Fundraiser Friday to help out in GuyanaBy Jeremy Grimalditeachers will hold literacy workshops, trans-METROLAND WEST MEDIA GROUPport sports equipment, instruct both teach-ers and students on how to use the resourcesDespite its legendary beauty, the tiny and create lesson plans that can be used forcountry of Guyana is one of the poorest in years to come.the Caribbean. This is a sustainable way to promoteQuality education in countries like education. We are going to be able to leave allGuyana, which suffers from chronic emigra-these things there, along with some knowl-tion and a serious lack of skilled human edge which the children and teachers willresources, is scarce.be able to use in the future, said Zinken.So when the opportunity arose to not only Zinken also shared some of her fears andconstruct a library, but also to instruct teach-hopes for the journey.ers, build new lesson plans for schools and I would say the toughest part is going toship hundreds of books to the country, be that we will be in very rural communities,Christine Zinken jumped at the chance.which dont have running water or electrici-The Milton resident will head down with ty, she said. I would guess the best part willfour colleagues, including Oakville teacher be helping others. I know how much we haveElaine Morton, for five weeks in July in here in Canada and how blessed we are, sohopes of not only helping future generations this is my chance to give something to thosein the 800,000-person nation, but also inspire who have little.a few students at her Burlington school.In order to raise the $3,000 needed to goThis will be a once-in-a-lifetime experi-on the Youth Challenge International-ence and an amazing story to share with my sponsored trip, Zinken and her travelmates,students, said Zinken. I have never done who must also raise the funds, will throw aanything like this. I am excited to use my Mardi Gras-themed event at the Oakvilleskills as a teacher to benefit those in need. Bronte Legion, 79 Jones St., in Oakville thisWe want to use our skills to impact globally Friday.MICHELLE SIU / OAKVILLE BEAVERas well as locally.The night will include food, entertain-So far three skids, with 40 boxes of books READY WITH THE BOOKS:Burlington teacher Christine Zinken (left) and Oakvillement, drinks, raffles, auctions and prizes. Toand textbooks on each, is on its way to the teacher Elaine Morton (right) are part of a group of five Halton teachers heading to Guyana in Julypurchase the $10 tickets, e-mail Zinken attown of Mahdia, in Central Guyana, south of for five weeks to build a library, deliver books and instruct teachers on lesson plans. A MardiChristinezinken@hotmail.com or purchasethe capital, Georgetown. 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