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Throughout California, Rotary clubs sponsor Camp Royal, from the hundreds of applicants, I got to experience this with 50 other students. That event was truly something else, it really changed my life. I went there not knowing anyone and totally clueless about what was coming. I thought it would be some leadership event with activities, but it was way more than that. Camp Royal helped me figure out that I want to be a leader who is honest and caring. When I got there, I felt that mix of nerves and excitement you get in a fresh place. That week, I realized that being a leader is not about shouting the loudest, but about being real. I felt good and safe enough to open up, and we talked about our fears and mess-ups while pushing each other to chase our dreams.

A big moment for me was when we had to write down the values we live by. I sat there with my pen and a blank page. I thought I knew myself until then. I realized how much of who I thought I was, came from what others expected of me. After thinking about it, empathy, courage, and integrity popped into my head. Writing those words down felt like I was promising myself to live in a way that felt real, not just what others would accept. That week, I got to put those words to work. I learned that leading is not about bossing people around, but about getting people together and listening. When the week ended, I left feeling confident, not because I had everything sorted out, but because I was okay with not being perfect. Since then, I have seen changes in myself. I listen better, speak more honestly, and face problems with a purpose instead of being scared.

I haven’t had many times where I’ve been able to find myself, which makes that experience great. Camp Royal taught me what it means to live on purpose. It showed me that leading starts with knowing yourself, that courage grows when you’re open, and that being brave comes from being yourself. That week did not change me completely, but it started something that I hope to keep going. Thank you!!

– Kaydence

Dear Family and Friends,

Ten years ago, Fidel Bafilemba and I had a vision: to create a children’s library and digital learning center in one of the most impoverished regions of the world. Today, thanks to your support, the Lumumba Children’s Library and Learning Center (LCL) in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is a reality!

Click here to see the completed structure!

But our journey isn’t over. We need your help to Raise the Roof! We still need $60,000 to install the 5,000 square foot Big Red Roof and its metal superstructure. Once completed, we’ll qualify for a $100,000 grant from Rotary International for solar power and internet connectivity, which will transform the center into a hub of opportunity for the children in our community.

The LCL is not just a building; it’s a place where children can enhance their traditional education with critical thinking skills. We’ll offer a technology center, a lending library, literacy and English language programs, a learning garden, and so much more. We’ve already begun holding educational programs and community events, and the impact is already being felt.

Every contribution, whether it’s $10 or $10,000, brings us closer to our goal, and every dollar is deeply appreciated.

Please visit www.congolibrary.org to make a tax-deductible donation and help us continue this vital mission.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

Warm regards,

Paul Freedman, Fidel Bafilemba and the entire LCL team

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