Run for Congo Women

Friends and family,

If you've known me for very long, you know how I have a passion for Africa. In fact, I believe it is my calling to help the people of Africa meet their economic needs. But with student loans, a loving community here, and plans for a career, I feel somewhat tied down and anxious to actually do something.

Now, I've found an opportunity to do something:  For 12 weeks I will run for the women of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Why the DRC? Quite simply it is the worst place in the world to be a human. And, it is literally one of the most under-reported and under-cared-about crises. (Zimbabwe is up there too.) For starters, the DRC has seen the greatest number of violent deaths since WWII, more than any other place in the world.

Well, I'm not the type of person to ask for money, but I think this is a good cause. I've created a page where you can donate to Run for Congo Women. It's a good organization and the money will be used for things like financial aid, job training, rights awareness, and leadership education.  Check out runforcongowomen.org to learn more.

My purpose in doing this, though, is less about the money. Instead, I hope I can inspire you to think outside your world and learn about others who are suffering. I hope you'll be inspired to do something too.

So in the future, you can look forward to more information about the DRC and constant updates on my progress as I try to run 216 miles in 12 weeks in remembrance of the women of the DRC. I'm starting with a 5k next Saturday with the Atlanta Track Club.

Click here to go to my fund-raising page.

Sincerely,
Zek

How many miles do you think I will actually run? Post your guess as a comment on my blog and let's see who comes the closest.