What an Opportunity

We first received a letter at the end of September, addressed "to the parents of Zachary King". I originally thought it was just more junk mail but I always open it and check anyway. To my surprise it was actually an invitation for our son to apply to become a "People to People Student Ambassador". It wasn't until we visited the website and found out that he might be chosen to visit Europe in the summer of 2011 that we became very intrigued, somewhat envious (that we weren't going to get to go too), and very excited!
Through our research we found out that he would get to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, swim in the Mediterranean Sea, visit with a former member of Parliament, reach out and learn about cultures other than his own while representing his country, stay on local farms with host families, as well as many other exciting experiences.
We decided immediately that we would do anything for him to be able to take advantage of this opportunity. The first step was to submit an application and go for an interview. After the interview we were told that he was accepted into the program. That news brought on a whole other set of emotions and questions. Like how were we going to be able to finance the tuition fee (approx. $7000) and how were we going to go about raising funds to do so? We also realized we were going to be sending our son to another country! Not something we're accustomed to doing.
We think we have come up with a plan - he has started collecting cans. We have also spread the word to everyone we know and they are saving scrap metal for us as well. Since the holidays are coming up we printed up fliers and are making cookie dough, fresh baked breads and cakes and raffling off a gingerbread house and church.
So far we have raised $644. Not a lot in comparison to what we have to get to but we've only just begun. More fundraising ideas are on their way, I just know it. I think we will get there. With a little persistence and a lot of work. No to mention it will all be worth it! This experience is one he will never forget. You never know the group of Student Ambassadors may even be invited to a Royal Wedding!!!

LaDonna