Peace and Progress in Palestine!

Family and Friends:

I have long been passionate about volunteerism, social justice, human rights, and immersing myself in the understanding of other cultures.
I have a strong desire to gain knowledge, broaden my perspective as a human being, and to be an advocate for change when it comes to ignorance, fear, hatred, racism, judgment, xenophobia, and negative stereotypes at every level. 

I consistently intend on spending more time and effort doing for others...but, like many of us, I get wrapped up in how busy life has become. 

After months of research, I found and accepted an opportunity to volunteer in Palestine for one month in 2018, and am asking for your generosity and support to help raise money for my host family with living expenses during my stay.

I am asking only for donations that will go directly to my Palestinian host family who will be housing me, as well as the costs associated with getting to and from the location sites where I'll be working over the course of the month. 
I will incur all costs relating to flights, travel, language classes, leisure activities, and incidentals. 

Should the degree of risk increase to an unsafe level, or any other unforeseeable factors become an issue, and I’m unable to volunteer as planned, all contributions will be fully refunded.

Once the director of my assigned program finds a proper fit to match my skillset, I will be volunteering in one or many areas...this could be assisting with displaced people in a refugee camp, educational programs, teaching English, computer skills, community building, and cross-cultural discussion. 

I will be taking a twelve week course in introductory Arabic starting in January.
My hope is that not only will I be more comfortable upon arrival, but out of respect for the family I'll be living with, and that my work will be more effective with some basic language skills. 

I understand and respect that everyone has differing opinions and knowledge about the political situation in Palestine, and I am open to listening and/or discussing these topics privately...but my sole intent for the time I spend abroad is to be of service and to help those in need. 

Whether you're able to make a donation, or will offer me a positive note of support, I am grateful and appreciative to all of you! 

My goal is to post a journal and pictures of my experiences at least once per week on Facebook. 

Thank you so much!

-Nina
✌️❤️

*Please note:
Edward Barder CPA (aka my Dad) is set as the financial beneficiary, and will oversee and manage all donations from my fundraiser.