovery and initiative are fostered at Montessori schools. The process these young students went through, that resulted in raising funds to help bring water to the Azawak, exemplifies the Montessori principle of "follow the child". As Jody's story shows, the children take the lead and turn their awakened knowledge into something practical.

Three cheers to Jody and the Abintra Montessori School for supporting the journey of their students! Here's Jody's letter:

Dear Friends,

Enclosed is our Abintra Montessori School check in the amount of $403. Our third and fourth year Elementary students contributed their time and energy to making this donation possible.

Their study of earth included its resources, the water cycle, the scarcity of potable water in many parts of the world, and the fragility of the balance between need, resource, management and renewal. They realized there was a need to do something about the imbalance of the availability of fresh water across the globe.

At first, they wanted to send water to Africa. As the discussion developed, they realized that trans-Atlantic shipping would not be possible and another way would have to be found. They wanted to send money to help build wells, and we began researching possibilities.

The children decided that they had to tell somebody what was happening. They wanted to start getting their message out by writing a play to perform for their parents. As the play and the song developed, both entitled "The Great Penzatti Catastrophe" they began to feel that this was not enough.

A large group of these eight and nine year old children decided to crochet bags, scarves, pencil and glasses cases, marble holders, bracelets and bookmarks to sell as a fundraiser. They persuaded our Executive Director that they should sell their items and send the money they raised to Amman Imman: Water is Life.

The check you are receiving today is a direct result of their efforts. Truly, "a little child shall lead them."

Thank you for the tremendous work you do.

Sincerely,

Jody McDaniel

Middle Elementary Guide

I'd love to hear the song or at least know the words to "The Great Penzatti Catastrophe". Wouldn't you?!

Dedicated students at Keystone Montessori make a big impact

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 15:36:00 +0000

Our Heroes of Compassion at Keystone Montessori

I first learned about Keystone Montessori in Chelmsford, Massachusetts from Sue Wood, one of the founders and business manager of the school. Sue offered to help get schools in Massachusetts involved in Amman Imman's Wells of Love program. We discussed organizing a tour of local schools to present Amman Imman. She suggested that I focus on larger schools for a bigger impact.

Warming up

Little did either of us realize that a small group of young students collaborating as a team at Keystone Montessori would make a very big impact. During this school year, 15 students in the upper classroom at Keystone Montessori, with the help of teacher Meghan Duffy, worked hard for the Azawak.

After learning about scarce water conditions in the region and finding out that they could help Amman Imman reach clean water deep in the ground, these diligent 6 - 10 year olds went to work. They participated in an Amman-a-thon, an activity that combines athletics, math and philanthropy. For three months, they practiced running laps to build their skills and endurance.

Running practice

In May, the class held their Amman-a-thon. Students ran laps in the school's yard around a course marked by cones, as their partners counted how many could run in 5 minutes. Family and friends sponsored them for $1 per lap. Parent attended the event to cheer on these humanitarian athletes.

Their hard work and dedication resulted in an accomplishment that will have a tremendous impact in saving lives in the Azawak. They raised $1,400! What an accomplishment borne out of the dedication and compassion of these young heroes!

The Amman-a-thon had an big impact on the students themselves, providing physical education and raising global awareness.

Meg Duffy wrote,

"Thanks so much for such a wonderful learning opportunity. The children, I think, have really understood what it means to be a global citizen even with 5,000 miles separating them from something they can't even imagine - having clean water."

A local paper published an article about Keystone Montessori's Amman-a-thon. It's a great article! Read it at Wicked Local or on the Wells of Love blog.

Thank you

to our dedicated Heroes of Compassion

at Keystone Montessori School!

You are making a difference!

Redeemer Montessori students exercise social responsibility

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Sat, 02 Jun 2012 16:01:00 +0000

Back in March, I received a letter from Jennifer Davey, director of the Redeemer Montessori School in Irving, Texas. The letter read:

Dear Amman Imman,

This year our school decided to support the "Wells of Love" project as part of our Valentine celebrations. The coin collection replaced our Valentine cards and was a huge success. The upper elementary students prepared posters and went to each classroom to talk about the project.

We are delighted to be able to send you a check for $1,245. We look forward to partnering with you again!

Jennifer Davey
Director, Redeemer Montessori School

School like Redeemer Montessori are ideal partners for Amman Imman's Wells of Love program. What these students accomplished, and the way they went about it, directly reflects both the intention of the Wells of Love program, and the mission of Redeemer Montessori.

Included in Redeemer Montessori's mission is the statement:

We follow the children in the journey of discovery and growth in becoming socially responsible, morally aware, global citizens.

Wells of Love educates students about pressing global issues, and provides a venue through which students can take action that directly benefits some of the world's most vulnerable populations.

The program is brought to its highest purpose when our future leaders gain awareness about the world outside their local environment, learn how their fellow human beings live, share their knowledge with others, and manifest their compassion by raising funds that will directly in bringing a positive change.

This is precisely what happened at Redeemer Montessori. The upper elementary students inspired their community to come together for the people of the Azawak. Together, they raised $1,245! The outward manifestation of social responsibility and moral awareness gained through their experience resulted in a rewarding accomplishment.

Thank you

to our Heroes of Compassion

at Redeemer Montessori School,

and the teachers and parents

who supported their efforts!

Together, we are making a difference!

Keystone Montessori in Chelmsford aids families in Africa

noreply@blogger.com (Debra Kahn) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 23:50:00 +0000

This article was originally published in the Wicked Local online news from Chelmsford, Massachusetts on May 11, 2012. Here's the original link. Credits to Molly Loughman/Wicked Local staff writer for a lovely article!

Chelmsford — It is more than 5,000 miles from Keystone Montessori School in the old mill in North Chelmsford to the Azawak region in north Central Africa, but students at the school are doing what they can to bridge that gap.

This month, a class of 6- to 10-year-olds raised $1,400 for Amman Imman, an organization devoted to providing indigenous populations in Africa with fresh water. The class of 15 participated in Wells of Love, the organization’s service learning program.

“Hopefully this will help put our little school on the map, as well as show what six-to-ten-year-olds can do,” said teacher Meghan Duffy.

Each student pledged support from family and friends for the Amman-a-thon, held on March 22, World Water Day. The Amman-a-thon is tailored for wide age groups, allowing students to choose from various activities, including hopping on one leg, twirling a hula hoop, throwing bean bags, jumping rope, running laps and more.

Despite high temperatures that day, students ran as many laps as they could for five minutes around a course marked by cones. On average, the classroom ran between 12 and 22 laps. For every lap, individuals were sponsored a dollar.

“I liked raising the money because it was fun. I hope not as much kids die because now they have more wells and I basically loved helping people in Africa, other than people in the United States,” said Mia.

Donations go to the building of borehole wells throughout the Azawak area in Africa. To tackle the project, one 10-year-old embarked on an e-mail campaign, collecting $300.

“I think this is a pretty good international fundraiser. The cool thing about this is that we can focus on one certain skill so it doesn’t have to be running. They could get better at jumping jacks or something. And it’s really good for their physical education part, too,” said Duffy.

Beginning in February, students exercised and ran laps every Thursday for five minutes. They also learned about harsh conditions in Mali and Niger, where people are forced to walk miles for fresh water.

“My favorite part of it was running the laps because it was really exercising and fun and I really liked it and that’s my favorite part,” said Zoey

Launched in 2006 Wells of Love aims to educate students about pressing global concerns, including climate change, desertification and water shortages, along with the indigenous populations affected by these issues. Amman Imman helps supply the most deprived and vulnerable indigenous regions in the world with fresh water by raising awareness and engaging individuals in fundraising.

Aside from the international fundraiser, the class donates to local charities. Last November they hosted a book sale and bake sale to buy diapers for the Wish Project and House of Hope, family homeless shelters in Lowell. Each year the class holds two big fundraisers.

These projects are largely based on one of the school’s core philosophies, to teach children how they can help the planet’s threatened resources and creatures. The Duffy’s students share the responsibilities of taking care of their classroom pets: three finches, two parakeet, two frogs, one turtle, one beta fish and one anole.

“Montessori is very different than traditional education; the basic gist is that through dynamic materials, collaboration with parents and observation of the child, the student will reach his or her fullest potential as an individual, both academically and socially, and hopefully become an 'agent of change,' a Montessori term that describes a fully grown adult who can better serve our world,” said Duffy.