Build On Hope's Junior Ambassador Program Makes a Big Impact in South Florida
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Lauren Babitz and Build On Hope founder, Patti van Tonder meet for lunch to discuss upcoming fundraising strategies.
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Hard to believe the lazy days of summer are quickly slipping by us. For Lauren Babitz, 13, of Pembroke Pines, FL, her summer vacation was anything but a respite from her desire to build awareness about Build On Hope. Lauren was fortunate to meet Build On Hope founder Patti van Tonder in January 2010 at a community festival. Like most 13 year
olds she was drawn to a unique piece of jewelry called a Kudu Klip
(www.kuduklip.com). Intrigued by the intricate bead work of this
fine hair jewelry, Lauren wanted to know more of the origin of the craft
and has made Build On Hope's Kudu Klip her passion.
As a self-proclaimed "expert fundraiser" Lauren has been working hard through the summer to raise funds for Build On Hope's efforts to support children and the elderly in Haiti and Africa as well as support their recent efforts to help local families here in South Florida. Her fundraisers include a series of Lemonade, Cookies and Kudu Klips sales in her local park. She recently explained that a regular check up at the dentist lent itself to a perfect opportunity to show all the nurses her Kudu Klip and talk about Build On Hope. "There are many great parts of being involved with Build On Hope. I think my favorite part is knowing that I'm making a difference and helping people that really need it.", said Babitz at a recent luncheon with Patti. Lauren was diligent in bringing some computer print-outs on research she had done independently on Mozambique. With a genuine compassion to give whatever she can to make a difference, this 13 year old Middle School student truly shines in her pursuit to make a difference.
Through the efforts of community ambassadors and supporters, and now the launch of Build On Hope's Junior Ambassador program, students in South Florida will have an opportunity to share the desire to build awareness among their peers and in their extra-curricular programs. Build On Hope's Ambassador program welcomes students that want to help promote Kudu Klips and Build On Hope as well as teaches students the fundamental needs of the people struggling not only in South Florida but in countries around the world. Through a recent program at Bethany Christian School in Fort Lauderdale, Build On Hope is teaching local students about the value of aquaponics systems and the impact it could have on a third world community. "It is our hope to gain the support of the county school boards as well as build partnerships with local suppliers to provide these tools to grow the program in the school systems." explained Patti Van Tonder, Build On Hope founder.
When asked what she'd like to be when she grows up, Lauren confidently replied that she wants to be a published novelist. "I'm always writing stories, so I would love to take it one step further and publish a series of books. I hope that people around the world will read my books." Lauren's also taken her love for writing one step further on behalf of Build On Hope and has sent a letter, along with several Kudu Klips, to Oprah. She hopes that Oprah may try them and tell everyone she knows about the jewelry you can wear in your hair. "It would be so exciting to have Oprah call me and say she'd like to learn more about Build On Hope and maybe even give a Kudu Klip to everyone in her audience. That would make me feel like I've done the best I can for Build On Hope and all the people who are in need."
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