South Africa Service Learning Trip

Can you imagine living in a country filled with majestic creatures like lions and penguins but having never seen one outside of a book? Many people have the opportunity to see animals that are not native to their country, such as lions, giraffes, and penguins through zoo attractions. Yet there are places where animals like those are native and very common, however, a large portion of the population has never seen them.  Well, that's the reality for the children at Manenberg Primary School in South Africa. Grand Valley State University's School of Social Work is participating in an independent study trip to Manenberg, South Africa!
12 students and 9 social work professionals will travel to Manenberg, South Africa to learn and serve in the local community. One goal of our trip will be to provide funding for approximately 60 students to travel with us to Boulder Beach to see penguins for the first time!! For many of the students, this will be the first time they have ever left The students' will also focus on creating a library system and a portable library to provide young students with more opportunities to learn. 
Our fundraising goal is $5,000. Any money we raise before leaving will be used to create the library, and bring students to Boulder Beach! Any and all donations are appreciated. Every penny counts!


Below is a video about the trip to Manenberg in 2013 that was created by students who went on this once in a lifetime opportunity!