Malcolm’s Journey to East Africa
Malcolm Hill, 17, and his twin sister Veronica from Michigan, knew fundraising was their best option to get them to East Africa, but what they didn’t realize was the amount of people they would meet in their community while doing it. Collectively, their efforts offset more than half the cost of their trip—over $8,000.
How did you find out about the trip?
My sister found out through her Canadian friend who lives in Ontario. She told me about it and we decided we wanted to go. At that point, we knew we didn’t have the money and would have to fundraise, but we really wanted the experience.
How was Kenya? What was most memorable?
It was all really cool and so incredible. One thing that stands out was when I was playing soccer with a group of kids who were using a tennis ball wrapped in rags. I knew that people didn’t have much there, but it’s not until you actually see it that you really understand. 
What ideas did you come up with to fundraise?
Our mom helped us make an action plan and the biggest part of our fundraising was going door-to-door to get donations and spread awareness. We made professional flyers and gave them to everyone we saw. We got the local newspaper to do a story and we talked to local community clubs. Our big event was a pancake breakfast we held at a community center. We cleared over $2,000 and put on a show with our dad emceeing, Veronica highland dancing and me playing my snare drum.
Did you have any challenges fundraising?
Going door-to-door was tough at times—halfway through our spiel about going to Africa and building a school, people would close the door. It’s a little disappointing, but you have to remember there are more people out there to talk to.
What advice would you offer to someone who wants to fundraise?
Use your school! Visit every classroom, give a little spiel about what you’re doing. As soon as a couple of kids start donating, peer pressure kicks in and more will donate because their friends are. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just keep the end goal in mind. I knew I was going to be travelling to Kenya, but had to keep reminding myself to stay motivated.
Interested in going on your own ME to WE Trip? Visit www.metowe.com/trips to get started!
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