Tom Gleason

Why I Sponsor

There are two major reasons I sponsor a child. 

First, opportunity:  Each of us has the ability to contribute to the human experience in so many ways.  When a person is denied the opportunity to realize their potential due to circumstances beyond their control, it is a tragedy.

Second:  One of our family values is to “be of use” in the world.  To be able to combine being “of use” with providing a child with the opportunity to find their potential to contribute to the human experience, to help themselves and perhaps their family to a more fulfilled life is wonderfully satisfying.

I have had the opportunity to travel to Africa once a year for the past six years and to share learning experiences with the children in the Ngong Road Children Association program.  Without a doubt, most of these kids realize the opportunity presented and eagerly embrace the learning - and the responsibility to utilize the opportunity provided to change their lives and the lives of others around them.  You can see it in their eyes, in their smiles, read it in their letters and feel it in their determination and love.  It is very rewarding.