When Sally and I learned that there was an opportunity to go to Ethiopia, we jumped at the chance. We were interested in seeing first hand how COEEF works. It was evident from our first school visit to the last that the program is efficient, effective, and life changing. Our experiences with the Ethiopian people changed our lives as well.

The loving nature and the grace of Ethiopians is inspiring. Despite uncertain and meager incomes, often extremely humble dwellings, and little in the way of comforts of life as we know them, they approach each day with energy and a positive attitude. That optimism becomes a reality when children have a COEEF sponsor. Rest assured your donations are changing the lives of not only each individual student, but each family as well.

When visiting a little two room school in Axum, we were surprised and moved by the reception in the school yard that we received. Every mother of sponsored children was there to greet us. After much song and dance, each mother searched through our small American group, hoping that one of us was the sponsor of their child. The love, hope, and aspirations of these mothers for their children was overwhelming. Not for the first time, I fought back tears. As "Mr. Norm" says, GOING to Ethiopia is easy. Coming BACK is what's difficult.

We are blessed to live in a place of comfort and opportunity. We feel DOUBLY blessed to have the opportunity to share and give, in a small way, the gift of education and hope.

Lee Jepsen