2007-2008 Annual Report

Coming Home We all were surprised at how fast the two weeks came and went. Each day was filled with new progress and surprises. As usual, it was very hot and humid, so the ELWA ocean beach was a refreshing break. One time, when we quit working at midnight, we went for a spontaneous moonlight swim. The team was amazing and worked extremely well together. Every day we assessed the progress and put students where they were needed most. What a fantastic group of students! Before leaving Africa, we met with the ELWA leadership team to discuss projects for the next year — and more distant future — including designing and building a solar hot water heater for the hospital. The needs are great, and it is encouraging to see this partnership grow. With our three trips to Africa, we’ve worked to establish an ongoing relationship in order to annually bring a team of engineering students, and it was great to see that strengthened this year. When three of the workers came to see us off, it was truly heartwarming. We feel blessed to have accomplished what we did. Our African coworkers expressed profound gratitude for what we achieved and the resources we brought — but especially for the warm hearts, willing hands, and humble spirits that characterized our team. 25