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!