Blog

As we have mentioned before in our blogs and donor emails, sometimes we complete projects in just a few weeks and some projects can take many months from conception to delivery of the final goods.  Though some initial supplies have already been sent for SoA's Help Army SFC John Ingrum Help Iraqi Children, we have been working to coordinate the delivery of 3,000 school kits donated by SoA's wonderful donor Bob Dohse.  Several shipping challenges delayed the final pickup of supplies but we are excited to report that the kits are scheduled to board an ocean container on 9/10.

The school kits are bound for SFC John Carro who is currently stationed in Habur Gate, Iraq and is waiting anxiously for the delivery which should arrive in time for the start of the new school year.

A special thanks go to Doug Franco and Orchard International who have stored the kits for us for many months at no charge.

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When Chaplain Abe Dispennette contacted us from Afghanistan, he was looking to help the local children in the community he is stationed in. His request was for soccer balls and sandals. He wrote to us saying "I wish I could explain how excited these kids are to get something like that...it's like giving a kid in the states an XBox."
We responded by ordering 100 pairs of childrens' sandals ranging in sizes from toddler to older children. We also sent 100 soccer balls for distribution. When Chaplain Dispennette received the sandals, he sent us the following email:

"Hello there. I got the Sandals in just yesterday and they have already been sent to be distributed out to the local community...The locals were shocked when I showed them the shoes brand new in the box. You all are outstanding!
Still waiting on the soccer balls. My unit has big plans for them that I can't share at the moment but know your works much needed and appreciated. Thank you again."

We can't wait to hear about the big plans and the distribution of the soccer balls!! We will be sure to post pictures once we receive them from Chaplain Dispennette. Stay tuned...

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Greetings Friends and Supporters!

In this email:
*Help Chaplain Brian Murphy bring clean water to areas in "Triangle of Hope"
*Marine SSG Kaylan Jennings Playground Project in southern Iraq
*Unrestricted Fund continues supporting our "Goodwill Ambassadors" in Afghanistan and Iraq

HELP CHAPLAIN MURPHY BRING CLEAN WATER TO "TRIANGLE OF HOPE" IN IRAQ
We first heard about Chaplain Brian Murphy through Soldier's Angels. We asked him if Spirit of America could help and well; he was just as excited to find us as we were to find him! We want you to get to know Chaplain Murphy, as we have, so here are some excerpts from his emails to us:

June-2008 Chaplain Murphy writes:
"Wow, this is so great, this really warms our hearts. We will send lots of pictures. We are in great need of three things in this area, clean water, medical supplies and school supplies. If you can help us this will be great.

Again these things save lives here, when you help a family, when you show people that you care they refuse to be used by the terrorist. When you help us to help them, you serve right along side of us. Thank you so much.
Chaplain Murphy
PS we are at 10 months and have 5 more to go, however the new unit coming in will use everything we don't. So any help will be great in this area."

July-2008Chaplain Murphy writes:
"The area we are in was formally called the "triangle of death" in the last eleven months, we have helped to turn that into a "triangle of hope". The Iraq people are in great need of medical supplies and clean water. We have great hopes to supply them with solar power water filters of any size and as many medical supplies that we can get.

The compassion of the American Soldier is one of the most powerful weapons in our arsenal. When we arm the Soldier with these items and give them to Iraqi families it gives them hope and helps them to understand that the propaganda that they hear about Americans is not true. You can help us to do that.
Blessings, Chaplain Brian Murphy "Rakkasans"

This is Chaplain Murphy with some of his young friends

We've already sent the "quick start" help; hundreds of soccer balls, toys and backpacks filled with school goodies. The soccer balls were such a hit we just sent another 500 at his personal request. The next step is the water purifiers, big ticket items that we need your help to purchase. Please support Chaplain Murphy's efforts to supply clean water to the local Iraqi's by donating whatever you can at his project page here Help Chaplain Murphy bring clean water to Iraq. Our goal for Chaplain Murphy's project is to raise $15,000.

MARINE SSG KAYLAN JENNINGS PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT PROJECT AT IRAQI PRISON
SSG Jennings request for playground equipment for the youngsters who accompany relatives to visit detainees has the unique potential to present a positive impression of the US to a critical population. This is an often overlooked group in Iraq; the children and families who travel many miles with little resources over dangerous roads to visit relatives who are prison detainees. By showing these wives and children concern about their well-being during a difficult time, we have a great opportunity to combat negative stereotypes.

SSG Jennings writes:
"Hello! I am a soldier currently serving a 15 month tour in Iraq.

We currently work at an Iraqi prison in Southern Iraq. We have over 20,000 male Iraqi detainees here. Their wives, mothers, sisters, friends and children are allowed one visitation a month. I am contacting you on behalf of the children. These families often travel 2-3 days from Baghdad along some of the most dangerous routes in the world. They sleep in cars and on buses. Because the males are usually the main workforce in a family, many of these women and children have nothing.

I was wondering if your organization has any program that might be able to help get toys and clothes to the children coming here on visitation meetings. I am putting together a mass Toy-drive from numerous churches and families at my home station. Any help would be appreciated.

My ultimate goal would be to build a playground and an area specifically for the kids here. Anything you can do to help or just a point in the right direction would be greatly appreciated more than I can say!

Thank you so much for everything you do!

Of course we responded right away and sent hundreds of coloring books and markers, board games and backpacks stuffed with school supplies.

Here's SSG Jennings response after receiving our help last month:

"Just wanted to let you know that all your boxes came - On the 4th of July (how ironic huh!) I spent the entire 4th back the backpacks full of the supplies you sent as well as other donations from all over. It was the most amazing day!!! Thank you so much for allowing me to help these children. It has been the light in an otherwise dark and depressing situation. These kids are my world and I couldn't do this without you!!!!

Thanks again so much!! I'll be sure to send pictures this weekend when we hand everything out!"

She kept her promise on sending pictures; here is SSG Jennings and "friend"

Marine SSG Jennings has a wonderful spirit and a commitment we'd like to help her fulfill. We've already identified some play sets that can be broken down and shipped (our biggest challenge) but the cost is high. . .at least $8,000. This is a chance to demonstrate the kindness of the American People, and we're glad to have it. We hope you agree, by helping us meet our goal of $8,000 to get this purchased and on the way. Whatever you can send is greatly appreciated. Click on the following link to contribute to Marine SSG Kaylan Jennings Playground Equipment.

USE OF THE UNRESTRICTED FUND CONTINUES
By using $25,000 of our Unrestricted Funds, Spirit of America continues the efforts of our deployed men and women in Afghanistan and Iraq, allowing them to spread kindness wherever they can, here's more on our "goodwill ambassadors" for the last couple of months:

-Chaplain Abe Dispennette in Afghanistan received 100 pairs of new children's sandals, all sizes and 100 backpacks with supplies.
-LTC Boyle in Afghanistan will get those extra 1,000 backpacks we mentioned in our last email, they are shipping now.
-Army Chaplain Philio in Iraq received hundreds of backpacks with supplies and soccer balls.
-Army Cpt Kelly O'Lear in Afghanistan, hundreds of backpacks stuffed with school goodies
-Army Colonel Jane Curtis in Iraq, hundreds of backpacks stuffed with school goodies
-Army SPC Kevin Christenson in Iraq, hygiene kits, backpacks, beanie babies

We're all painfully aware of the sluggish economy and high food and gas prices, so we especially appreciate your continued support of these projects at the request of our troops. Our service men and women deployed in these troubled regions not only have a mission to bring positive change to the local community; they also have a heart for it and depend on us to help them do that. Thank you for your support, we'll be back with more updates in a couple of weeks!

All the best,

Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica

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Your incredible contributions to Spirit of America's Unrestricted Fund have once again brought hope to those in need. Colonel Jane Curtis serving near Baghdad requested and received beanie babies to share with children that she encounters during check-ins to the International Zone.  She recently sent this new message on how the supplies are helping to make friends.  SoA will also be providing 250 school kits for the upcoming school year through the Unrestricted Fund. Thank you for your support of our mission to extend the goodwill of the American people through US personnel serving abroad in emerging democracies.

Colonel Jane Curtis and friends

"Good evening,
Just wanted to send you a picture. We have become involved with a family of "little people" here in Iraq. They were living in a shack. LTC McQuire, (in the picture) was trying to help them find a real home and to make a very long story short, a civilian contractor found out what she was trying to do, decided to provide them a house and give the Dad a job (he is disabled from the Iraq/Iran war).Mom is 9 months pregnant.
The little boy in the picture is 10 years old.
The kids LOVED the beanies." -USMC Colonel Jane Curtis

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Please take a minute to check out these 2 new project requests from Iraq:

• Help Army Chaplain Murphy Bring Clean Water to Iraq: "..helping us meet the needs of the Iraq population assists Soldiers in winning Iraq’s loyalty and in the end this helps protect our Soldiers....The area we are in was formally called the “triangle o death” in the last eleven months, we have helped to turn that into a “triangle of hope”. The Iraq people are in great need of medical supplies and clean water. We have great hopes to supply them with solar power water filters of any size and as many medical supplies that we can get.

The compassion of the American Soldier is one of the most powerful weapons in our arsenal. When we arm the Soldier with these items and give them to Iraqi families it gives them hope and helps them to understand that the propaganda that they hear about Americans is not true. You can help us to do that. " Chaplain (Cpt.) Brian Murphy

• Army Sergeant Kaylan Jennings Playground Project to bring joy to families who visit detainees. We currently work at an Iraqi prison in Southern Iraq. "We have over 20,000 male Iraqi detainees here. Their wives, mothers, sisters, friends and children are allowed one visitation a month. I am contacting you on behalf of the children. These families often travel 2-3 days from Baghdad along some of the most dangerous routes in the world. They sleep in cars and on buses. Because the males are usually the main workforce in a family, many of these women and children have nothing. " Army Sergeant Kaylan Jennings.

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Greetings friends and supporters! In this email:

Our updates as promised on the Projects featured as part of our Memorial Day Challenge:

*1LT Jason Karluk in Mosel (Iraq) gets requested trauma bags and more
*1LT Greg Hembree gets camping equipment in his efforts to promote Scouting
*CPT Gregory Schaefer can now outfit80 Afghan Youth soccer teams
*Large and small requests, more unrestricted funds at work including soldier calling from Afghanistan!

CHALLENGE PROJECT 1-1LT Jason Karluk in Mosel Gets Trauma Bags and More
When one soldier's deployment ends, we're finding a lot of enthusiasm from their replacements to continue the good work. 1LT Karluk is home now, but he has passed the project he started, to bring critical supplies to Iraqis, on to SSG Jonathan Anderstrom. They're both pictured below:


That's 1LT Karluk all the way to the right and his replacement SSG Anderstrom at the left end of the group.

The 25 military medic bags (trauma bags), which each weigh about 12 lbs and contain everything needed in a first response emergency, are on the way. Now that the specifications on the other medical equipment requested have been confirmed, an autoclave and pediatric nebulizers will be purchased this week. That will be over $10,000 in medical supplies.

Email excerpts from Major Donald Vacha, Team Leader for 1LT Karluk & SSG Anderstrom

"Thank you. You're organization is an inspiration. I greatly appreciate the work Jason and his aunt did in connecting your resources with the needs of the Iraqi people.

I read your website and I'm very impressed with your mission. Feel free to contact myself or SSG Anderstrom at anytime. Additionally, we will ensure to get photographs as we distribute this so your donors can witness the impact. Once again thank you for your generosity."
Sincerely,

DONALD A. (TONY) VACHA
MAJOR, INFANTRY

CHALLENGE PROJECT 2 -1LT Greg Hembree helps jump start scouting in several locations in Iraq
In addition to paying the shipping for 1,000 Pinewood derby kits, Spirit of America purchased about $10,000 worth of camping equipment this month. It's everything from first aid kits to 2 man sleeping tents.

Excerpts from 1LT Gregory Hembree's recent emails earlier this month:

"It is so awesome that you just sent me this message when you did. I am sending a link to a wish list for Coleman supplies. This may look excessive at first glance, but these supplies will directly support their scouting plans for this year's event planner. The items will also be split with half dedicated to the Green Zone Council and half dedicated to the Green Zone Council. I gotta' tell ya', the motivation and excitement level that has boosted interest and active involvement with the Iraqi Scouting Program is just phenomenal. This is 1000 times more intense than I had ever imagined it would be, but it is absolutely energy well focused!"

"I can't wait to see the smiles of these boys upon receiving tents and sleeping bags and, well, SCOUT STUFF!!! This is actually making me feel younger, which is a welcome feeling in this environment."

1LT Hembree should start seeing boxes, LOTS of boxes, within the next couple of weeks!

CHALLENGE PROJECT 3- CPT Gregory Schaefer's Football For Peace
Not just a few soccer balls and jerseys, more like 880 sets, enough to outfit80 soccer teams! Each set includes the jersey, shorts and socks! Any parent with a soccer son or daughter knows how excited kids get about uniforms. The vendor has also generously donated 75 goal keeper jerseys and 75 whistles! That's approximately $12,000 very well spent.

Excerpts from CPT Schaefer's email this month:

"This is great news. We have re-graded a number of soccer fields here. The jerseys and balls will be just the thing we need to make this complete."

Boxes should start arriving any day, we should get some great pictures from him soon!

MORE UNRESTRICTED FUNDS AT WORK:
1LT Philip Swintek and SPC David Morris contacted us for help, hearing about SoA's ability to respond rapidly for help from one of his soldiers. 1LT Swintek described the area of Afghanistan that they are stationed in as"incredibly poor" and that they are eager to help the community. Of particular interest to them was receiving baby supplies to help curb the effects poverty had on the youngest children. Spirit of America responded by purchasing $6,000 worth of powdered infant formula, baby bottles and cases of diapers in various sizes.

Here is what SPC Morris had to say about the items provided:
"Your help with sending supplies for these babies is totally awesome! These children grow up with absolutely nothing. Many babies and toddlers die from malnourishment as they rely on breast milk which is typically not much help as the mothers are typically very malnourished and ill-treated. The bottles, formula, and diapers will save lives. God bless you and your colleagues."

An added bonus that comes "straight from the heart". . . one of our volunteers (thank you Mrs. Z!) sprung into action and quilted several baby and child size blankets that will bring comfort and warmth to these babies.

Afghanistan calling. . . literally! Air Force Senior Airman Brandon Lape picks up the phone and calls Spirit of America
In his first contact with SoA he writes in an email:
"There are a lot of kids get injured out here from stepping on land mines left over from the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. There's something like an estimated 33 million land mines in Afghanistan, and we know where about 7 million of them are. That's a lot of land mines!! These little kids are getting killed and severely injured all the time. Those who do survive, are almost certainly missing limbs and extremely messed up. They're cared for at the Egyptian hospital on base, and there are kids in all stages of recovery. Team Patrick is taking this one head on!! This is what we do know...Kids love toys, attention, and just having someone spend time with them! The Egyptian hospital is understaffed and the conditions are sub par compared to our facility. They're operating out of several wooden shacks lined up side by side. My only goal is to bring a smile to the face of these children and let them know they're loved.

Along with this, I'm in the process of working through my chain of command to get approval to convoy out into the local villages outside the base and hang out with the kids, pass out toys and candy, and have a good time. I did something similar in Iraq and it was a huge success. Pray everything works out this time around."

Senior Airman Lape with Afghan boy

And then came the phone call, it was wonderful to hear the enthusiasm in his voice. We've already shipped lots of "kid stuff"; pocket toys, soccer balls, school kits and more. We're also working with Brandon, as he likes to be called, and the Doctors to determine what medical supplies will help the hospital on base that treats these local kids. More on that as we confirm their needs.

SFC Marc Yaw and LTC John Boyle to Distribute School Supplies to Afghan Children
Spirit of America was first contacted by LTC Edward McInnis seeking out backpacks and school supplies to distribute to the local children in Afghanistan. LTC McInnis recently rotated out but put us in contact with his colleagues SFC Marc Yaw and LTC John Boyle in order to complete the mission. We are happy to announce that the supplies were distributed recently to excited children. On SFC Yaw's behalf while he was on leave, LTC Boyle wrote to us and had the following to say:

"When I first arrived in Afghanistan, I conducted a HA mission with LTCMcInnis, to a local school were we distributed approximately 600 student backpacks (which were provided by Spirit of America) to the children of the Family Village Secondary School. The smiles on the children faces were priceless. Thank you all for making a difference in the lives of these wonderful children."

Soldiers Distribute Backpacks to Children

LTC Boyle just emailed yesterday that with the success of this distribution, could we please send another 1,000 backpacks? LTC Boyle also noted that upon SFC Yaw's return, they will contact us to discuss more areas where we may be able to support their efforts. We look forward to it!

Next email we'll have several new projects to feature, from requestors who want to provide equipment that will give clean water to a local village in Afghanistan to needed playground equipment in Iraq.If you would like to give a much needed (and appreciated) contribution to any of our projects or our Unrestricted Fund, here's the link to Spirit of America. As always, our sincerest thanks for making all that we do possible.

We'll be back in a couple of weeks!

All the best,

Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica.net

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Spirit of America was first contacted by LTC Edward McInnis seeking out backpacks and school supplies to distribute to the local children in Afghanistan. LTC McInnis recently rotated out but put us in contact with his colleagues SFC Marc Yaw and LTC John Boyle in order to complete the mission. We are happy to announce that the supplies were distributed recently to excited children. On SFC Yaw's behalf while he was on leave, LTC Boyle wrote to us and had the following to say:

"When I first arrived in Afghanistan, I conducted a HA mission with LTC McInnis, to a local school were we distributed approximately 600 student backpacks (which were provided by Spirit of America) to the children of the Family Village Secondary School. The smiles on the children faces were priceless. Thank you all for making a difference in the lives of these wonderful children." LTC Boyle

Soldiers Distribute Backpacks to Children

LTC Boyle noted that upon SFC Yaw's return, they will contact us to discuss more areas we may be able to help them with. We cannot wait to hear from them again and we will be sure to keep you informed when we do! 

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WHEELCHAIRS SHIPPED TO IRAQ REACH THEIR FINAL DESTINATION

Back in January, Spirit of America answered the call for help in shipping 44 wheelchairs with footrests to Iraq. We started out working with Major Todd Lazorski and Scott Lowdermilk with the US Army Corps of Engineers in Virginia. Once the wheelchairs arrived in Iraq earlier this year, they had to be stored until the Prosthetic Clinic opened. This effort moved through several contacts as deployments ended, but with patience and persistence on everyone's part, we're happy to confirm they have reached their final destination.

Major Ben Rivera sends his thanks:

"I also want to take this opportunity to thank all those that in one way or another made this donation a reality. Thanks for your effort, time, and patience during this long journey."

Major Ben Rivera
Secretary of the General Staff

Wheelchair Distribution and some of the happy recipients

ARMY MSgt TIM GILLS KEEPS THE "BALL ROLLING!"

Earlier this year supplies for Technical Sergeant Sherry Martin's Good Neighbors Program were purchased and shipped to her location near Baghdad. TSgt Martin deployed out of Iraq before the supplies could be distributed, but her replacement Master Sergeant Tim Gills was eager to follow through and help the local citizens. He did not give up, even though it took 2 months to secure the approval to go visit this area where the soccer balls, basketballs, and hygeine kits were to be distributed. MSgt Gills enjoyed handing out the supplies so much that he barely had time to take photos! We can't think of a better way to exemplify becoming "Good Neighbors". Here are excerpts from his story on distribution day:

"Thanks to different people and organizations like yours, we've come a long way. Now we are trying to focus on getting their schools up and running with school supplies and such. I only wish that my time wasn't nearing an end. It sounds funny because I have my own precious wife and 3 wonderful children I am eagerly anxious to see after being deployed for over a year. However, these kids had grown on me and I sort of feel like I'm leaving them behind. We ARE doing great work out here..."--Master Sergeant Tim Gills

Master Sergeant Tim Gills distributing soccer balls in Iraq and making friends

Here are a few quick updates-more of your unrestricted contributions at work, read on:

CW3 David Hooker brings smiles to Iraqi children

Army Chief Warrant Office 3 David Hooker received 250 school kits, 250 soccer balls and 250 beanie babies for distribution to Iraqi children. Upon receiving the 250 school kits, they were delivered to representatives of the local school. CW3 Hooker shared with us:

"We finally got the school supplies to one of the outlying schools in the village. The older gentleman is the headmaster of the school. He has about 350 students and was greatly appreciative. I am also enclosing a picture of myself, I am with two Iraqi children, they have 9 brothers and sisters and have been misplace during the war. Also they have lost their father to the conflict. We do as much as we can to assist them with clothes, food and medical needs. I want to thank you and your organization for the outstanding support."

CW3 David Hooker with Iraqi children

Colonel Jane Curtis distributes beanie babies to Iraqi children-couldn't pass up this picture she sent!

Sweet smiles come with distribution of beanies in Iraq

There are many new requests coming our way, including this one below from SGT Julie Vosilus stationed near Kirkuk in Iraq. She needs sewing machines and recreational equipment. As you can tell from her recent email, she's quite surprised at how quickly Spirit of America can get it done! We sent 250 soccer balls and beanies babies and as we tell our new requestors, that's just a start, we hope to help her with sewing machines and more!

SGT Vosilus responds:

"Thanks so much for taking the time to read my request! Forgive me for taking off the professional hat.but that's AWESOME. We've gotten to the point where it's hard to find places or people who are just willing to give their time, talents and money to help. Let's just say I've kept one letter in particular that tried to say "no" as pleasantly as possible, others just don't even respond. We've also gotten to the point where money can be spent for this but not for that.so thank you for what you do and are willing to give. It makes a difference and plays into the role of helping American soldier help others. One, it's a great thing to do and two, it also helps save American lives. I can't say "thank you" enough!" SGT Julie Vosilus

We'll update you in our next email on our new projects and the progress of purchases supporting the projects featured as part of our fundraising Challenge. There is much to report, from the purchase of medical supplies, to camping equipment for the Scouts to outfitting soccer teams. Stay tuned, we'll be back in a couple of weeks!

Best,
Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica.net

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Once again, your contributions to Spirit of America's Unrestricted Fund havepurchased much needed supplies for those in need in Iraq.  Colonel JaneCurtis in Baghdad received 150 beanie babies for distribution to Iraqi children.

All smiles after distribution of beanies

Colonel Curtis shares this with us "I have sent you 4 pictures that pass security. If it is possible to sendmore, I will try to make sure the guys have their badges out of sight.We have given all the ones you have sent, everyone loves them."

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Greetings Friends and Supporters!

The Memorial Day Challenge contributions have now all been tallied. To say it was successful is really an understatement. We're happy to report that over $61,000 was raised!!! What's even more astounding, is that over74% of those donations went to the Unrestricted Fund, which we can only interpret one way. . .you believe in Spirit of America's mission and you have confidence that your donations will be spent wisely.

We've mentioned before that giving to the Unrestricted Fund gives us the most flexibility to fulfill requests quickly, and that is exactly what we are going to do with your generous Memorial Day Challenge donations. Of the $61,000 raised, $16,000 will go to the individual projects you specified which leaves $45,450 you earmarked for the unrestricted fund. We will take the unrestricted money raised ($45,450) and spread it equally over the 3 projects featured in the Challenge. Bottom line is 100% of the Challenge donations will go towards fulfilling projects. Dividing the unrestricted portion this way gives an immediate infusion of $15,000 each towards the efforts of 1LT Jason Karluk in Mosel (Iraq), 1LT Gregory Hembree near the Green Zone (Iraq) and CPT Gregory Schaefer in the Wardak Province of Afghanistan. They've all been notified and are thinking "bigger" on how much good can be done with those extra funds. Below is just a start on what we hope to accomplish.

1LT Karluk emails:
"A big need I hear about are trauma bags for clinics. Often when a huge attack happens-these neighborhood clinics are first on scene, but usually do not have the trauma bags to support. I got to see this first hand yesterday".
He's also looking for pediatric nebulizers. Research is now under way to source the best equipment to provide for these "first response" needs.

And there's 1LT Hembree helping the Iraqi Scouts Program in the Green Zone who writes:
"There are opportunities ahead to expand the support to the Iraqi Scouting Program; Spirit of America has assisted tremendously in this endeavor and I can't express my gratitude enough to Michele for her focus on this project."
Arts and crafts supplies are already on their way to Iraq. We have much more on the burner, including a partnership with the Boy Scouts "Crossroads of America Council" to ship Pinewood Derby Car kits purchased with donations by American Scout Troops.

For CPT Schaefer in Afghanistan there are hundreds of soccer balls and volley balls on the way with the purchase of uniforms coming next. The prospect (now a reality) of supporting his efforts to outfit formalized leagues is very exciting and will certainly provide a constructive activity for so many who have so little.

Needless to say, we're scrambling to get these items and much more in the pipeline and will report back on our progress in a couple of weeks.

Our deepest thanks to all our supporters and a very, very special thanks to our "friend" up in the Pacific Northwest who initiated the Challenge and was instrumental in making it a success!

All the best,

Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica.net

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The specialized medical supplies sent to Herat, Afghanistan as part of the Army Request for Burn Unit & Maternity Ward project have been distributed to the Gozahra Clinic.  Critically-needed items such as autoclaves and forceps were purchased along with thousands of dollars worth of other equipment and standard hospital materials were funded through contributions to this project and will have an immediate impact on the quality of care for women and children in this area. The receipt of the supplies was attended by many local village elders and a sub-Governor, many of whom are featured in the photo below.

Local village elders, and sub Governor came to observe. LTC Pipes entertained them

As we shared in the project page, Afghanistan has one of the world's highest maternal and children mortality rates, with some studies estimating that an Afghan woman dies during childbirth every 30 minutes.  Dr. William Chin shared the messages of thanks from all involved in distributing and receiving the supplies for the clinic in his recent emails to SoA:

"The equipment has been delivered to the Gozara Hospital. It is run by the NGO in conjunction with the MoPH. Some of the equipment if found functional, will be push forward to two other community hospital in the near by districts. With NGO oversight, I am confident that this will happen.

There is a Dr Katiby, OB/GYN, who grew up in Lowe, MA, working at this hospital and he is the current Rotary Club President. He is interested in corresponding with other Rotary Club members and would also like to see if you can help with setting up a sister hospital in the US.  Additionally, he would like to extend his thanks to everyone involved with this project. The Director of the hospital, Dr Matin concurs."

If you are a hospital representative or Rotary Club member interested in corresponding with Dr. Katiby, please contact michele@spiritofamerica.net">michele@spiritofamerica.net and reference Gozahra Clinic in the subject line.

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We received more photos from Master Sergeant Timmie Gills, our replacement contact on the Good Neighbors Program project that we started with Technical Sergeant Sherry Martin.  Enjoy!

Iraqi boy gets a new basketball from Champion & SoA

Kids in camo receiving gifts

The big kids love the soccer balls too

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We couldn't wait to tell you the very good news, we not only met our goal of raising $5,000 in 24 hours. . .you made it happen within thefirst hour! In about a week, when the checks are in, we'll get a final tally and report back to you in our next email.

What an incredible outpouring of support! We can count on you and you can count on us to spread this kindness as far as it can reach. Now back to work, the requests keep coming, and thanks to you, we can keep answering.

All the best,

Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica.net

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Greetings Friends and Supporters!

In honor of Memorial Day and National Military Appreciation Month, an anonymous donor from the Pacific Northwest has presented Spirit of America with a challenge. . .if we can raise $5,000 in the next 72 hours (3 days), he pledges to match that and here's the real bonus. . .if we can raise that $5,000in the first 24 hours, he will continue to match donations all the way up to $10,000 over the next 3 days!

The clock starts ticking right now at Noon PST (Pacific Standard Time) and ends on Friday at Noon PST, so help us put this multiplier effect to work. Donate what you can, large and small, they will all add up and help us meet our goal. You can choose any project or fund, they will all count towards the challenge.

To make an online donation, click here: Give to Spirit of America
You can also call 1-800-691-2209
Or mail a check to our lockbox at Spirit of America, File 50315, Los Angeles, CA 90074-0315
Checks dated May 20th through May 23rd will all be applied to this challenge

For those who would like suggestions on projects to support, we've identified three new projects, two in Iraq and one in Afghanistan that could benefit from your help:

CIVIL AFFAIRS 1LT G. JASON KARLUK SEEKS TO BUILD RAPPORT WITH THE LOCAL IRAQI'S
His initial request came through his Aunt, Lori Jean Karluk. 1LT Karluk is serving his second tour of duty in Iraq and asks our assistance in changing the perception the Iraqi's have of the US soldiers as they travel from town to town. He writes:

"We can use anything you can send b/c it's basically humanitarian assistance/ building rapport with the locals. The area I'm in isn't the friendliest-and hasn't had a team assigned to it before. So these items allow us to go in and show we're not just bringing death and destruction. I need the items as soon as you can send them b/c we're constantly doing missions. It's not a start/stop thing-we're always on the go and we don't know when the opportunities to get to a school, kids, soccer field happen until we drive across one.

Thanks for the help."



1LT Karluk ispictured above with a couple of local youths. We didn't hesitate a minute and already have the "ball rolling" by using discretionary funds to send 100 soccer balls and 125 backpacks with school supplies. We were in touch with Aunt Lori within 24 hours of her forwarding to us Jason's request. She writes that she is "eternally grateful" for Spirit of America's help, little does she know, we're just getting warmed up! Here's the link to support 1LT Karluk's project called "Help Army 1LT Jason Karluk Brighten The Future for Iraqi Kids".

1LT GREG HEMBREE WILL CONTINUE BOY SCOUT OUTREACH EFFORTS IN IRAQ
1LT Hembree, who recently deployed to central Iraq, is an Adult Scouter Chairman, an Assistant Cub Master and has children actively involved in scouting. He has seen first hand what a wonderful community of friendship and guidance Scouting offers.

Upon arriving in Iraq, 1LT Hembree was "drawn in" by the efforts of the Green Zone Council to provide assistance and support to Iraqi Scouts. Since basic Scout needs such as camping equipment and uniforms have already been received for the local scouts, 1LT Hembree suggests providing Arts & Craft supplies, particularly Pinewood Derby Kits. This would be a good "next step" in our ongoing contribution to Iraqi Scouts and will help them build good character and have wholesome fun.



1TL Greg Hembree,US Pack Leader & Iraqi Scout Advocatepictured above.
Here's the link to continue supporting the Scouts in Iraq.

HELP CPT GREGORY SCHAEFER PROMOTE FRIENDSHIP TO AFGHAN YOUTHTHROUGH TEAM SPORTS
The Afghan youth represent the most promising chances to build a peaceful society. By providing them uniforms and equipment, we can play a part in their development and in their future. In team sports, the young men can experience the common goal of developing understanding, trust and friendship among different groups. Fulfilling this request will go a long way towards supporting the youth of the Wardak district, which according to the soldiers deployed there, has for the most part been passed over for assistance. This gesture of kindness will not only offer a healthy pastime, it will bring together people from all over the area to interact in a positive environment. Here's the link to contribute to CPT Schaefer's efforts to 'Support Football for Peace' in Wardak Province.

So let the challenge begin! We, as always, send our deepest thanks to all of you and your loved ones who have served our country.

All the best,

Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica.net

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After making a long journey across the ocean, the medical supplies purchased for SoA's Army Request for Burn Unit & Maternity Ward in Herat have arrived.  When we first learned of the desperate need for basic supplies at vital medical facilities in Herat, Afghanistan, the SoA staff was saddened by the situation and touched by the dedication of the project to Santa Gracia Ramirez, who was killed by a car bomb in June, 2007.  We were spurred into action to do our best to try and provide what we could to change things for the better. 

With the generous support of our donors and a wonderful partnership with Orchard International, we were able to send a huge 40' ocean container filled with over $500,000 worth of items including everything from hospital linens, basic medical supplies such as gauze, to larger equipment purchased specifically for Herat such as portable operating lights and burn care necessities. 

Many of the original contacts for this project including Melinda Lord and LTC Plink Hickman have already been assigned to other locations but were committed enough to remain involved in the project and it's resolution.  Through them, we recently received the following message from Dr. William Chin who is located in the area:

It is a pleasure to be able to assist in this cause. Attached is a file with three pic of the equipment. A conex of clothes also came with it. I am having the clothes go to the HA folks so they can facilitate distributing them.

The med equipment have been reviewed by the medical director, Dr Martin (sp?), and the OB/GYN surgeon, Dr. Kirteby (sp?) this morning. I will arrange for the ANP to deliver them to the Gozara hospital. I told them since I do not have a biomed technician here on Camp Stone, they will have to get their biomed tech to help sort out the electrical issues. They said no problem(!) and are thankful
for the equipment.

I also told them we will take pictures of the equipment on delivery and later in a month or two when they have fixed and placed the equipment in the hospital...

Cheers.  r/ Doc

Basic medical supplies, equipment and clothes for Herat

Filled to the top

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Spirit of America's Anoniblogging Project designed to bring vital information to bloggers in repressed countries was recently cited by the respected, top ten blog site Read Write Web.  RRW gave a nod to national RSS Awareness Day by highlighting some of the ways that RSS feeds have become a "world-changing" tool.  

RRW shares a video explaining what a RSS is and does for those of you not in the know.  In addition, it lists some important contributions of that technology; one of which gives a shout out to our very own BlogSafer site:

RSS lets me, and more than 100 other people subscribed, monitor changes on a wiki I helped the Committee to Protect Bloggers set up called BlogSafer.org, where bloggers living under repressive political regimes can read in six different languages about the current best practices for blogging anonymously.  

Spirit of America continues to support the Anoniblogging project by monitoring and maintaining the BlogSafer site. 

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Greetings Friends and Supporters!

We're going to devote this entire update tothe successful culmination of our Children's Library Book Distribution in Iraq throughour partnership with LIFE for Relief and Development. Here's the story:

LIBRARY BOOKS FOR IRAQI CHILDREN-DEDICATION AND COURAGE PERSEVERES
Some very good news that's been a long time coming. Our Library Books for Iraqi Children was a Project created to stock children's libraries in community centers, hospitals and schools. The US Coalition Provisional Authority, along with Iraq's Ministry of Education, identified over 200 children's book titles as the foundation for the ideal children's library and then our work began in earnest. With your support, we were able to purchase $38,000 worth of brand new books and then spent another $7,500 to get them to Iraq via a 40' ocean container. The books were delivered at the end of 2006 to LIFE's warehouse in Baghdad, but then had to be stored indefinitely, due to sectarian violence. We further mentioned this in an August 28th email update, not sure of the outcome yet, but wanting to keep you in the loop. Now, at long last, we can report back to you a wonderful ending, mission really accomplished.

Providing all these wonderful books is a gift that will continue to "give" to many children for a very long time. The titles include everything from Cat in the Hat, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Peter and the Wolf, Black Beauty to traditional books written in Arabic; Omar is Lost, Karma's Bunny, Who Hid the Eid Lamb? and many more.

Here's what our contact at LIFE for Relief and Development had to say this week:

"Dear Michele and Everyone at Spirit of America,

We want to thank you for donating books for 9 libraries that were developed in Iraqi schools. This project took 19 months to complete due to the dangerous situation in Iraq, but we are pleased to tell you that the project was completed successfully. The school principals, teachers and especially the students are all very happy and satisfied with their new books. Reading books to children to encourage them to develop their reading skills is so important throughout the world, especially in areas where children are caught up in war. Reading is a wonderful outlet that encourages children to think creatively about the story and not what is happening around them. I wish we could open more libraries in Iraqi schools in the future to give all Iraqi children the opportunity to read books from a library. Many thanks."

And here are just some of the many pictures she sent, they are priceless, enjoy!

Only an outdoor classroom available for these wee ones, but that obviously won't stop them!

That's our Spirit of America sign in the background!

All ages, all circumstances will benefit from your generosity.

Though this project has taken a while to come to fruition, it is a wonderful testament to how cooperation and patience work together to bring extraordinary results.

All the best,

Spirit of America
www.spiritofamerica.net

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