From Hesitation to Action: Returning for the 2026 Mellon Educate Building Blitz!

I’ll admit it, I wasn't entirely sure I’d be writing this post this year. With everything happening globally, particularly the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, moving countries and the possibility of disruption of travel plans.

But after a lot of reflection, my boss, Adam and I realised that the mission matters now more than ever. We are officially heading back to South Africa this November for our second consecutive year together and my third with the Mellon Educate Building Blitz! ️

Because of the delay in locking things in, we are launching our charity GoFundMe campaign incredibly late this year. We face a tight deadline to secure everything by the end of October. ⏳

Unfinished Business:

For those who remember my trip last year, it didn't exactly end on a high note. I managed to get sick, spent 4 days in a South African hospital, and completely missed the final handover ceremony & celebratory party! This year, alongside raising crucial funds, my personal goal is simple: stay healthy, stay out of a hospital bed, and make it to that final celebration with the team.

What we are doing:

Alongside hundreds of global volunteers, Adam Riccio and I will trade our daily office routine for hard hats, I on the cement mixers and Adam back on the tools and roofing. Our mission is to build and refurbish vital school infrastructure in some of South Africa's most under-resourced township communities, ensuring local children get the educational foundations they deserve.

How you can help:

To make this happen, we need to fundraise for the building supplies, construction materials, and long-term literacy programs that keep these schools thriving year-round. Every single contribution large or small directly builds a brighter, safer future for these learners.

If you’ve made it this far, please sponsor me and help raise the funds needed for this important work - every donation counts, big or small! Let’s build a brighter future together!

Heartfelt thanks for your support, I’m forever grateful for your kindness.

Love Carly & Adam at Jadco ❤️