In Memory of Juliana

An Open Letter from Randall Stubbs' (CAC Program Manager) Mom to you!

As a mother with her firstborn half way around the world and 3 of her grandchildren thousands of miles away, it is painful not to be present to love, support and hug them following Juliana's tragic death. Even though your children are mature adults, the need to give a mother's comfort is very real and present.

In the many sleepless nights since Juliana's death, I have pondered what I can do that would make a difference. I could hop a plane and be with my family in Tanzania. But it came to me in the night that perhaps there is more I could do. I can't lift the burden and sadness of the tragedy in my family, but I could lift another burden from my son's shoulders--the final $200,000 needed before February 2017 to complete the Cultural Arts Center which was instrumental in Juliana being able to live her dream as well as support herself and her family.

I am issuing a challenge to the hundreds of supporters and friends of my Tanzanian family, to make a tax deductible donation to the Cultural Arts Center equal to the price of a round-trip ticket to Tanzania to hug and comfort this family. For me, it would be approximately $2000 for that ticket. I am making a contribution today, in memory of Juliana Isawafo, the poster child for all that is good in Tanzania.

Check payable to: ELCA Global Gifts, on memo line (IMPORTANT) GMG0849 Makumira Music Bldg Project.

Mail to: ELCA Gift Processing Center, P O Box 1809, Merrifield VA 22116-8009.

It would be helpful to email: manager@cac.makumira.ac.tz, so they can find it in the accounting records.

Randy has less than 90 days to raise the funds to complete the building project. I'd rather he be allowed this time to grieve, with the rest of his family, the loss of his Tanzanian daughter than worry about fundraising. Thank you.

Randall Stubbs' comments

Thank you to my mom for this tremendous idea to bring some hope from this very difficult situation (read her letter above). I encourage our friends to consider this and help us do something meaningful in memory of Juliana Isawafo and the Cultural Arts Centre at Makumira.

Will you help in this way? Big or small, YOU can help make a positive difference!

If you are in Tanzania you can use Airtel Money (+255 786 300 213) or M-Pesa (+255 759 681 363).

If you are in the States see above for how to make a contribution.

If you are in Europe or Asia please send us an e-mail and we will help with the best way to contribute.

Check our website (www.cac.ac.tz) for more information and a progress bar. Thank you for considering to help in this way.