Who we are
The relationships between Ames and the Kilimanjaro region has been growing stronger in the three years since our first visit to Hedaru. Our Purpose To work with the people of the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania to promote self-sustaining social and economic improvements through humanitarian projects.Our History
The answer to both the questions is YES. Both are valid. However, there IS a reason we chose Tanzania. Before Tanzania Partners was formed, St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Ames began a partnership with a church in Hedaru. Five members of St. Andrew's visited Hedaru in January of 2006 to meet our new companions, and there were four more visits in 2007, 2008 and 2009. In June of 2007, the water project began, and in February 2008 Phase 2 of the water project was completed. We quickly realized that with the many local connections we have made in Tanzania, our companionship was going to be about both our relationships, AND the projects that came out as a result of the relationship, so Tanzania Partners was formed to handle the project side of things. As Tanzania Partners takes shape, we hope to broaden our community support, enlist participation of larger sponsors, and expand our humanitarian efforts in to make a real difference in the lives of thousands of Tanzanians. People often ask if we are overwhelmed by the tremendous needs in Africa, and our answer is, "we don't try to work in all of Africa. We have this one little area, and our job is to do our best. To these people in this village, our work matters." Our Team
Many Iowa residents are actively involved with Tanzania Partners in all aspects of the partnership, including brainstorming, planning, coordinating supplies, fund raising, and traveling to Hedaru. The Hedaru Village Water Committee is equally involved in planning and implementing our projects on the ground. All labor is provided by community members. Our Board of Directors consists of the following people: Sheri Krumm, Chair; Nathan Saetveit, Vice Chair; Don Behning, Treasurer; Cheryl Davis, Secretary; Phil Meraz, Carol Putz, and Martha Tanner |
Who we are
Tanzania Partners was formed as a vehicle for significant humanitarian work through grass roots efforts both in Iowa and in Tanzania.
We are sometimes asked why we have chosen to work in Tanzania, a country that is literally half way around the world!
It is because of our team that Tanzania Partners can do great things! Both sides of our partnership are vitally important for accomplishing our goals with Hedaru.