Last hope for African orphans Last hope for African orphans (March 19, 2004)

Local race supports Zimbabwe children's home

By Candice Shih

Even if you've never been to Africa and don't know what sadza is, you can still participate in the Fifth Annual Run for Zimbabwe Orphans at St. Joseph School.

Proceeds from the mile-long race on March 28 will benefit the Makumbi Children's Home near Harare. The funds come from the $5 fee each runner pays, donations and profits from T-shirt sales. Last year, the run raised $14,000.

"We are the reason they're in business. We're keeping the doors of the orphanage open," said organizer and St. Joseph P.E. teacher Ellen Clark. She began the fundraiser shortly after visiting Zimbabwe in 1997 and witnessing the effect of the African AIDS epidemic.

Makumbi houses 110 children who have lost their parents to AIDS.

"It hit me over the head -- the AIDS epidemic, the orphans," said Clark. "I saw it firsthand."

The orphanage, she said, would have to close if not for the generosity of the run's participants.

For the past four years, Clark has also worked tirelessly to educate her students about Zimbabwe. Indeed, another goal the run achieves is teaching students about global awareness.

"My kids say, 'We're not just citizens of Mountain View. We're citizens of the world,'" said Clark.

One of her students, Collin Sapera, is hosting a booth at the race that will share samples of sadza, the corn meal that is the staple food of Zimbabwe. Sadza is also the name of the band that is scheduled to perform.

The first race starts at 12:30 p.m. on March 28 at St. Joseph School, 1120 Miramonte Ave., Mountain View. The final race for high school students and adults begins at 3:30 p.m. and is dedicated to Voice co-founder Kate Wakerly, who is supporting the run.

For more information, call 941-9206 or visit www.sjmv.org.

E-mail Candice Shih at editor@mv-voice.com

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