Actress and Activist

'Tis the Season!

2011-12-13T19:29:00.001-06:00

While many of us will be enjoying extra treats this season, delicious chocolates, candy canes, sugar cookies, things that warm our heart and souls... the reality is, there will be many who will go without a meal each day. Do I say this to encourage guilt? No! We should enjoy this special season! BUT we should also understand the facts of the world we live in and ask ourselves how we can give back? What small things can we give up this holiday season to help make a large difference in someone else's life? When we fully understand how much we are capable of, we can excel and encourage others to do the same. Once you understand, you can't pretend you don't ;) That's a good thing!

If you're new to this blog, we've been grateful to feed 145 students at the CHETI school, located in Arusha, Tanzania (East Africa) for two years now. These students are courageous, bright, and eager to learn! They have such desire to be educated, to be happy and, most important, to be healthy.

It's been estimated that 38% of the children in this region under 5 years old are chronically malnourished. When we help provide food at school each day, it encourages the children to attend school, to focus and this helps them retain their lessons. Our goal this year is to raise the funds to feed these students for all of 2012 before it even hits! What can we sacrifice this season to make that happen?

In the spirit of the holidays and the importance of giving back, I promise to personally match every dollar that's donated toward their food up to $2,000. You and I will do this together!

Keep in mind, 100% of all donations go directly toward the children's food as our non-profit, Global Empathy Now, is run by volunteers driven by a passion for change.

All donations can be made safely and securely on our website.
Below, you can see video footage to learn more about the school and our project.

Take a look at the Global Empathy Now site for more information. We appreciate you to no end. These children have been successfully fed for 2 years because of compassionate people like yourself! Let's you and I make year 3 another success!! Thank you SO much and God bless!

Imani means Faith | It's Not For Sissies

2011-11-16T11:25:00.005-06:00

Experiencing personal loss of my own this past month, I have ached feeling that I have been somewhat hopeless, abandoned, truly lost. And sometimes, keeping faith and trust is hard.

I have come to realize... I've been acting absurd. Hear me out.

In Kiswahili, faith is called, "Imani." An appropriate name for the orphanage I worked at in Nairobi, Kenya. Home to hundreds of abandoned children left in dumpsters, paper bags, rolled up carpets, dropped in alleys, all throughout the slums of Nairobi. Now hold on, actually think about that (not to be so morbid), but a baby wrapped in a paper bag, rolled up in a carpet... It makes my heart ache. Disposed of in a dumpster before having any chance at protecting their own lives. They are babies. Okay...

While an orphan is by definition one abandoned or lost, deprived of protection, here are children who are found, loved, and renewed. Found. Loved. Renewed.
If these children can be found, loved, and restored before any chance at saving themselves, then what on earth is my excuse in times of trouble? I don't have one and I can't. We all have the opportunity to be restored. No matter what our circumstances. We are strong and have remarkable gifts to offer. Time to regroup. Time to choose happiness. Time to empathize with others and be grateful.

Challenges, the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, illness, addiction... those things can be overwhelming, it is so true. But we can't forget to see how blessed we are to have family and friends who will never fail to love us, and help us be re-strengthened. Don't be afraid to reach out for help, nor afraid to give back. Life is just too short not to. We can't take a single person or a single moment for granted.

These children have struggles. Out of a soiled paper bag, a tattered, insect-ridden cloth, but they have endless smiles, WIDE EYED eager loving views of the world. Someone cared enough to bring them in. They are brothers and sisters through renewal and faith. So are you and I.

You would not believe how they look after one another.
A view of the slums from Imani's rooftop.

Consolata is a beautiful young Kenyan girl who works at Imani. She comes in almost every day to wipe the children's bottoms, change their clothes, feed them, hold them... most importantly, "just to show them love," she says. And she loves them. "Wipe them this way," she guides me. "Let's change his clothes." "Let's hold this one." "Let's let this one cry it out, but know that we're still here." Again, she says... "Let's let this one cry it out, but know that we're still here." Going through a difficult time? Cry it out if you need to. But know that God's still here. I am not alone. You are not alone. We are not alone.

Remember these children and understand that.

Beyond grateful to see these children so well taken care of at Imani. They are handled with great care. Want to contribute to them or just learn more, contact me: britni.tozzi@gmail.com or visit their website: http://www.imanikids.org/

Most importantly, take care of one another. Take care of yourself. Forgive yourself for mistakes. Forgive others for their mistakes. Give someone a chance. Be renewed in the love of those around you and the love of God. Keeping faith in times of struggle is tough, but I am telling you, do NOT give up. It's hard for a reason. Remember these children. And when you can't find the strength to do any of that, just breathe...

God gave you air in your lungs that moves freely on its own, to help your heart keep beating, to help your brain keep working, to help your hands keep reaching... so -- keep reaching...keep giving...keep loving... Keep faith.

To my family and friends... thank you for looking after me. :)

God is good. Life is good. And even when it's not.... it will be.... trust.

Unwavering Faith | The Rugged Altruists

2011-08-24T00:51:00.002-05:00

With new opportunities brought toward me, new challenges, and decisions to be made, I spoke to a dear old friend about the road ahead; of course, gathering as much information as I could so as to make the "smartest and best decision" possible. "Unwavering faith," he said. "Unwavering faith."
.... How could I forget?

Sometimes, no matter how much we work, no matter how many facts we gather, no matter how much we pride our intelligence, we forget the great power of unwavering faith and trust. Whether it be in God, in life, or in us as human beings -- if unwavering faith is at the core of what we do and, most importantly, what we do for others, we can't go wrong. After all, we can't control everything.

We've worked with exhaustion researching projects to better our missions abroad, the price of food goes up, the price of food goes down, the soil could be fertile, the soil could be ruined... and on, and on, and on, and on... have FAITH. You can't control the world around you, but you can do your best to stay committed and grateful.

Today I read The Rugged Altruists, an article written by David Brooks of the New York Times. It highlights the unfortunate truth that not all large non-profits or volunteers can end up being helpful when serving abroad. But, it also highlights the percentage who become and remain useful through their virtues and their faith in what they do. It highlights truly brave and selfless individuals and I encourage you to read the full article. The rugged altruists, those who do not seek the spotlight, but rather experience much struggle, pain and difficulty, AND remain hopeful and faithful, committed to their work. The Rugged Altruists:

"Many Americans go to the developing world to serve others. A smaller percentage actually end up being useful. Those that do have often climbed a moral ladder."

"The first virtue they possess is courage, the willingness to go off to a strange place."

"The second virtue they develop is deference, the willingness to listen and learn from the moral and intellectual storehouses of the people you are trying to help."

"The greatest and most essential virtue is thanklessness, the ability to keep serving even when there are no evident rewards — no fame, no admiration, no gratitude."

"This final virtue is what makes service in the developing world not just an adventure, a spiritual experience or a cinematic moment. It represents a noncontingent commitment to a specific place and purpose."

A commitment to this work is not easy and I commend and thank every volunteer out there who has made such committed sacrifices for others. There are endless obstacles, I see them every day, but it is those small groups with unwavering faith in their mission who, in my opinion, can, and often do, make the biggest difference.

During my time in Nairobi, Kenya, I had the opportunity to speak in depth with an incredible Kenyan woman who has such COMMITMENT to helping her people. She goes on to tell me her great concerns in the large organizations who come in, making equally large decisions without involving the locals in some fashion. Grateful to live among them for some time, I could see and understand her point. But she also shared with me beautiful stories and photos of past volunteers who've worked with her, returning home to their native country with a personal and intimate COMMITMENT to bettering the lives of the Kenyan people. They work in small organizations, and they do it with care. These are the rugged altruists that Mr. Brooks speaks of, and I cannot thank them enough for all they do.

Committed volunteer work is not easy, but it is not meant to be. Global Empathy Now is up and running, and I'm thankful to have a partner (you're amazing, Randy) and a team who serve when there are no evident rewards. I'm thankful for the faith that keeps us going, even when obstacles knock us down. And, I am thankful we have created a non-profit valuing the importance of being hands on, personal, and intimate. How can the truth of this work not be, after all? I am proud of all who've been involved and I respect you greatly. To all you rugged altruists all over the world, those who risk their lives to help another, those who make major sacrifices, those with deep and genuine love for people, I thank you and love you to no end for your unwavering faith in all you do.

Making the Choice to Give | And Give Thanks

2011-04-21T23:43:00.007-05:00

No one in life can really force you to make good decisions, to give, to give thanks. Those are choices you must make for yourself. And really, they're only more meaningful when you do so on your own. You may be coerced into cleaning up after yourself, doing a friend a favor, exercising, or making a contribution to something you don't necessarily care about. But, it's about digging deeper and helping because you, well, want to help. Because, hopefully, in some fashion, you care. You can make the CHOICE to care. No one is going to force you to make good decisions in life. Well, they may, but how good are they if the intention is empty? You choose how you want to live and what you want to give. People may lead you, inspire you, show you the way. But, ultimately, it is up to you to live with gratitude and compassion. Making the choice to give, and give thanks.
This is Keith. An incredibly infectious smile, eh?

Keith is a Peer Educator for KENWA (Kenya Network of Women with AIDS). KENWA helps treat and empower both men and women who are HIV+, encouraging them that life goes on after the discovery of illness; that there is reason to move forward with strength, courage, hope, and power. Keith spends his time with KENWA talking to people in the slums, educating them about HIV; not the easiest task, I can promise you that. But, Keith persists. He gives comfort, reassurance, heads through the slum three times a week talking to people, holding a session every month to give information on treatment and prevention. "People come back," he explained to me with a smile. They see hope in him, and they listen. And people begin to better accept and understand the reality of HIV/AIDS, and they seek counseling because of his efforts. He teaches teens and families not to feel embarrassed, but rather empowered by their strengths and skills. And he encourages marital and family values, the importance of healthy respect and commitment. Door to door he goes, because he knows some men are too scared to come out to KENWA. But he does not judge them. Rather, he helps people get jobs, get off drugs, encouraging them to utilize their skills and talents toward developing a business, making a revenue for their family, and staying busy with healthy hobbies.

Three times a week, he works in the Kiambiu slum. The reality is, it can be very dangerous, dirty, and it is estimated that one in every household of the Kiambiu slum is HIV+, but Keith sees people - not the disease. He instills strength - and he does it with a smile.

"Sometimes, we just spend time together," he explained to me. Building trust and hope through friendship. So. Why does Keith do all this? He doesn't have to. No one forces him. No one tells him to take on the daunting task of opening people's minds to a better, healthier, and happier way of living. But, he does it. He makes the choice to. Because he sees a community, a world worth helping, and so, he's been at it with KENWA since 2008. It's difficult to see death, illness, and destruction, and well, just want to give up! I can say truthfully, I have now seen and understood in some fashion that true frustration they experience -- It can crush your soul and make you careless. But Keith sees hope, potential, skill, courage, and a better tomorrow -- he makes that happen with a beautiful commitment to his people.
Make the choice to give. It's not always easy, but that's the point. Challenge yourself. You will never regret it. What you give will come back ten fold. And no, it's not always easy to sacrifice. But, it's worth it. And, I don't mean just get out there and start throwing money at every organization you see - I'm saying live with an open attitude to making a better life for others in your every day life! And challenge yourself to do so in various ways.

How do you want to live your life and what do you want to give? How can you give it? How do you want to empower others? What do you have to offer and what makes you happy about that? What are you grateful for?

A month ago, I wrote a post sharing that I would match every dollar up to $1,000 donated to Global Empathy Now with a personal donation toward relief for Japan. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't completely choked up by the immediate outpour of people pitching in - with enthusiasm! This is what I'm talking about -- you didn't have to pitch in - it's easy to assume someone else will or to assume you can't do much -- but, you chose to give and so many of you even advanced the mission to others with such great affection for the goal and those in need.

Within just two days, you donated over $1,000. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. We did this together and you helped me take on a fantastic challenge. You Are Outstanding. I don't even have the words.

THANK YOU for doing your part. Here is mine, as promised:

God bless. Thank you for being here. Love yourself, what you are, and what you have to give. Let's strive to give with intelligence and meaning.

Thank you.

To Practice What I Preach:

2011-03-17T09:48:00.013-05:00

I'd like to extend my deepest appreciation to all who've come back to visit and have been interested in following this mission! I've been back from Africa for some time now and promise with everything in me; I've not been neglecting these updates, but rather working harder than ever on setting a strong foundation to our non-profit and its upcoming projects. I have plenty to share, but first things first, I'm here to make what I pray will be a fruitful proposal for you and me, and most importantly, for those we are empathizing with:

If you're new to this journal, we've gratefully been feeding up to 145 underprivileged Tanzanian children at school every day for over an entire year now. I AM IN AWE of all those who've chosen to change their lives. Thank you and congratulations - this would not be happening without you!! As we are working hard to research a project to help develop and encourage a means of self-sufficiency, we must continue to feed these children, who, I am DEEPLY humbled to share, are progressing! I can't wait to share stories and photos. However, this does not mean their needs have evaporated into thin air. We must continue on. It is crucial at this time that we continue to allow for furtherance in their nutrition and, just as important, their education. They still need you and we must keep moving.

But....... there is SO MUCH going on right now in Japan. While we cannot forget the needs of our children, we also cannot close our eyes to the greatly difficult time which Japan is currently facing.

I'd like to make the following proposal: Every single dollar that is donated to Global Empathy Now between now and April 17, benefiting the children's food program in Tanzania, I promise to PERSONALLY match by making a donation toward relief for Japan.

What does this mean?
This means you are not only taking part in supporting the lives of over 100 children in Africa, but you are also encouraging me to donate more toward the critically urgent relief for Japan. I am doubling your donation; I am doubling the causes you reach; the people you touch; and the amount. I am humbled and honored to do this for you and them. So, can we work together? Donate $10 to GEN? I donate $10 to Japan. Donate $100 to GEN? I'll donate $100 to Japan.

Were you thinking of donating to Japan, just haven't done it yet?
Now, your donation can have DOUBLE the impact.

How much can I match?
No, I'm not monetarily busting from the seams in any fashion, but also do not fear the risk and sacrifice of making an adjustment for those who need it most. I will match a total of $1,000. If reached, I'd be honored to re-evaluate what I can and will realistically do from that point forward. Are you with me?

***Please note: I am BLOWN AWAY - Just TWO days after this post, we successfully reached $1,000 - CONGRATULATIONS!!! That means $1,000 for Africa and $1,000 for Japan!! TOGETHER, we did it and CAN do anything!! I encourage you to KEEP on giving no matter what - to GEN OR Japan - there is, of course, still a GREAT need! Do some good! Thank you and God bless!

Give. Live. Be Brave. Empathize. Empower. And be grateful. Every single day is a blessing.

Donations can be made safely and securely through PayPal, by our "Donation" button on the right. Please contact me with questions.

Let's make a difference together. And never, ever give up faith in what you can do in life - for yourselves, your families, and most importantly, the world around you! Get out there and do some good! God bless!

A very special thank you to:
Bob and Paula Chess
David and Judy Lam
Randolph Lam
Hitesh Patel
Marci Rathburn
Bryan and Christina Schindler
Mark Tozzi
Tara, Ashley, and Michael Tozzi

Seeds of Growth | Great Thanks to You

2010-12-26T08:10:00.094-06:00

It's the day of the journey and I need to give a huge THANK YOU to all who have supported the mission this year - this truly could not have been done without you and I cannot express my immense gratitude toward all who have contributed funds, those who have contributed their well wishes, prayers, emotional support, interest, insight, care; you are what keeps this going strong, so thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done. We are planting seeds to improve lives, and we are seeking and living out a fruitful growth for others. Sometimes, it's true, the world just needs a little nourishment, guidance, understanding in order to grow on its own - and I am floored by the number of gracious hearts I've come into contact with, encouraging that fruitful growth with your choice to give. It's a beautiful blessing and you blow me away.

A very special thank you to each of the following:

James and Susan Monro
Mary Decker
Gary and Lisa Stewart
Steven and Beth Toth
Steven G.M. Stein
Joel Rhiner
Charles Wahtola
Carl Popovsky
Behzad Dabu
Jeff Sabo
David and Judy Lam
Mark Corrado
Carla Sachi
Matthew O'Hearn
Michael and Char Seminatore
Robert Hasman
Nick and Leanne Tozzi
Paula and Robert Chess
Tara Tozzi
Mark Tozzi
Ashley Tozzi
Renie Prokopius
Paul and Collette Prokopius
Randolph Lam
Gino Pennacchio
Richard Lucas
Jessica Romanowski
Seth Arkin
Lindsay Betz
Christopher Wilson
Michelle McGinnis
Glenn and Trina Hasman
Marc and Rhonda Wien

I look forward to sharing the experiences with you and will be giving it my all. I'm very thankful for all we've been able to accomplish this year and am eager to make strong, fruitful, intelligent decisions to see what more we can do in the future! Your desire to learn and your openness to give is vital in life and I thank you so much for that. Together, we can do great things. If there's one thing I've come to very much value this past year, it is the positivity of what can be done when we work together.

To my family, R.Lam, G.P.: You are everything to me and keep me running every day. Thank you for your support, your patience, your passion and compassion. I love you with all my heart - thank you for making this world better with all you do. I pray that I can give back to the world even a fraction of all the love you've given me. Thank you and I love you.

Happy Holidays, everyone. Please have a safe and Happy New Year! I appreciate your prayers as I head off and will look forward to sharing all I learn upon my return. If I can update from Africa, I will, but in the mean time, take care of yourselves - stay open, stay happy :) Pay it forward. To all who've reached out to help others this holiday season, thank you. No matter where it is, or what it is, it's important and it's a great thing.
God bless!

Maasai Morning

2010-12-22T22:52:00.037-06:00

Sometimes we forget that something as simple as the sunrise is a miracle; another chance to see the world anew. In Maasai land, the traditional sheets worn around their bodies (called shúkà) are even more beautiful by day. A kaleidoscope of rich vibrant color folded throughout the land. It is truly breathtaking and makes you even more thankful that this culture has chosen to maintain its traditional customs in so many ways. In a world where we're seeking the fastest and newest, they're choosing the oldest. There's something to be said for getting back to basics. Much beauty to be found there. I'm thankful to have seen a great sense of contentment and liberty in simplicity.The Maasai community is often patriarchal and sometimes, but not always, polygamous. Many have a chief, or Laibon, which is a spiritual leader. Below is the chief of this village whom we had the great pleasure of greeting. As a gift for welcoming us into the community, we brought sugar and flour. I'd like to "borrow a cup of sugar" from these guys everyday. ;) In the middle of the night, it had begun to rain and a man came to take us from our tents to a school building where we could stay dry. "Who is this?" I had asked my friend. "He is the chief's son." he explained. I thought I had met about 6 or 7 of them already. It is not unusual for them to have several wives and therefore many children. Although, a good Maasai friend of mine has wishes to marry only one woman. Another great point that labels on any society or community cannot always be followed.And I awoke in the morning to the sound of a young boy shouting in the distance. Herding cattle. Cattle are incredibly important to the Maasai lifestyle. Traditionally, they would attempt to live off the cattle alone - meat, milk, sometimes the blood, but today it is not unlikely for them to also grow crops and exchange food and goods with other people, etc. Over time, with colonial progression and developments in government, the Maasai have been restricted from certain parts of the land due to governmental projects, the acquisition of private property and farming, and wildlife parks. This has caused a great stress on the Maasai, but many are still pursuing, maintaining and appreciating their traditional customs. They are, indeed, quite peaceful after all. In my time there, it was my impression that the Maasai live quite graciously off the land and have a deep respect for the world around them. It is an inspiration to me, to value what God has already put on the earth, and to use it purposefully and respectfully.

On that note, their homes, called enkaji, are made beautifully from sticks, grass, cow droppings, soil and sometimes ash.

And the women... shy, yet playful and curious. I'm eager to learn more about them. The women are often responsible for all domestic tasks; milking cows, collecting water, cooking and looking after the children. They are adorned in beautiful beaded jewelry consistently made with interesting patterns, bright colors, and shining circular pieces which jingle with each motion. A true sight to see. Long, dangling earrings. Stretched ear lobes. Beautiful customs.

Included in those customs are the circular burns the Maasai have on their bodies. Sometimes on their cheeks, sometimes on their arms. They are a ritualistic marking as one of the Maasai community. When I received mine, it was a symbol of acceptance and being welcome into their community. Some have commented that the burns are given to show strength in that one should not make a noise while receiving one. However, I must admit, mine did not hurt. But, this idea may come from that of the men (and sometimes women) who are not to make a noise while being circumcised. I'm unclear as to whether that tradition still remains.

And meet my husband! No, I kid. I kid. ;) He had asked for me to join him over by the chief so that we could marry. I jokingly said yes before learning it's no joke at all. Lesson learned. It's not unusual to marry at a very young age in this culture. His hair was incredible. Traditionally, the Maasai with longer hair were/are the warriors of the tribe. Not a bad choice for a "husband," eh?

Truly beautiful children. The flies in the morning are outrageous, crawling near your nose, your ears, your mouth. We took turns whisking them off each other's faces. True friendship right there. But, in all sincerity, sometimes it is as simple as that. The African people, those in the village, the town, the slums, are all so eager to take care of one another and value the aspect of community. I appreciate that more than I can convey and it has inspired me to work deeper as part of a community here. Providing small kindnesses for one another every day can never be underestimated. We can offer the world so much more by starting with simple gestures of love and kindness. We can be stronger and better in that way. Thank you for being here.

Interested in sponsoring a child's education? Please feel free to visit this program: http://www.sponsorcheti.org created by past volunteers of Cheti for aid in the funding of children's education. Another great way to give back!

Next up: My thank you letter to you all - the recent contributors toward the next Nairobi mission; the children's food program; all the amazing supporters - followed by a year in review. You can change a life forever by slightly altering your own, and you are. I cannot express my immense gratitude toward all who've reached out and made a difference. Thank you for being here; God bless and Happy Holidays!

Thank you, Seth Arkin, for this gracious article: Role of a Lifetime: Heading Back to Africa
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Our Wounds are a Blessing

2010-11-22T20:32:00.037-06:00

Wounds are scary, but wounds are a blessing. They are beautiful. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I thought I'd share this story.

Volunteering is sometimes dangerous and it's not always easy - in fact, it's often not. It can be incredibly stressful and challenging, but in my opinion, that makes it all the more poignant and worthwhile.

About a month after my return from Africa (when this photo was taken), I noticed a terrible rash developing on my arm. Large red bumps began to appear and they were incredibly painful. I had a hard time agreeing to see the doctor because... well... I couldn't quite bear the thought that the children I taught could not receive good medical treatment and I could. It just wasn't fair. I could not bear it. But, it took me time to realize that it is a blessing that I can receive care and for that, I should understand it as a blessing and it put it good use. Truth is, it is not fair that some of us in this world may have things that others don't, but we must appreciate what we're able to have and see it as a gift; and we must give back. In this way, we can be our best selves and offer more to the world. We are no good to anyone if we are not good to ourselves. I've come to better understand that one.

I finally saw the doctor and it was suggested that it might be something from the children I was with every day. Something possibly permanent, which I'd then have to treat for the rest of my life. Not remarkably serious, but permanent none the less. Dozens and dozens of beautiful children climbing all over me every day, I never regretted a moment, but... it is true that we do not know all that the children carry. I began to accept the "worst" and understand it for what it was. "It could come and go," the doctor said. I called my family just to let them know about the situation and my sister's words... I will never forget...

"If this is the least of what those kids go through everyday, then it's good!" she said. I smiled. Could my family be any more amazing? She couldn't have been more right. Those wounds were a blessing! A beautiful reminder of how LUCKY I am to have what I have in this country. I can have the means to take care of myself, or treat myself, while these children are not able to do so -- if I have the LEAST of what they have every day, then I am BLESSED. I am LUCKY. It is a BLESSING. When challenges occur, we need to step back and understand them for what good they are - and when you can't see the good, you must put it in retrospect - you will find it, it's there, I promise - not a new concept, I realize - but it's true, we sometimes need a reminder.

After seeing several doctors, I learned what it really was. Shingles. "Shingles?" I thought. "How on earth did I get shingles?" It is most common in elderly people. "It was likely brought on from the stress of what you experienced, yes?" the doctor suggested. Ding ding ding. Ohh... yeahh... mental wounds. Forgot about that one. And it hit me how truly challenging the experience was. You put your life in danger. Literally. You risk your life. You see death, destruction, pain and that... well, it's hard. I suppose my body took it more than my mind was willing to. Mental scars and wounds... they, too, are a blessing; a wonderful blessing. They remind us that we're human, but we also live through them, don't we? And for that, we are strong.

It would have been easy to throw a pity party, "I travelled oh so far to help others and I get this?" Wah. Wah. It's easy to whine. It's easy to complain. It's easy to point out the bad and beg for mercy.

How about stepping back and saying, "This is all that happened? I am blessed! I. am. blessed."

We must challenge ourselves not to take the easy road; but to take the one set in gratitude.

We often ask God for so much. "Please let us win the game; please help this show to go well; please let me pass this test..." but, why can't we thank Him afterward? Thank you for the loss, so now I can understand the win. Thank you for the worst so that I may grow stronger. In gratitude lies so much. strength. and. compassion.

For my family, my friends, those children... I feel thankful every day, for all I have, and all I don't. Those children; so many, so wounded, but strong and happy. Grateful. We must understand how much we do have and be thankful for it. Life is a blessing. Our challenges, our struggles are a gift. And sometimes, what we think are struggles, really aren't after all. Step back and see how much you have. ;) Our greatest challenges, we can learn to overcome and use in a fruitful way to better life for one another.

What wounds are you grateful for?

Thank you for being here. I'll be back with more on the Maasai soon. I promise.

God bless and have a great holiday!

Diving In... Again

2010-11-17T11:33:00.002-06:00

Photo credit: Top10List.org
A quick update to let you all know my final decisions on the next journey!

This holiday season, I'm traveling to the slums of Nairobi, Kenya to work on HIV/AIDS preventative care and treatment. I will also be returning to Tanzania to check on our children, the progression of the school, and its current needs. I look forward to sharing this journey with you! Stay tuned - become a follower on the blog - reach out! Please pray for the cause - and let's work together.

Every day is a gift. More to come soon.

Gift of the Maasai

2010-10-27T00:03:00.004-05:00

Everything we need in life, we already have. Within us. That's what I think, anyway. During my time in Tanzania, I was blessed to be taken to the village of the Maasai people. They are, without a doubt, some of the most beautiful, welcoming, open-minded and wonderfully spiritual people I have ever met. Tall, slender, delicate.... yet strong and athletic. But, if you ask me, it's their hearts which are most beautiful. Within just minutes of my arrival, the children rushed over to take my hands and help me unpack. They stood there as we built our tent, ready to help and offer their expertise -- I needed it -- they are incredibly resourceful. Imagine if we were all willing to welcome one another in this kind of way. We're this way as children. Open to whatever lies ahead until we're told not to be. It's funny how much more we can gain and give the world when we open ourselves to all that surrounds us. Their ability to make use of the earth further ignites my passion to get back to basics. The love this tribe showed did not stem from a desire to gain my help nor aid, but rather from a pure form of care and intrigue in my culture; and I in theirs.

(I love the boy on the right ;) "Don't you mess with her!") These people love, in the truest sense of the word. They love you just for being. No matter who you are. They accept you, unconditionally, no matter how "different" one may be - the way a parent inherently loves a child - and it inspires me that these children have that inherent ability toward us. There is no love nor friendship more beautiful, more fulfilling, than one that is honest, seeking nothing in return. This young woman was remarkably beautiful. One thing I long to delve deeper into upon my return -- a relationship with and understanding of the women. They are phenomenal, and I get the sense, know not how beautiful they are. Often quiet and reserved, yet a good man offers them the respect they so greatly deserve. And they marry so young! An entire life together in a secluded village. And they are happy. And they are peaceful. While we're seeking faster cars, bigger meals, better phones - they're living in peace... with all of it stripped away. Want more? ;) Choose less. I love and admire them. A good friend, guide, and volunteer. And then... The sun went down...And you cannot see a THING!
Somehow, I managed to run into this tiny tree. And give this kid major cooties. He did not take well to them. ;)Flashing cameras to find each other.And then, they built a fire for the meal.And treated me like family...It's amazing to sit with a culture so different from your own, and feel so close, so accepted and loved. I cherish and appreciate that more than I can convey. From the Maasai, I've learned, first and foremost, to appreciate and respect the earth around me. Second, not only to have an open mind, but a more welcoming heart. To be willing to love someone as one of your own, even when you have no reason to. What I learned and try to apply to my every day life? Appreciate everything around you, be aware of it and use it to the fullest. You don't have to be in the midst of a beautiful secluded village to do so. You can be in a city, a suburb, a crowded room, an empty room, at work.. Repetez s'il vous plait? At work? Yes. Please. SEE, HEAR, FEEL what's around you. Be open and understand your blessings and what you have to offer them. In a society that promotes staying "connected" by having your email in your palm at all moments while texting and chatting and talking on the phone AND this AND that and.... ;) Sit alone in a quiet peace with another being . See them, really see them... hear them, watch, and appreciate... feel a REAL connection... ;) I promise, you will not regret it. Meal preparations. And then...they danced -- Incredible.Yep, me too...
VOLUME UP! Hear what I heard. The way they use their voices is extraordinary. (Yes, that scream is them).
Thank you for being here!
Next up: More on the Maasai culture, family, and the burn. Take risks, be open, and never stop giving!

Thank you and God bless. ;) I'll be back!

Britni Tozzi

Sneak Peek

2010-08-18T12:55:00.018-05:00

I was ritualistically burned by the Maasai.....

Absolutely incredible. You won't want to miss.

Peace on Earth | Piece of Earth

2010-06-27T20:54:00.085-05:00

The first person I met stepping onto the property of my home in Tanzania was the beloved, Kaka, or brother, as they say, in Kiswahili. His real name is Nassary, but it was only natural for us to call him brother seeing as he is the kindest, friendliest and most loving man I have ever met in my entire life. Even as I think of him now, I am filled with comfort, joy and hope. Kaka was the security guard at the home and stayed up every night ensuring the volunteers' safety in the area (while also cracking jokes, handing out hugs that'll knock the air out of you, and giving free lessons in Kiswahili).

Kaka cared for each volunteer so personally; so specifically; and genuinely sought to make each person understand their importance and worth in this world -- as if they were a part of his own family -- so it was nothing other than pure joy for me to learn more about he and his.

"Do you have children, Kaka?" I asked him one night. "Yes," he replied. "FOUR! You must come see them, and my wife! Come to our home Breeteen!" Yes, Briteen... for some reason the locals had a hard time saying Britni. No matter. For all the love he showed me, he can call me whatever he wants.

Kaka cared for me on several trying occasions when very real and serious challenges ensued ... I could not have felt more grateful for his love, presence and protection.

And so I went to his home the day before I left Tanzania. As he gives an open invite to every volunteer, I had heard stories about the limited size of his home, but did not fully understand it until I went myself. Kaka and I met by the school where I was teaching and he led me hand in hand through the winding slums to his home. "Karibu!" -- "Welcome!" he said with open arms.

I entered into a dark, single room. A single room with a mattress propped up against another, one table, one chair and a couch. The furniture was so pushed together, I could not make my way around to sit down. My legs hardly fit. "Do you all live here?" I asked Kaka. "Yes, Briteen." he replied.
All six family members living in one room. He and his wife sleep on one mattress with one of the children, and the other three children together on the other mattress. Cut up sheets dangled from the ceiling attempting to segregate the space. "Have some rice." Kaka said. His youngest sat on my lap and from the way they guzzled down their food, I could see this rice was an unusual treat for my purposes.

"Your home is lovely," I told Kaka. And I meant it. The amount of love and peace amongst those six in that one room was more beautiful to me than anything I'd seen before, although I could see it was a true struggle for them.

As Kaka gave me their one soda, I handed the oldest boy money and asked him to go get soda for the rest. "You know, Briteen," Kaka began, "...thank you so much for coming. You see my family now and how we live. You can help us if you want, but you do not have to. There is no pressure. We invite you because we are thankful you come to Tanzania."

My heart ached in a way I simply cannot explain. I understood why God placed me there and what a blessing it was to see this man offer so much love and seek nothing in return. Kaka has invited volunteer after volunteer after volunteer into his home and never expected anything from them. Rather, he wanted them to feel loved, as simple as that, to understand true friendship and warmth; a genuine desire to enjoy and appreciate one another.

And as we finished our bowls of rice, one child leaving a leftover for the next, I asked to take their photo. "Kaka, how can I help you?" I asked.

"We need land." he explained. If they could purchase a piece of land, then he could begin to build a home for them. "Alright, Kaka, we will help. But, please be patient," I said. "Let me go home and find others to help, too. Okay?"
And the others...? Yes, they did help ;)

After finding wonderful sponsors to feed the school children, purchasing Kaka's land was a huge goal that's been in the works for months. While purchasing the land there is certainly cheaper than purchasing land in the U.S., it was no small price for just a few to take on... But, we did it! With the help of some truly open-minded, amazing contributors, we purchased the land for this family of SIX to build the home they much need and deserve! We have changed their lives forever. Because of you, these children can grow in a more comfortable, sustainable, cleaner and healthier environment. Thank you:

Gino Pennacchio
Dave Theriault
Natalie Kajmowicz
Kevin Brennan
Joey Pennacchio
Leah Haggar
Chris Pantanella
Teeter Sperber
Fiore Pennacchio Jr.
Holly Blazar
Morgan Daniloff
Mark Tozzi
Paula Stewart Chess
Tara Tozzi
Binaifer and Navroz Dabu
Behzad Dabu
Mary Decker

In the photo above, Kaka holds a cardboard home in his hands. The carpenter who made the desks for the classroom gave me that home as a gift for giving him business. Because I could not check it on the plane, I saw fit to give it to Kaka. He hopes to build the home after that model.

"My family and me, we pray every day for your friends and family, and for your job," he said with tears as we confirmed he had received the money. My job, I think to myself, could easily be seen as making little here in the U.S. and yet it is everything to this man and his family. How silly we sometimes are to not appreciate every single thing we have. Our jobs, our families, our lives are a blessing. Kaka found a piece of land he'd wanted months ago and waited patiently til we got enough donations together. "Now that you have your land, how will you begin building your home, Kaka?"

"One room at a time," he said. "I will start with one. And then I will wait until I can build another. And then I will build another and we will have a strong home! We will work together," he said with excitement.

;) Yeah... we'll start with one. That's how I felt with you contributors as it stretched from family to friends to strangers I've never met before. THAT is what this is all about. Thank you all for inspiring me to no end. You are helping to prove first-hand that we can make a difference because we are.

A very, very special thank you to my best friend, Gino Pennacchio, for being my partner on this project. Aside from contributing greatly himself, Gino was responsible for raising more than half the funds for this land. I could not have done this without you, G. Thank you for your endless support, for always being first to offer help, for reminding me every day how much this work means, for listening, for teaching me the value of friendship and helping me to conquer what could sometimes seem impossible. ;) You are a true blessing in the world. You've supported this for years, taken part in it, challenged me, inspired me, and I'm thankful for you every single day. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for changing my life and theirs.

Thank you all for being here! One room at a time. One home at a time. Here we go. We've only just begun.

More to come...

Britni Tozzi

1 AM Chicago

2010-06-11T00:54:00.016-05:00

It's 1 AM as I'm writing this and I just might be insane, but I don't think so. Was getting my things together ready to head to bed while on the phone tonight and I noticed a man on the street. Homeless, sleeping on the sidewalk across from my building. I observed him for a moment. Hidden beneath his coat, a black trash bag sitting next to him. It's not completely rare to see homeless in the city of Chicago, but I just felt drawn to get my butt out of the apartment and over there to give him something. My full size bed is directly parallel to the concrete he sleeps on. I noticed people turn their head at him while walking and just pass on. Has that passerby been me before? Yup. But... in my own words from my own last posting, when's enough enough? If we feel an inclination for aid, why hold ourselves back? Move.

I grabbed some food in my cupboards, bagged 'em up, took a couple bills and headed out to him. He was surely passed out in a deep sleep. Black bags probably holding liquor bottles. Ok. I left the food next to his bag and the money in a cup next to his head. His head -- soft black curls rested on the filthy concrete. Next option. Go back inside or learn about where he might be able to sleep at night. I'm tired, but whatever. Walk over to the YMCA around the corner. Probably a drag for some people to live by... for me it's an honor on this night. Go in to the building where "so many drunks and drug dealers live".... well, we've more to learn and less to judge. I'm almost certain it's regular housing residents rent annually... yes, it is, the kind woman informs me. "Can you give me info. on shelters please?" She can't, but the residents do. Walk outside where a few of them are smoking. They're kind. They help. "There's a shelter on Roosevelt. CCIL. Give it a shot."

Walk home. Google. CCIL. call. "How would it work to bring someone in?" Well... they can't come in one night, especially this late. They must go to 10 S. Kedzie, Apartment and Unit Services, ask for a Referral Letter for CCIL. Questions will be asked. Answers will be given. Truths will be told and probably lies as well. If on parole or probation, they are likely to be taken in right away. Then, they can hopefully have a room that following night. If one has a larger drug/alcohol problem, they may be more likely to be taken in because they need more help. Surprising? Interesting. Good. I'm glad to have learned. "You with a Church?" Nope. "Just doing this?" Yup. CCIL - 2750 W. Roosevelt Rd. -- Roosevelt and California. Go with a referral letter.

I'm informed that CCIL has a school, classes, they can find them employment, they can live there, save money while working, maybe qualify for section 8 housing.

They have to want to help themselves? Yes. We can also lend a hand of guidance and kindness as well? Yes. It's possible that one night of help could remain as only one night of help? Yes. Still worth it? Yes.

Homeless shelters where they can be taken in right away? They must arrive before 7:00 PM and must most likely leave at 5:00 AM.

Could not give him a room tonight. Sorry, God. And thank you, God, for allowing me to learn more.

Let's learn more. Thanks for being here. CCIL: http://www.ccilworks.org/

Forgive my lack of eloquence - 1 AM. We've much to learn and more to give. More on Africa soon. God bless and thank you!

Find a shelter here: Shelters in Chicago

Doing What We Say

2010-05-20T22:47:00.006-05:00

It's not always easy to do what we say we want to do; what we're going to do. Sometimes we get scared, lazy, overwhelmed, or we assume someone else will take care of it, but I ask you: When is enough enough?..... Enough is enough right now. It's time to celebrate all that we accomplished in Africa. Yes, we, because I thought of you all every step of the way. Before I made my journey, I was so fortunate to receive contributions from some truly wonderful, brave and supportive people. So the question remains, where did it all go???

I waited until my last few days in Tanzania to use the contributions because I felt it important to fully experience the struggles at the schools throughout the month and as difficult as it was, I needed to prioritize how our money could best be put to use. Fair time with the children, as well as hearing the headmaster's concerns before making any decisions, was critical. Not only is my own heart drenched with gratitude to you contributors, but if you could see these children's faces... you'd know in the deepest reaches of your soul how worthwhile and important you are. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking risks with me, for opening your mind and your heart, and for actively making a difference. Here's how the contributions were spent:

Six HUNDRED writing books for the children

One HUNDRED reading books (different levels for different ages)
Pencils, Pens, Pencil Sharpeners, ERASERS, Rulers
Zuma and I hand picked the boards of wood and had 20 DESKS built for a classroom which previously housed broken, wiggling benches

And with your contributions....we fed two entire school centers for three months. I was able to begin a Porridge Program for the children which I am grateful to share is still running beautifully. Thanks to you. (Zuma and I hired a cook, purchased stoves, pots, cups, utensils, etc.) Though you may not have been there with me, I thought of the contributors, and all who've shown interest, every. single. day. Your graciousness has touched the hearts of these children more than you will ever know.

And as I've only grown more ambitious since my leave, I'm happy to share that work is STILL being done! Thank you to the recent contributors who have helped me to continue to feed these children for another three months -- that is a total of six months these children will have gotten / will be getting food... and we're not stopping there. The Porridge Program will continue on for as long as we sustain and work together and you have my word, we can and will!

The children's faces as they discovered they'd be receiving food every day.And after they stood and jumped and laughed and played... they sat together with me and prayed in thanks.. for you. They sat me down as each one rested a hand upon me and through different cultures, races, religions, we came together in gratitude to God... and gratitude to you. Thank you with everything in me.
Flour we bought and lugged through town.

Zuma (the headmaster) messaged me recently to say this:

"The children are running to school. Running because they know there is food there. Their attendance has improved. Their academic abilities have improved. The children's progress is amazing!"

He then went on to inform me of an American volunteer currently working there who will continue to update me on the success and stability of our program. Another surety that things are being run successfully in my absence. We are blessed.

I could not be more thrilled nor more appreciative for the means to create this Project. Today we ought to celebrate all the good that has been done.

Thank you for helping me to do this. This could not have been done without you. You gave me your undaunted faith and trust, and I used my own in believing that you would appreciate what was done. Thank you for allowing me to make difficult decisions, and for giving me the honor of passing on the gifts which you have given. I have no words. I pray that you can see here what one life can do. Yours. It really, truly does matter how we feel and what we desire to do in this world. This journey stemmed from an interest I felt years ago and now look where we are... thanks to you... thanks to God. Nothing is impossible. Thank you for changing these children's lives and MOST importantly, creating a foundation for building a better future. Stop saying if and when and tomorrow and someday... start saying NOW... start doing NOW. Your potential for aid in this world is immeasurable.

Baraka

2010-04-25T20:43:00.094-05:00

Spiritual wisdom; a blessing; a "breath of life"; luck -- Baraka -- my student. I scanned the class of excited eyes each day when I came in and saw Baraka always looking down... empty. I knew he was smart; I could see this as I taught, but he always seemed terrified to speak; not in a shy way; he was just empty with the look of an old man who'd experienced Lord knows what at home. "Any thoughts on Baraka?" I asked Zuma. "Perhaps he is sick," he said. HIV, I thought. I can't even go there; he's only 5. But Zuma had suspicions of the mother's illness and knew Baraka's father was positive. It is very possible a child can extract HIV living in those kinds of conditions with parents who are infected, Zuma explained. Many children are ill. "Does he have siblings?" I asked Zuma. "A little brother."

..."Can we get them tested?" I asked Zuma.

"This means we will have to go into the child's home. We will have to ask the mother." Not because we had to have her permission, oddly enough, but because he thought it'd be worse if she found out through others that we took him to the hospital without her knowledge.

"Are you sure you want to do this?" he asked. Of course. "Let's test the mother as well if she's willing."

Zuma and I woke early on a Saturday, his day off from school, to take Mary, Baraka's mother, he and his little brother to a clinic (if I can even call it that). I don't know what the situation is with his father. I never met him nor even saw him, but had suspicions he was not around much and also not well; physically or mentally.

Mary was quiet yet I could see an excitement in her eyes to have some attention and treatment, which I'm sure she so desperately needed. She crawled out of her one room dirt filled home and wrapped her little one over her back in a muddy ripped up cloth. Baraka trailed closely behind her. He did not know where we were going and we chose to keep it that way. I played music for him trying to keep his focus and attention as we walked for miles. Still, he never laughed nor cracked a smile.

Zuma escorted us to a clinic in Arusha and asked that I wait outside with the family as he bargained with a doctor to let us get tested. It's strange; Zuma and the doctor spoke Swahili too quickly for me to understand, yet, I got the sense that even the doctor didn't really want to know the outcome of their testing. But the family was so brave. I plopped Baraka on my lap as his mother and baby brother were tested and he showed no single sign of fear. "He will only fear if he sees your fear; and there is no fear in you," Zuma said with encouragement. Baraka stepped forward, took the needle to his finger and sat right back down like nothing. ;) That's my boy. Fascinating that the doctor wore no gloves as this whole thing took place in a dirty old office.

We waited ten minutes for results as I tried to distract Mary's thoughts with pictures of my own family. Who am I kidding? My beautiful siblings could distract anyone ;) I thought of them often.

The doctor called us in and bargained for more money. Oh, smart one he is, who could turn away now that the tests had already been done? I handed him more shillings as we walked down a dark dusty hall. We entered a crammed little room and were all lined up against one wall as there was no space.

... "The baby is"

God, please be with us. I took a deep breath.

"Negative."

Release.

... "The boy..."

I gave Mary reassuring eyes though I had no clue at all.

"Negative."

Thank you, God.

"She is positive," he said with an indifferent voice toward Mary.

...."Okay," I said with strength and acceptance, though I've no idea why. Mary nodded as if she knew all along, yet still... that sense of pleasure in being attended to was still in her eyes. "Okay, what can we do?" I asked. "What are her options?"

"She can go to another clinic and take medications," he explained. Zuma turned to me and explained that this is, indeed, possible if she chooses to try, yet it is also possible that the supplies are not there. And she can prolong her life by the foods she eats. "Find fruit, Madame," he said to her. I watched Mary closely. It seemed as though it was the first time she was open to admitting her illness and wanting to seek help for it. Thank you, God, for that! Many are eager to ignore their illness because it is seen as a stigma. They don't want to be viewed poorly by others, but if they don't address it, they move at all costs to avoid it and that is a big problem.

Mary and the doctor spoke briefly in Swahili as we gathered our things. Though we could not fluidly communicate, I walked close to her as we headed back home. "Asante sana." "Thank you," she said with peaceful eyes.

It's funny how sometimes you need no words at all.

With one single look, I knew what was in her heart. She understood her illness for the first time, and knew the difficulties she would continue to face, yet I knew at that moment, she saw it as an opportunity for us to find her boys some help and assistance. Selflessness.

They need education. Will it be difficult for Mary to take care of herself and there in turn the children? Yes. Yes, it will. I've no interest here in dolling up reality. But, educating the children; educating families on preventative care is critical and yes, YES, you better believe I think it will. make. a. difference. It matters. And the more of us that help educate them, the better. I spent enough time with the children there to know that they WANT to better their lives and WILL if they understand how to do so.

We can contribute to medications. We can educate. And call me crazy, but we can give love and kindness to those who just might not last another day. Pointless? No. Isn't it possible that an accident could happen to any one of us any time, any day? An illness? So wouldn't we want the best of our lives? Don't we want that from others? Why shouldn't we give that? Why shouldn't we give love and kindness to someone who is "hopeless"? In fact, they're not hopeless at all. Mary's heart is strong and beautiful. We must learn to see one another as our own; our own friends; our own family; our own struggles.

Appreciate your life, please. Love your body. Love your family. It's not hopeless for them, for us, and it never will be as long as we seek betterment. I am aware of the situation there and am very realistic, and I know, in my gut, there is still hope and there are ways to progress. We have to work together. And I'll be the first to admit, it's another topic I need to know more about, but I will certainly dive deeper upon my next return.

As for Baraka ;) Our lucky one? A child who still maintains a "breath of life" - if you're interested in sponsoring him - please contact me: britni.tozzi@gmail.com

His emptiness? I get it now. It's the responsibility of being five years old and being "the man of the house" taking care of his mother and younger brother.

I walked home with him one day, many miles. He does this alone every day. Watch the little baby in front running with no shoes - he followed us forever and no one even noticed or cared.

Chatting with the kids:

Let us not complain as much as we do. Let us step back from the quick frustrations we see in life and realize the number of miracles we all have. Why is the term miracle often deemed as something so fantastical? Why can't it be something as simple as our daily health? Is that not a miracle? And the ability to wake each morning? To have family, friends, or the OPPORTUNITY for those? They are, indeed, miracles and they are everywhere. Open your eyes. ;)

A VERY special thank you to the following people who have recently so graciously contributed to feeding the children at CHETI. You are changing their lives EVERY DAY.

We are feeding TWO entire school centers for the next THREE months. Thank you:

David Choma
Rich Lucas
Hitesh Patel
Morgan Daniloff
Morgan Mackovjak
Derek Jordan
Kathy Tozzi
Tara Tozzi
Holly Blazar

Next post - uplifting, I promise ;) Funny classroom shenanigans! Thank you for being here! God bless and check back soon! SO much more to come. GREAT things are happening!
Zuma's son, Ryan. Looks like someone has a wet bottom?? ;)

"Vulnerable Children" Part I

2010-03-30T20:58:00.029-05:00

I noticed my first day at CHETI, the school of my placement, a board entitled "Vulnerable Children" at the C4 center. "What is this?" I asked Zuma, the head of our school. I mean it when I say that every child at Cheti is vulnerable, but I suppose it's true that there are a few who just might not stand a chance if Zuma weren't there to guide them. Zuma does a remarkable job of researching the students' home life on top of EVERYTHING else he does and that is just one piece of what makes him such a hero in my eyes. "This is a list of children who I feel need my extra attention and support," he says. What he really means is, these are children he tries to support all by himself on top of having his own children and family! Blows my mind. I also commend Zuma on his research of students' home life because as he seeks help for them, he makes sure that that the troubling stories are indeed true. For example, there were several days we walked from school to the child's home to speak to the guardian, or neighbors if the child had no guardian, to find out what was really going on. Yes, it's true, sometimes people will lie to get some assistance, but this is one reason I value Zuma so much - his honesty in telling me that. Wouldn't you know... each troubling story we heard was, indeed, true as we did our research into each child's home. It's heartbreaking, yet wonderful in the fact that the reality can be let out so these kids can get some help. To think of it from the other end though, I know there are SO many stories that aren't told and that MOST of these children are probably just as vulnerable. Eh... it's an aching in my heart and my mind, but we'll have to help here one step at a time.

Zuma went through some of the stories of what makes these children so vulnerable with me and though I tried to be attentive, I couldn't hold back the tears. I think I cried every day in Africa, sometimes from heartbreak, and sometimes from sheer euphoria and gratitude for what was in front of me.

Here is just ONE interview done with Zuma. Almost every day someone will come in begging for his help. (The mother has died, the father has left them, the grandmother is old and ill and cannot look after them anymore. They cannot afford education or food. But they deserve what any child deserves in life!). Take a look.

Zuma agreed to fund their education, but as you saw from just ONE of his lists above, he cannot do this for very long. They need a sponsor to continue schooling. You can help me feed them as I will be making a payment soon, or help fund their education.

And there's more. This is Doreen. Doreen is, I'd like to say, about 4 or 5 years old, maybe? She attended Cheti in prior years and I know this because another volunteer who had been there for several months recognized her when we were walking through the slum one day. "Doreen! Why aren't you at school??" she asked her. This volunteer expressed her upset to Zuma and not seeing Doreen in school anymore. "Let's get to her home," Zuma said.

The next day we walked through stony paths, smelling of burning corn until we reached a weak tin door. "Allo?" Zuma said. We walked in and there was little Doreen -- all smiles to see that her previous teacher had come for her. Turns out this was Doreen's grandmother's home. "Where is your mother?" Zuma asked...

I will never forget this moment til the day I die. Her mother, only 25 years old, just two years older than I, came out from one corner of the two room home, and could hardly move... Doreen was no longer in school because her mother was sick.

She slowly sat down on a dusty couch as she explained that she could no longer afford to send Doreen to school. Her voice was so meak; I could see she was in great pain; each sentence was a mountain for her to climb. "What has happened?" Zuma asked her in Swahili. She began as Zuma translated for us...

Her stomach was wrapped up in a cloth because it was not. quite. closed from a "surgery" she had received. No wonder this poor young woman could not move! We then learned that Doreen's father had left them months prior, only to return to steal all of their money and leave again. In the process, he claimed that the mother had wronged him and had her put in jail. She was innocent. She is ill.

Doreen was forced to leave school. But she is SO SMART and hard working and loving and alive. "No. You shall come back to school," Zuma said. "We shall somehow pay for your education." I think of Zuma. I think of Doreen. I think of her mother. And I know that anything in life is possible, especially when we come together. We have so much to be thankful for.

Though we weren't sure at that moment how she would be taken care of, it turns out two volunteers in their early 20's, from opposite ends of the earth, came together and are now funding her education for the next several years. THAT is what it's all about. THAT is going to change her future FOREVER. Her education will give her the proper chance at life which she deserves! She can strive for a respectable job and understanding of how much capability she has in her country, in the world!

But what of her mother? ... it is another story that haunts me often. I don't know how she is anymore... I wish I did and pray for her often. How can it be that she is only 25 and can already be seen as a "too late" situation? I asked her if there was anything we could give her aside from Doreen. "Fruit," she said with a half smile. Several volunteers brought her fruit in the days to follow.

There are MANY others who need assistance. I am sending a payment for food to these schools by April 20. Would you like to put in a small donation? The donations go directly from me to Zuma so I know it is done right.

Could this little one be any more beautiful?

Thank you for being here and God bless. YOU can change a life FOREVER just by slightly altering your own! ;) Would you like to help?

Contact me if you'd like to make a donation:

britni.tozzi@gmail.com

Check back soon!

Welcome to Cheti

2010-03-20T21:00:00.111-05:00

A day or two after my arrival in Africa, I learned I would be placed at a school outside the town of Arusha. CHETI, it is called. "CHETI. What does it mean?" I thought, and "How old are the children?" I couldn't WAIT to get started with the little buggers, but I knew it was important to prepare for their age and level of understanding. "They mainly range from 3-7," I was told. I smiled with excitement and anticipation inside, not just because I love children, but also because I knew this would be a challenge - for them and for me - for they would not know as much English as some of the other locals. I frantically tried to learn as much Swahili as possible and as mentioned before, I had wonderfully encouraging people eager to help.
I rose the next morning, ready to be picked up at home by the head of the school. Zuma, is his name. One of the most remarkable people I've ever met. Even as I say his name now, I feel empowered and strengthened. The doors opened and there was Zuma... beaming with one of the most infectious, enlightening smiles I have ever seen. He apologized for not having proper English (his English is excellent) and I responded by telling him he can't apologize again until I use proper Swahili! "No, no! I want to know better English. I need to know better English," he said as he grabbed hold of my arm and hand, leading me through town to the dala dalas. In America, we have a hard enough time bumping shoulders with someone or getting too far into their "personal space". Now, I had a total stranger, a beautiful man grabbing hold of my hand and anxiously pulling me through town. I loved every moment of it. It was a comforting invasion. Contradicting? Maybe. But something I could argue we all desperately need.

"There are 4 centers to CHETI," he explained. "I shall take you to all."

"What does CHETI stand for?" I asked. "CHETI." He smiled. "Children Health Education Team Inspiration."

I couldn't think of five better reasons for having come there.

Two dala dalas later and a long walk down a dirty, muddy road, I turned the corner through a rusty painted gate and heard the most beautiful voices I've ever known. The children...

"Come! We cannot waste a minute," said Zuma. He asked me to hop onto the back of his motorbike so he could take me out to the farthest CHETI center... and now I know why... it is far. The centers of CHETI are called C1, C2, C3 and C4. "We shall go to C4," he explained.

Within one hour of meeting my "Principal," I had held his hands, stuck my face in his armpit on the dala dala and now put my arms around him on the back of his motorbike. Unusual? No, not in Africa. ;) Honestly... it is beautiful. (And don't get the wrong idea here, there were no inappropriate intentions, it is the sincere way of life).

We drove a bumpy ride through muddy trails and rocky hills until we reached C4.

Where. Do. These. Kids. Come. From. ... that was all I could think to myself.
The school is in the middle of nowhere. Yes... this is school...And I walked into a classroom to find this...

A child was teaching the class. They could not yet find a teacher. Still, the children straggle along to school. They want to learn. They have such hope and potential, yet there is a lack of resources, supplies; there is a lack of trustworthy and determined teachers. Why? ... I will explain in posts to come.
Their dirt filled shoes...

They don't have lunch...If they break for lunch, they go home and most likely don't come back. If they do come back, it is likely that they didn't eat when home. Why? They have no food there...

Their "blackboards"... Pieces of wood that can't really be erased OR boards of wood which serve as the "walls" of their classroom.

Their supplies? A single pencil they take from a bucket. They are ALWAYS broken; NEVER sharpened. The children spend half the class begging to have them sharpened. There are no erasers. Perhaps one or two per class. No books. Each child has ONE booklet of blank paper. When they run out, that's it. They must sit and watch for the next few weeks or months until they get another... so frustrating. Although some centers have a few more supplies, it is pretty similar within C1 through C4. The biggest frustration is the lack of food...

If they do not eat, they have no energy. If they have no energy, they cannot retain anything. But they want to learn. Why must we always complain when we have so much. They are so malnourished...

This time around, words just won't suffice for me. I'm praying these images can help you see. I'd spent the first weekend with so many excited children in the streets, running; laughing; playing. But when I came to C4... I genuinely had to work to get these kids to smile; resorting to tickling; tossing them; everything I could think of. These children are just plain hungry. I look at them and see an old soul when I ought to be seeing a vibrant, vivacious child... but they've experienced more than I'll ever know... We are blessed with bountiful opportunities. They need us. I'm supporting these children, but I cannot do it on my own. A few dollars a day, a week, a month can help me to feed them for months. A little can go such a long way! Can you please help?

I'll show you how. Contact me: britni.tozzi@gmail.com

Thank you for being here... You are a blessing. Never underestimate what you are capable of doing. More to come soon.

There Will Be Blood

2010-03-04T00:38:00.043-06:00

Thank you for being here... My apologies for a delay in posting. I had some slight health issues to attend to this past week (possibly related to Africa) but I'm okay! I'm thrilled to be here, thankful for life and will share any helpful news for you on the topic once I understand the details myself. However, I am here ;) you are here - let's get started!

The few days before I began working at my placement in Arusha, I took some time to explore the town and grow comfortable with finding my way around. This was a wonderful opportunity to understand the culture and lifestyle as well as the Tanzanian law and how things are run. It's difficult to find a proper formality to what the laws are because we have to understand what is more socially acceptable for them and also the open awareness of corruption. Please understand that I chose Tanzania for this first mission because it has a history of being peaceful and I do believe it is, but as with many African countries, there is, indeed, corruption.
I enjoyed a nice lunch in town one day with another volunteer and we decided to walk home, but in the process of doing so, a dala dala backed straight into us. (If you don't know what a dala dala is, please refer to my last post). The traffic in Arusha is horrendous! There are no lane dividers painted on the road and if there are they are very hard to see; no one pays any attention to them. There are cars, buses, bicycles, motorbikes, dogs, goats, people. It is acceptable to pass the person in front of you for whatever reason they deem necessary, so you almost always see a car/bus coming at you head on before it scarcely squeezes its way back into traffic; Matrix style; you think I'm kidding, eh? The volunteers always said that out of all the ways for one of us to go in Africa, it'd probably be from getting hit in traffic. This dala dala driver either did not pay attention or simply did not care who was behind him and hit the gas in reverse, too hard. I jumped out of the way, as did my friend and a couple other locals. He drove off into the intersection to go about his way, laughing. We stood there in shock and I realized that a police officer standing nearby had seen it all.

Several people started shouting and complaining and I realized this would not go unsettled. The tall, robust officer dressed in his crisp white uniform and hat slowly made his way over to that dala dala; I could see the tension in his body like a cat ready to pounce. In fact, I could feel it. "Okay. How do they deal with this here?" I thought. "Warning; ticket?" He banged on the window as the driver realized he'd been caught. After an eyeing down like I have never seen before, the officer yanked, and I mean yanked the driver out of that vehicle. He pulled him into the center of the intersection and after very few words exchanged in Swahili, he beat him. I've never seen anything like it. Slapping and punching him in the head. The driver was down on his knees begging the officer to stop.

"Mzungu!" said the officer pointing over to us. Mzungu means "white person" and you will hear this about fifty times a day walking down the street (it is not derogatory, rather, it's friendly). "You almost hit them!" he shouted in Swahili. Then the officer motioned for me and the other locals to come over and join the scolding.

"Acha. Acha. Hapana, hapana asante" I told the officer (Stop. Stop. No, no, thank you). I wanted no part of it. But that is how things are dealt with there - the physical aggression is seen as much more acceptable and warranted. And so I understood it when I would later hear the teachers at school telling the children they will beat them if they misbehave. Those children see instances like that of the officer every day, often in their homes, and so they know it means business.

The next day, my final day before beginning at placement, a couple of volunteers and I rented motorbikes to travel to the town of Moshi ("Smoke" in Swahili).
The ride was, in a word, beautiful. The land is so vast and open; green hills stretching for miles, baobab trees, mountains, goats, children herding animals, women walking along the side of the road carrying food and supplies...

Heaven on earth. And midway into our journey...

We were stopped by the police.

"Identification, please" he says. Well, I'd been instructed never to take my passport or ID out with me because if I lose it in the country, it will be very difficult to get home. No problem, the driver has got his.... Well... no, he was sure he had it, but accidentally left it back at the volunteer house. Admittedly not a smart move. "Where are you going? What's in your bags?" the officer questioned. I can't explain it, but you can just feel that they want something else from you. Money? Who knows. It's an awful feeling. "Well... now you are to be punished," he said. "I will punish you. Get off the bike."

Alright... after everything I'd seen with the dala dala driver, you can only imagine what was going through my head. I think I had about 95 talks with God in a matter of 30 seconds. I'm in a country where my own laws mean nothing and I mean it when I say that you just instinctively feel there are ulterior motives. The other volunteer kept trying to explain the situation and asked to be let go. "No" the officer said. "Well, what is the punishment?" we asked. He just stared. Realistically, the punishment was whatever he felt like and that is a terrible feeling. You feel no justice to anything.

After my 95 talks with God in 30 seconds and putting my heart back into my chest, I went back to the truth of the situation and tried to reason with myself that this should not be a big issue. "We're volunteering," I said and allowed the other to explain where he'd been volunteering for the past few months, etc. We finally saw a change in the officers eyes and he eventually let us go.

The truth is, this officer just more than likely wanted money. "They've taken money from us before," another volunteer explained, and that's where corruption comes in. After stepping away from the situation, I know he would not have physically harmed us because the fact is, they know we're there to volunteer and are also helping their economy. I do not think this is a bad man and I do believe the Tanzanian police are good in their country, but you just have to realize that it's accepted, they will take advantage of you and take your money. Granted, I'm sure things like this and that of the beating have happened here in the U.S., but I can confidently say this particular type of corruption happens all the time over there. Must be honest, maybe the most scared I've ever been.

More photos of the journey to Moshi...

A raw appreciation for one another and the earth.

This beautiful boy flagged us down on the way back. Children are always waving with excitement and hope, but I'm thankful we could stop for this child. "Pesa??" he asked (Money?). "Hapana. Pole sana" I told him (No, I'm very sorry). "Pen? Pen?!" he said in Swahili, staring into my backpack. "Yes, take this pen" I told him. "There!!" he pointed to another I didn't even know I had. "Yes, please take." I gave him whatever I had. "Book?" he asked in Swahili. "No books... pole sana." I said with regret. Again, he begged, "..books??" "No, I don't have any"... although I wish more than anything I had.

I'd never seen someone longing for something so bad... but, it would not be the first time on this trip I'd see a longing in someone's eyes so deep, so immense... the next time I saw it, I will explain for you later... It's.. it's hard. I gave him whatever I had on me at that moment and knew it would not be enough to sustain... but if it's at least a piece of life, a piece of hope, a piece of will for him... then yeah, I'll start there. We'll start there. And one may think, well where the hell does that "piece of hope" or "piece of life" get you?

I will show you... I will show you in posts to come... of real life heroes; angels on earth. Those who make every waking moment more meaningful, poignant; important. You will see... we will see... I'm with you the whole way.

Thanks for being here...

Special thanks to Gino Pennacchio.

Karibu | Welcome

2010-02-15T18:36:00.156-06:00

Where do I begin? .... I've fallen in love. With a culture, a land, a people, a way of life more challenging; more beautiful than you could ever imagine. I had experiences on this trip that forced me to contemplate every day how on earth I would ever be able to fully explain them all to you ... But, I'm going to try -- because these experiences need to be told and because without each other, we're nothing. Because your value and worth in this lifetime is greater than you will ever know and the gifts that surround you, those within you, are real and immeasurably fruitful. If I can say one thing - - please, don't waste a minute of your life. It is precious and there is much to be done.

It's funny how you can be on the verge of doing something substantially risky; unusual; out of the ordinary; possibly dangerous and somehow feel remarkably calm... because you know it's right. I'm not sure if I've ever felt more calm than I did sitting at that airport waiting for my flight to leave Chicago. I was at peace. I traveled for a total of 25 hours and did not mind a second of it. I slept most of the way, only to wake to the woman next to me who had saved all my meals as I dozed off... literally, piled them up. ;) One of the many kindnesses I would experience on this trip.

And as we finally made our way into Kiliminjaro International Airport, I'm certain I came off to the passengers as a 5 year-old who'd just downed 10 pixie sticks, but come on, it was incredible! We landed on a runway and turned right back down the same one to get off. It was a very small airport. The stairs opened up and we walked right off the plane onto the land. No walkways, no guidelines, just you and the earth. Africa. You can smell its beauty. It was 10:30 at night; I could see nothing, but the scent alone made me understand that this land was miraculous, vigorous and exhilarating. I knew this was where I was meant to be. The air is fresh in the truest sense. The plants, the animals, the earth! I made jokes about smelling elephant poop and wanting to run after it (the elephant, not the poop) because discovering the earth in this way is truly alluring; invigorating; real. Real. A word you'll hear me say many times throughout this process. As unbelievable as much of the experience was, it is, indeed, the realest I've ever known.

Upon my arrival, I quickly learned that Christmas and New Years Eve are the two most dangerous times of the year in Tanzania. It just so happened to be New Years Eve (sorry, Mom and Dad). Being a holiday, the locals know that more money is on the streets, people are drinking more and it's an excellent opportunity for pick-pocketing, robbery and crime. We drove for about an hour and a half to our home down a dark dirt road, discovering the volunteer house surrounded by giant walls. These walls are there for security and protection, which I'll admit I'm thankful for. There's a security guard on shift every night and I understood his purpose when five minutes into my arrival, there's an insane banging on the door as a volunteer is let in. He shouts, "Do NOT go out there!.... I just got robbed AND shot at!"

"Alrighty then!" I thought, "Note to self: the danger here is real." Of course, he made some admittedly silly decisions that night, but it is true -- You simply do NOT go out alone at night in this area of Tanzania (perhaps in most parts of Africa). There are no street lights off the main road, and the stone filled dirt paths are made darker by surrounding banana trees and things of the like. After living in a major city for six years, I've learned to walk from point A to point B and stay aware of my surroundings at night -- in Tanzania, absolutely not. The danger is real and people are desperate when in need.

I spent the next day touring Arusha, the town of my placement, and getting a complete crashcourse in Swahili. And let me tell you, when you are thrust into an environment, you will learn the language faster than you'd expect. Meeting remarkably beautiful people does not harm the process either.....

Arusha is on the outskirts of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru; the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The town is buzzing every day with people who are eager to sell you whatever they can make, find or grow; for you know they've got children or extended family at home in need of food.

This lovely bucket of goat heads was parked next to me as I sat down to eat in town. The women shaving them were preparing "goat head stew" and loved seeing the eye balls pop out of my head as I watched!!

We have a grill in our backyard, they just have Kili. BREATHTAKING.

To get around town in Tanzania, you either walk or take a dala dala. Keep in mind, Arusha is a town, not a village - I will show you a village later. A dala dala is a van that ought to seat about 10-12 at most, only in actuality, I'd say 22 will weasel their way in. It is bumpy, uncomfortable and full of body odor... but, I love it. People in Africa are aggressive and in each other's space, but in many ways, it is beautiful! If a woman needs to get on a dala dala and has a bag of rice and a child, she will hand the child off to the first person she sees so she can get on. No problem. They trust one another, take care of one another, and know no other way than this. They are friendly beyond anything I've seen before. Everyone is eager to say hello and how are you? "Mambo? Vipi?" they say. No headphones; no ipods; just an honest appreciation for human interaction - it's what they know best and it's what I desperately long for now. And though there is so much challenge and heartbreak, there is ambiability and love. Corruption? Absolutely. But, you discover in no time who is sincere and who is not. I'll expand on corruption in posts to come. My first dala dala ride -- forced to sit on top of a volunteer whom I'd just met.

If I may be honest, and that's what I'm here for, it is of great importance to me to start on a lighter note because... well, that's how it naturally unfolded, but also -- My life has changed now and each day is a challenge, a wonderful and productive one which I am forever thankful for, but a challenge in many ways from all I've seen. But, I'd like you to come through the journey with me. For your sake and mine, I need to unwrap this experience for you in its truest form. You will see it all and it's important that you see the fun moments as well as the heartbreaking ones. There is MUCH MORE to come. Your attention here is appreciated more than I can convey and I value your interest very much. Thank you.

Next up: understanding Tanzanian law and the ways it is enforced - you may appreciate our system more after these next few stories, but I will, of course, let you decide. Thank you for being a part of this!! More to come! God bless :)

Special thanks to Kuo-Lun Tye.

Asante Sana

2010-02-04T10:45:00.020-06:00

My Swahili words to you all...Thank you, thank you, asante sana to all who have been checking back here, checking in with me, and everything of the like. I have not forgotten about you. I have MUCH to share with you and cannot wait to do it! I returned to the States just over a week ago and have needed the time to adjust, reorganize and regather my thoughts, and give some focus to a few items I could not attend to while away. However, YOU all are of great importance to me and you have not been forgotten - I've been organizing pictures, stories, videos, processing ideas and formulating modes of action that pertain to all I've seen in Africa, so please understand that there will be much for you to see and get involved in. With the truest sincerity, all I've experienced on this trip deserves thorough focus and attention which is why, although I'm eager, I have not rushed this process. But, you will not be let down! I will be up and running here in just a few days and have faith that you will very much appreciate the beauty and the heartbreak you will see.

In a quick word of my own self reflection?

I will never be the same.

The world is more beautiful than you could ever imagine.

Look forward to sharing it all with you shortly. God bless you. Thank you and check back soon! Asante sana my rafiki mzuri.

Kwaheri

2009-12-30T12:06:00.010-06:00

That's Swahili for "Goodbye" to you all!! :) Today is the big day and I am off to the airport in just a few minutes. Chicago -- Amsterdam -- Kilimanjaro. I've showered with hunter's unscented soap, shampoo and conditioner to prevent the bugs from eating me alive when I step off that plane and no... I am not hunting... if the animals weren't inclined to take a bite out of my face, I'd hug every single one of 'em ;) I am ecstatic and shockingly at ease. Perhaps it is because my family has been so supportive and so have you! I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your kind words, your prayers and your contributions -- they are going to mean SO MUCH to these people. Truly. I will do my best to update while I am there, but if I am unable, then I will, of course, share EVERYTHING with you upon my return. And I promise to represent our country with much love, kindness, compassion and intelligence! Together, we are making a difference. Thank you for being a part of this -- your time and attention are very important to me and very much appreciated. God bless. Have a safe and happy new year!! 2010!!! I'll arrive in Tanzania just in time to welcome the new year. Of course, it will be 8 hours ahead for you Chicagoans, 9 for you Clevelanders (everyone else, you do the math ;) I've got plenty of cameras, journals, etc. so there will be much to share and learn. In the meantime, you can enjoy a photo I took over Christmas of the most handsome cat around.

Wait... not without an over the shoulder shot

Okay... we're set. Thank you all so much and please stay tuned, stay attentive to the current events and be active and aware! God bless!

Coming Together

2009-12-14T23:22:00.089-06:00

It's all finally coming together and I am just 15 days away from leaving. FIFTEEN? It has come so fast and I can hardly wait, but there is still SO much to be done. However, I must admit, it is certainly "coming together" in more ways than one. The vaccinations are done, my passport is set, multiple visas have been granted and returned, but what is "coming together" now is what means the most to me.

People are coming together.

I wrote a letter to family, friends and co-workers kindly seeking donations for the school supplies for the children in Tanzania; also for the every day supplies and funds toward medicine for families... the response I received has blown. me. away. I cannot express my gratitude for all of you who contributed to make a difference for those in need. I cannot express the honor I feel to be the one to pass on the gifts which YOU have given. Thank you so much for having faith in me and this cause, and more importantly, thank you for furthering my own faith that there are wonderful people everywhere and that we are capable of such great things when we put forth this kind of compassion. I've seen immense beauty in the support of friends and family, and my heart is racing with the joy of understanding the critical importance of what we are about to hand off to those in need. Thank you. Together we are changing lives and I cannot WAIT to show you what we've done. Thank you for being a part of this.

I've been ambitiously contacting the volunteer staff and past volunteers to get a better understanding of what exactly is needed there and how best to pass it on. "I imagine only 50% of supplies sent from out of the country will actually reach their intended destination," I've been told. HALF? These people need us more than ever. Due to issues of corruption, this statistic is likely to be true. Corruption can be a real problem. "There are no more volunteers placed at the orphanage I was working at because of corruption issues with the owner," a past volunteer explained to me. And I've been told frustrating stories of airport security in other countries holding supplies hostage until you hand over cash. Nice. The smartest, safest and most beneficial plan is for me, personally, to purchase the needed supplies upon my arrival. This way I can and will ensure they are receiving them directly. I will most likely be required to take several trips from cities to rural areas, but it is absolutely worth it and, most importantly, it will help their local economy. In some areas, the official accepted curriculum is the British curriculum so it will make sense for me to track down the appropriate materials once I'm there. Of course, I will take over as many basic supplies as I can (pens, pencils, erasers, pencil sharpeners - they sharpen their pencils with razors). The materials are also less expensive there, hence, with the donations I've received, I will be able to purchase even more of what is so desperately needed. Fantastic!

Trying to think of ways to strap my bookshelf to my back and take it over for 'em. Any thoughts? No? Not a comfy prop for the jungle? ;)

As I learn more each day, I can't help but to feel drenched in gratitude for all we have. It's funny the things we take for granted every day... such as... a single textbook? How many have you wished you could just toss in the garbage over the years? Or just shove away under your bed or in your closet? In some areas, it is not uncommon for there to be only ONE textbook per class. And these classes are not that small. In the "better" areas, they have at least 5 or 6 students to a book. And I have learned that the orphanages are even worse off with supplies. There is much to be done, but I am eager to work myself to the bone. They will not be let down and neither will you.

A very special thank you to the following. Your support has meant so much:

My family - Mom, Dad, Tara, Ashley and Michael
Gino Pennacchio
Sheldon Patinkin
Steven G.M. Stein
Steve Tomashefsky
Sterling Paul Shand
Char and Michael Seminatore
Shomshon Moskowitz
Stephen Ray
Robert Harris
Mary Decker
Doris Solis-Feliciano
Carol and Tony Tricomi
Beth and Steve Toth
Franci Berg
Nick Tozzi
John Marino
William Saar
Jean Gallo
Lisa and Tom Furnas
David Choma
Nasreen Bhai

Thank you all for visiting. Stay tuned - I will have much to share these next few months. Thank you for your support and interest. Together we can do anything!

Hello Yellow...

2009-11-26T17:20:00.106-06:00

Fever, that is...... Yellow Fever - What a beauty.

I had an amazing Thanksgiving back in Cleveland with my family and I hope you all did as well! My truly wonderful sister, Ashley, picked me up from the airport. I arrived at 11:00am and was originally scheduled to receive my immunizations at 4:00pm. "Looks like we're going now," Ash said. "Whaa?" Apparently my schedule had changed and she was kind enough to take me straight over to the doctor's office to receive my SEVEN immunizations for Tanzania. "Well, uh... alright then, here we go!" I'm tough enough when it comes to shots and so forth, but it was very nice to have her there for extra conversation and funny stories. An entertaining distraction never hurts as you're about to become a human pin cushion - and let me tell you, Ashley is most definitely great for a laugh ;) I've been blessed with a mighty smart and goofy family.

I had been told by a friend that Yellow Fever would "rock. my. world."

...and now I know why. Each time the very sweet nurse gave me a shot she'd ask, "ready for the next?" and I'd say, "Oh yeah, I'm good!" But after receiving Yellow Fever I found myself saying, "YYYYUP! It's time for a break..." I've never felt a shot truly run through my veins like that before. Black dots slowly freckled my vision... "I think I'm going down!" I said this with a laugh, only I was definitely not kidding. Freezing and sweating... "Lay back in ya chaya (chair)," this adorable old woman next to me explained, sitting with an IV in her hand. Probably 15 minutes later after fanning myself with the Cleveland Arts Magazine (they have that?) and catching up on "Dancing With the Stars" (no, sorry, I've actually never watched it) - I said, "alright, let's do the other arm." In all honesty, it was not a big deal, but a lot for my body to take at once; a funny experience and an informative one.

Fact - shots that hurt more as you receive them most likely have more fluid and will end up hurting less later. For the record, Meningococcal Meningitis has a LOT of fluid ;) and Yellow Fever hurts more later -- leaves for one very sore arm the next few days... makes for very poor results when playing pool in the basement with your family on Thanksgiving. "I. can't. lift. my. arm." Of course, it is all worth it when you consider the cause. I had planned on receiving seven shots and only endured five this day. The other two will be taken orally over the next few weeks. Good deal!

All in all, here are the current immunizations one is recommended to have when traveling to Tanzania. I've received:

Yellow Fever (Legally Required)
Meningococcal Meningitis
Diphtheria/Tetanus
Hepatitis A
Polio
Typhoid - oral
Malaria - oral

As much as I'd love to jokingly complain about all this, I am very lucky to have had no fever and experience only soreness. More importantly, what gets me through every bit of sacrifice here, is understanding how blessed I am to have had these immunizations. There are men, women, children who lose their lives EVERY DAY because they don't have the opportunity to have what I just had... so how on earth could I not feel grateful to have had these shots? And to therefore be healthy in Tanzania? I am, indeed, very grateful. Being healthy will give me the chance to offer so much more with these hands; this voice; this heart that is so avidly ready to make a difference for what looks like a truly beautiful culture. It's important to keep ourselves in check in life and I must understand that this volunteer experience is no chore, but rather a fantastic gift.

(No gloves)

Tanzania is a developing nation in the lowest 25% of the world's economies. Medical care is substandard throughout the country and it is not uncommon to encounter a shortage of routine medications and supplies. HIV/AIDS is estimated to be present in 6% of the adult population, which puts Tanzania in the top tier of all countries. I imagine many orphans have lost their parents to the infection.

90%, ninety percent, of all malaria deaths occur in Sub-Saharan Africa and it is the leading cause of death for children in Tanzania. Ready for this? Malaria can be cured with prescription drugs. Talk about being grateful for what we have in life. Malaria and Yellow Fever are transmitted by mosquitos so while I do have this vaccination, I will also be sure to keep covered in long sleeves and pants, as well as have a mosquito net draped over my bed. Anti-Malarial drugs must be taken exactly on schedule and I will, of course, have DEET insect repellent on at all times. Gallons of DEET + long clothing + great heat -> Enter: Britni Stink Tozzi.

These are photos taken by a previous volunteer at a "hospital" in Tanzania:

Baby weighing

Post Natal Care Lessons

While I do not have a background in medicine and am therefore unable to work in the hospitals, you have my word that I will do my best to visit these facilities and learn as much as I can to help inform you and raise awareness. My fear is that one of the biggest issues will be a lack of supplies for these people. I will, of course, be able to inform you more accurately upon my experience.

..........I asked Ash to shoot a pic of my band-aids and she proceeded to rip my shirt off at the dinner table and attack me with the camera. There is nothing like family. I love them with all my heart. We must appreciate who we have and what we have in life. While I realize our own country is not perfect, today I am thankful for the clean and well-supplied facilities we have. We are blessed in many ways and there is much to be thankful for.

Special thanks to my Dad for helping me set up and receive these immunizations! Thanks to my whole fam for their love and support. Again, please feel free to leave comments or ask any questions you may have.

I applied for multiple visas today - stay tuned for what's next! Thank you and God bless.

Diving In

2009-11-18T19:17:00.040-06:00

Welcome and thank you for coming by! My name is Britni Tozzi and I am a Chicago based actor / singer. I grew up in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio and am fortunate to have a remarkably passionate and supportive family back home -- So supportive that when I mentioned taking a one month hiatus and leaving all of my things behind to head for Africa, they first said... "uhh... right" and then "oh, holy cannoli... she's serious - well, I guess we'll just have to be behind her." But, in all honesty, this trip has been a long time coming. As part of an invested and empathetic family, I've always had a deep care for and awareness of the world around me. Perhaps it was my mother disregarding my straight A's and asking my teacher if I was "more importantly being a good person?" ;) or maybe my father stressing the importance of seeking and living with passion and compassion. After years of open eyes to the struggles in Africa, I thought - that's it... I have to go. I've never been very good at being apathetic. If I see something upsetting and I know I can do something - I will - even it may seem beyond my means. But, it was always just a dream... until I realized, "What is wrong with me?" - How long can you say "I will do this someday" before you get it together and GO? It is my only month off from shows this year and I'm just grateful to have that month for leave (also to my boss).

In six weeks, I will be taking the long flight over to Tanzania, Africa. From all I've seen and heard, Tanzania is a truly beautiful place - another piece of God's marvelous work of art and I cannot WAIT to see its treasures, the people, the animals, etc. Though located directly next to Kenya and Rwanda, Tanzania has had a fairly peaceful history, which is no wonder why the refugees from nearby locations end up there. It is these refugees I long to help most. In Tanzania, I've been given the opportunity to teach classes in schools that are terribly understaffed, to help out in orphanages where a child may have lost both parents and siblings to illness, genocide, terrorism - you name it, and I pray, I will have an opportunity to visit these refugee camps and offer some sort of hope and life for these people. While there is more I yearn to share with you all, I must realize that for safety purposes some things may have to wait. Please come along this journey with me. Having the dream is one thing, executing it is another involving everything from passports / multiple visas, travel warnings, financing my own flight, IMMUNIZATIONS, language barriers, serious laws, serious dangers, etc. It is my honor to share this process and experience with you; to have it be yours as much as my own. I will do everything I can to update while I am there, but if the experience is too heavy or I simply don't have any technological access, I will happily share stories, information, and ways for you to help out upon my return.

Please feel free to leave comments, ask questions, whatever it may be.

Thank you so much for your time and God bless. Stay tuned for what's next! ;)