3: When is the next volunteer planning session?  Top
A: Volunteer meetings have been scheduled for the first Wednesday of every month, July - November 2008 (Jul 2, Aug 6, Sep 3, Oct 1, Nov 5). Meetings are at Lake Union Crew at 6:30pm - 1 hour max! Map & directions

4: What is the fundraising goal?  Top
A: $135,000

5: How can I stay abreast of fundraising activities?  Top
A: Watch the Donations page - the latest fundraising news will always be available there. If you want to get involved or have an idea for a fund raiser, please contact Rome Ventura at rome@lakeunioncrew.com.

6: How can I find out who is traveling when I am?  Top
A: The latest volunteer information will be shared at the monthly volunteer meetings (see Question 3 above).

7: What should I know about AIDS before I go?  Top
A: The most important monthly volunteer meeting will be on November 5th - we will be bringing in a health professional who is experienced in training volunteers with regard to HIV/AIDS safety and protocol.

8: Can I make my own travel arrangements?  Top
A: You most certainly can. IMPORTANT: If you plan to be part of the group transportation from Johannesburg to the project site, the van departs the Johannesburg airport on Thursdays at 5:00pm. Therefore, arrange your flights so you have ample time to collect your bags, clear customs, and be ready to depart at 5:00pm on the van.

If you have questions about flights, Ray at Continental Travel (ray@continentaltvl.com)is available to advise you to insure you will arrive in time for the van. See the Travel Schedule page for full information about scheduling your own arrival and departures.

9: How do I make safari arrangements?  Top
A: Check out the Safari page - all the details you need are there.

10: What are the volunteer sleeping accommodations like?  Top
A: Some of you were brave enough to ask if we will have 'real' toilets and showers while we are there. Yes, you can expect to use normal toilets, but we will need to schedule showers among us due to limited hot water. Also, volunteers' meals will be prepared by someone accustomed to cooking American comfort food. Local dishes will also be available. We will be requesting what you like, dislike, can't eat as well!

11: What is the exact location of the project?  Top
A: If you are looking at a map of Lesotho, find the capital city of Maseru along the central western border. From there, go north along the border until you come to a border crossing to Ficksburg on the South African side and Maputsoe on the Lesotho side. From there we are about 20 minutes SE in a small village called Bela Bela. Or travel there the easy way - Google Maps!

12: What vaccinations do I need?  Top
A: Which shots you need will depend upon which ones you've had recently, your own general health, which parts of Africa you are traveling to and whether you are adding on the safari. Please be sure to include a tetanus shot since you'll be around construction. In Seattle, we recommend the UW Travel Medicine clinic - it's fast and easy - their number is 206-598-4888. If you don't have insurance, our October meeting will have a nurse/doctor who can administer the required shots at reduced cost. If you don't live in the Seattle area, check the CDC web site for Lesotho for information and contact your local doctor for a recommendation.

13: May I bring others with me? What if they're not from Seattle?  Top
A: Several people have asked about having people they know from around the country join them in this project. Yes, they are most certainly welcome! Basically, as long as you know them they are welcome. We just don't want to open this up to people no one else knows for security reasons among the kids. If you're not from Seattle, not to worry. Keep an eye on this website and this FAQ page for the latest info, and you can always contact Rome or Ann with questions.

14: What is the Registration Donation?  Top
A: The $300 is a deductible donation which will go toward the ground transportation and food costs. We are collecting it at the start of this process to solidify the participant list (from the 'this sounds like fun' list) and get the construction schedule refined.