Building Connections / つながりをつくる

　One of the things I really like about Friends School is the work our International Friendship Committee does. While the committee largely works independently, I do join them several times a year to support their work for overseas projects. Since the pandemic hit, many of their projects have had to be put on hiatus, but one we have been able to continue is our sponsorship of the education of children in developing countries. Of course it’s very important to gather donations and, as financially more fortunate people, to help support others. However, we also have a responsibility to show compassion and to learn more about the work we are funding. In the International friendship Committee, that takes the shape of letters and cards to the sponsored children throughout the year.

　In April when we get the information about who we are sponsoring the committee takes time to research the country and the issues faced there. They make a small profile of the country and the child to display for all students. Then they work on writing a letter to introduce themselves and the school, and to build a real human connection with those who come from a different walk of life to us. It’s been truly wonderful to see the faces of the students when they get a personalized reply from the students overseas. In the picture you can see some of the letters our committee members have written to this year. They also took, and printed out some photos of the school and Mita to send to the overseas students.