It has been an incredible first two weeks for MAYOO’s pioneering campaign in the United States. The outpouring of support and donations has exceeded far beyond our wildest dreams. We would like to give a big thank you to those of you who attended an event, helped raise awareness or donated to our cause. We have been truly blessed.

During Jonathan’s first week after adjusting to the cold northeast climate and 7 hour time change, Jonathan met with American sponsors to provide updates about the girls that have been supported through their contributions. We met with Marah Flemer, the Duffields, Steve Hayes and Doug Latham to provide letters, grade updates and photos to foster these budding relationships.

Jonathan with sponsor Steven Hayes outside a local breakfast joint

Following the first weeks meetings, Jonathan, Tristan and Steve had a busy week ahead giving talks at St. John’s Preparatory High School. The school was incredibly supportive and helpful in raising awareness of the issues facing the Maasai community. One of the most powerful aspects of the talks that the students enjoyed was the attempt at carrying a 20 liter water jug “like a Maasai” to demonstrate how difficult this daily task is and provide a greater appreciation for the impact the water piping project will have. We would like to thank St. Johns Prep for continuing to foster a positive environment where students are encouraged to combat inequality and learn about global issues.

Jonathan speaking to St. Johns Prep students

Tristan and Steve help load the water jug for a student demonstration

Jonathan takes a selfie with a student

On Thursday night a fundraiser soiree was held at the Hackett household with tremendous turnout. In what turned into a very interactive town hall type discussion, over 30 members of the local Ipswich community came by to hear Jonathan speak about the issues that MAYOO is helping to combat.  The event was a huge success resulting in the sponsorship of 9 girls in need! The Ipswich community also donated funds to help complete the water project which is now within reach. We want to thank those of you who attended the event for your incredible generosity and warm hearts.

Jonathan with Kristen (Left), Sponsor Marah (right) and Ryder, at the event!

Jewelry being sold at the event

Despite all of the recent generosity and positive outpouring of support there is still more work to be done. Next week MAYOO will be meeting with the new prospective sponsors so that they can meet the girls who will benefit from their incredible kindness. Also MAYOO will be going to New York City to meet with larger organizations with the hopes of creating a stronger American network of support.

Thank you all for reading and keeping up with our organization as it continues to grow.

Ashe Oleng!

MAYOO Founder Jonathan Simel is in the United States for the first time and is being hosted by former volunteers. Jonathan will be in the United States for a month, speaking at various schools, churches and community groups to raise awareness for the issues that face Maasai community.

When asked about his goals for the month long stay in the United States, he stated ” I hope to have the water project completed.” The water project, is the plan to pipe clean water to the village of Ingarooj, which relies mainly on collected rain water and 45 min walks to the closest tank. The fundraising project began with Tristan Hackett and Steve Pasinski’s efforts in February and have since been advanced by Kyle and Sherry Anderson, who have started a crowdfunding site (click here to visit) for the project, which is already halfway towards the goal! Jonathan hopes that by selling the jewelry he has brought from Maasailand that the project will be completed.

Tristan and Jonathan enjoy the fall foliage

Jonathan will be staying on the North Shore of Boston during his first two weeks in the United States with Tristan and Steve. They will be presenting on MAYOO at St. Johns Prep, Ipswich Public Schools, and private events to both raise awareness and funds for the cause. Then he will be taking a trip to visit New York in hopes of connecting with some larger organizations in the big city. Following his trip to the Big Apple Jonathan will be staying with Sherry Anderson and future volunteer Janet Biondi, who is planning to visit Jonathan in Ingarooj this coming winter. Jonathan is very excited to meet the new volunteers and is thrilled by their enthusiasm for the project.

Jonathan goes to the beach for the first time!

MAYOO is very thankful for the blessings of new friendships, volunteers and incredible hospitality. We hope that through continued efforts we can go on to achieve great things!

Ashe Oleng!