Kenya Connect: Support for Education in Rural Kenya

Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Kenya Connect: Support for Education in Rural Kenya We are honored to have Sharon Runge as our guest in this episode. Dr. Sharon Runge is Executive of Kenya Connect (USA) a non-profit working in rural Kenya with the mission of enriching and engaging students and teachers with 21st century skills through a robust array of programs at 63 partner government schools. In this position, Sharon works with the Kenyan led staff to develop partnerships, raise funds, develop and expand programs and lead volunteer trips. Sharon holds a Ph.D. from NYU and a MA from Boston College in Higher Education Administration and a BS from the University of New Hampshire in Child/Family studies. In this episode, we meet Sharon Runge, Executive Director of Kenya Connect (USA) as she introduces us to the amazing work her organization is doing in Kenya. While focused on improving the educational experience for impoverished students, Kenya Connect takes a broad, holistic view of the various support systems needed to improve and maintain learning. Sharon discusses the central role of establishing relationships with their key Kenyan counterparts, who are responsible for adapting the program to be culturally appropriate. She speaks from the heart about the needs of the people and how volunteers and donors can make a real difference in their lives. A truly inspiring story, and a mission worthy of support. Highlights:[00:00:00] Welcome [00:00:28] Introducing Sharon Runge [00:01:28] How did you become interested in Kenya Connect? [00:03:21] Expanding the mission [00:07:07] How was Kenya Connect accepted initially? [00:09:12] Developing Relationships [00:10:14] What do volunteers do in Kenya? [00:13:08] What obstacles have you encountered? [00:15:09] A Story of Faith [00:16:58] The Girl Boy Empowerment Program[00:21:34] An amazing staff in Kenya [00:22:32] How to help [00:25:54] ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:Sharon's Website Sharon's Facebook page Sharon on YouTube @KenyaConnect on Twitter @kenya_connect on Instagram LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/kenya-connect/ © 2023 Listening for Clues