Kibera Slum Mission Trip

My name is Patrick Burke, a senior at Darien High School in Darien, CT.  This summer, I will be traveling with the organization Crossing Thresholds to the Kibera Slum, an unauthorized slum outside of Nairobi, Kenya. While being the second largest slum in the world, with nearly one million people living in extreme poverty, the Kenyan Government does not recognize the residents' rights to live there. There is no sewage, few schools and fewer medical facilities.

With a team of about 80 people, I will rebuild a school that has recently burned to the ground. Called "The Big Build", Crossing Thresholds volunteers will resurrect an entire school for 300+ children in just 10 days. I know this will be one of the most challenging but rewarding and eye-opening experiences of my life. I am excited for my trip which begins on June 22. 

As background, I was introduced to the idea of traveling to Kibera from Gary Morello, an assistant football coach at Darien High School. Gary is one of the most inspirational people I have ever met and has become a mentor to me. While facing challenges in his life, Gary traveled to help in Kibera ten years ago. He has now made it part of his life's work, while servicing our community as a Minister of the Congregational Church in Darien. I am so lucky to have met Gary and to be traveling with him and the team.

I would love and appreciate the support of friends and family willing to help me reach my fundraising goal.
The money will go directly towards the new school and supplies, in addition to other donations we will be carrying with us for the kids.

Thank you to those that feel the same way I do for these  kids who are in need of the most basic necessities. I've been told that seeing their courage, resilience and hope will touch me and remain with me forever.