THRUST OF ENERGY INSIDE THE SANCTUARY OF NATURE: WFWP 2018 RETREAT

Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) had the honor and privilege of gathering at the Calvin Center Camp in Hampton, Georgia for our retreat, August 9th to the 12th.  Upon first glance, the conference center has a serene atmosphere, manicured landscape, majestic trees, flowing rivers, walking trails, specific areas for meditation and much more. However in contrast, each day we were encouraged more and more by the opportunities for people to get away from everyday distractions, be closer to nature, offered the ability to concentrate on our new found tools, delve on issues and contemplate resolutions that were found and to study in our own way the means and strategy to implement them. New sister-hoods were formed and our excitement grew more each day!!

I was especially honored and encouraged to present the Schools of Africa (SOA) session, unveil the new SOA Booklet and present four 2018 Annual “WFWP Schools of Africa Awards” to North California, New England, Southern California, and New York (Westchester), for making the largest contributions from donations in fundraising. Two additional ladies were recognized because of their contributions to the project: WFWP Vice President Katarina Connery and former WFWP Chicago Chair Patricia Fliginger.  I also appreciate the chairs who have committed to a SOA event this year: North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, and Maryland. Congratulations to all!!  

A portion of the SOA presentation was provided by Irmgard Baynes, our Financial Administrator, who each year prepares for us the worksheets (2017-2018) that reflect incoming funds and expenditures for SOA activities. Unfortunately, we need the help and commitment of many because we are falling short of our goals. I encouraged everyone to please make a “PLEDGE” to put forth an extra effort to make a SOA fundraiser event happen in your area. The schools have made so much progress because of OUR motivation and encouragement!!! We now have many pictures, testimonies, letters, Thank You notes and videos that prove they value WFWP USA’s continued support.

During the three days of the retreat, several SOA gifts and mementos were given by raffle for participation in games, exercises, dance moves, best African dress, and especially completing the word puzzle that identifies the African countries.  I hope the motivation and encouraging words you shared in regards to fundraising will not be lost, and the overall theme of the retreat “Uplift, Transform, and Collaborate”will not be diminished quickly. Let the generosity continue as we continue to “Live for the Sake of Others.”

Be blessed my sisters,

Fannie M. Smith – WFWP US Schools of Africa Coordinator