Our Story:

A favorite pastime for my Dad and me has been running together. It is our chance to catch up, talk about life, throw around ideas and just have the rare opportunity to be together, just the two of us.

Something else we both enjoy? As Grandpa Skinny Dugan says, "Help those who can't help themselves."  

On May 20th, 2012 we will be running the Bay to Breaker's race for the Girls of Daraja Academy - a leadership academy in Kenya for 104 exceptional girls who otherwise wouldn't be able to continue their education because of the barriers of poverty. We are lucky enough to partner with Joan Cherup, an 11th grader at Daraja Academy. On the very same day that we take on the Hayes Hill in the Bay to Breakers 7.2 Mile race, Joan and her classmates will be completing the same mileage on their campus in Kenya. 

We are asking you to help support Joan and Daraja Academy. 100% of your donation will go directly to Daraja, helping to educate and equip the girls with the necessary tools and skills to transcend poverty and help change the world. 

Asante Sana! (Swahili for Thank YOU very much!)

Kelly & Pat Dugan

_________________________________________________

Joan's Story:

For Joan, time at Daraja is flying by! “It seems like just the other day, I arrived at Daraja as a Form 1. I can hardly believe I’m already a Form 3!” Although Joan enjoys her time at Daraja, life at home has not necessarily gotten any easier. “My Mom is harsh. I don’t know why. Maybe I will never know. Bust she is why I live with my Grandmom, and why I insisted last time I went home that my Grandmom take custody of my three younger sisters.” Despite her challenges at home, Joan has been busy making the most of her time on campus. She is a member of one of the most sought after clubs at Daraja: the Science and Conservation Club. “My passion is learning about conservation,” Joan said. “As a member of the club, I was able to visit the Mpala Research Center and learn methods of sustenance and restoration that I can apply to the environment here at Daraja, and even back home.”  

Daraja Academy's Story:   

Daraja Academy is a boarding secondary school for Kenyan girls with top academic scores and exceptional leadership skills but no means to continue their education.  The academy provides shelter, food, healthcare and counseling services, which allows students to focus on their academic and personal potential, without being hindered by the everyday barriers of poverty.

Together, we can help educated girls transcend poverty and change the world. Click here to learn more about Daraja Academy.