News
„Results and impressions from our trip to Ethiopia.“
From November 29 until December 6, 2011, the entire board of our association travelled to Ethiopia, on their own cost, to see the progress made on our projects. All, except Eddy of course, had never been to Ethiopia before. We knew that we were going to a poor country, but to see and feel it was different. The people we met were lovely and so warm hearted– always happy to give advice, help in other ways or simply to exchange a few words. Our first contact with their hospitality was our reception at the airport in Addis where we were greeted by some of the Eddy’s family members. His brother Dejene not only warmly welcomed us, but also accompanied and supported us the entire week, sorting out many things for the project in the background. On the first day we had a two hour, open discussion at the German consulate in Addis. We introduced our association, including our projects; we received some interesting and helpful information. We hope to have a good cooperation!
„The Water Project“
Due to the school’s good reputation and the resulting attention that the school gets, the provincial government of Oromia decided to start a water supply pilot project at Menjikso Tade. About 100 communities applied for this project! Ahead of our trip, a 180 m deep hole was drilled and water was found! At the moment, the pipe has been welded and encased in concrete. Further work (a pump station and a water reservoir at the hill nearby) shall follow soon. The whole village will help, and gladly as it is a dream comes true.
„The School“
We were pleasantly surprised and even overwhelmed that they had made so many improvements since the project started one year ago. A solar system was installed to provide lighting in the classrooms. As a result, all rooms are useable in the evenings (it gets dark at 6 pm!) for lessons that are given to adults and older kids. Also, the solar system can be used to charge mobile phones, facilitating communication with the outside. We were able attended the lessons given (after we were greeted with clapping hands and songs). The infrastructure was also improved by constructing an auxiliary building with two rooms, one for the teachers and another for the library. We left our English books there that we brought along with us.
We also saw that it was a good decision to have shirts and pants made for school children. The kids are very proud to wear these trousers. This school attracts many people and the number of school kids has grown from 250 to 460! They have 1 school director, 2 teachers and 2 female teachers!
And now we know what had happened within this year and that every cent spent was a good investigation. The next project is a toilet on the school grounds. A fence will also be built around the building to prevent the newly planted trees from being eaten by sheep and goats. Furthermore, the old part of the school shall be repaired, and we decided spontaneously to buy 12 school benches, as often 3 kids are sitting on one bench.
"A Car for the Ambulance Station in Chaffe Dunsa “
The next good news: our Transit is coming soon! The contract with Ford Werke GmbH is ready and the association will get ownership of this car in the near future! And all papers are signed for a tax- and custom-free import to Ethiopia! We will received them in Addis Abba in the last minute – shortly ahead of our flight back. The climax of our visit was a gigantic party the people threw us with a remarkable greeting. About 80 horse riders took us 8 km beyond of the village, and then shortly before reaching the school, we are welcomed by many kids singing and cheering. Such happiness and enjoyment is rarely seen. About 1500 people celebrated with us in the end, people young and old and even the local and provincial representatives. Many speeches were given and plans for the future were made. In closing, we are thankful that we brought back many enriching impressions and experiences that we will never forget: the friendliness of the people, the hospitableness of the families, the beauty of the country that surrounds Menjikso Tade and not to mention the pollution in the cities. We know that our money has been put to good use and we will continue with our work there!
"Dear friends and supporters of the Sonnenblume-e.V.“
We would like to say good-bye temporarily until the 21st of December as we are on our way to visit the school in Menjikso Tade again. We are eager to see how the school and the project has developed since our last visit. This time again we are able to bring many gifts and good news for the children and teachers in the form of donations, experiences of our activities for the school here in Germany and a school bus to be used for various aims, above all comprehensive immunization. And we are happy that a school in Germany is showing interest in a long-term collaboration with the Sonnenblume in Menjikso Tade. They are looking for active and sustainable collaboration with the school children and teachers and think of exchange possibilities.
We want to ask for your comprehension that emails will be answered again only in January 2012. And the homepage will only be updated in January.
On the 12 January we will happily and actively be involved again at all levels concerning Sonnenblume-e.V. issues.
We wish you all a restful festive period, a Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy New Year. Please receive our warm thank-you for your continuous support.
Best wishes from Alexander, Rudolf, Monika, Annika and Erdaw (on their way to Menjikso Tade)
"Hold: Images of Ethiopia in Ford Research Center Aachen GmbH for a good cause on 03.11.2011 opened! “
In the Ford Research Centre Aachen on 3 November, a photo exhibition with pictures of Eddy's Village opened. The colorful pictures of the Ford-editor Bruno Vörckel of his visit to Ethiopia has brought. They give an authentic picture of the people, their daily hard work and traditional celebrations. The introduction, Prof. Dr. Pim van der Jagt, representative of the R & A Diversity Team Europe. Following Erdaw Miko led with enthusiasm and vivid descriptions of the exhibition.
The exhibition will be on display until the end of November. Who wants to buy a picture or a calendar, please order by mail.
The cost of the calendar is € 25 (A4) or € 30 (A3 format).
The proceeds will go to 100% of the children in Ethiopia!
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
More about the project can be found on the internet:
http://www.sonnenblume-ev.de
Many thanks for your support,
R&A Europe Diversity Team
Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen GmbH
Opening of the picture - Exhibition at the Ford Research by Prof. Dr. Pim van der Jagt!
Lisa Lang, Head of the Ford Aachen Diversity Team, at left, explains how the pictures and calender can be ordered!
The photo shows visitors to the exhibition!
The photo shows Ms. Lisa Long, Dr. Martina Reichert, Mr. Bruno Vörckel and Dr. Clemens Verpoort (from left)
“29.10.2011“
Attending a family celebration in Verscheid (Westerwald) collected the hosts Donation for the current project of the die Sonnenblume Association came to the end total 350.00 EUR for improving the lives of the children are handed over. Thank you very much in the name of the children!
“Our stand on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the company Ford in Cologne“
„Die Sonnenblume e.V.“ presents its project at the Ford family day
Marking Fords 80th anniversary in Cologne, the company celebrated a big family feast on the factory site in Köln Niehl. Approximately 75.000 persons visited the event that offered catering stands, exhibition and oldtimer. A circular route of more than 5 kilometers along factory roads, festival places, halls, and stages with prominent groups allowed the visitors to learn more of the Ford Company Niehl.
We were able to present the “Sonnenblume e.V.” and its activities and the achieved results (the new school building with light and adult education via a film on a laptop) at this event and it was a big success!
And we had a lot to offer: An Ethiopian coffee ceremony arranged by three Ethiopian women, sale of Ethiopian biological coffee, self-made jam and handmade artwork made by friends and supporters of the Sonnenblumee,V., cloth bags and balloons (sponsored by Westfalen AG), refrigerator magnets with sunflowers and a lot of information regarding the project and the school in Menjisko Tade. Supporters of the “Sonnenblume”, an amateur dancing group and three live-drummers presented traditional African dances to show solidarity with the people in Menjisko Tade and to share their enthusiasm for African culture and the joy of life with the visitors of the family day. There was spherical world and crossover music by the Duo Flugsand at our stand and the musicians offered short drum workshops for children and adults.
This was another well attended colorful stand with diverse entertainment and with great interest in the activities of the Sonnenblume e.V. We had a good time and there was always a lot of communication, laughter and joy at the stand.
Visitors supported the project Sonnenblume e.V. with 1147.93 Euro that day.
We would like to express our cordial thanks to everyone who assisted: to those who made this possible, those who supported us and helped us before and during the event.
(Stand of the “ Sonnenblume e.V” at the Ford family day!)
(Ethiopian coffee ceremony!)
(Ethiopian biological coffee sale!)
( Musicians at the “Sonnenblume e.V.” stand and Drumming workshops for old and young visitors!)
(African dancing group presented traditional African dances!)
(Balloons for the kids!)
“Ford club show heart for club“
80 years production in Cologne was to celebrate for many brand enthusiasts with its original and true to the original cars are a reason. They met under the slogan "Made in Cologne" right on the outskirts of Cologne works. In the raffle, to the Ford contributed the coveted prizes, came staggering € 2000 together, which were donated to "The Sunflower Association." Wolfgang boom, Marketing and Sales, and Dieter Hinkelmann, Council Chairman, handed over the check to Erdaw Miko. The founder of die "Sonnenblume e.V." Association had conducted at the meeting at its booth numerous discussions about his initiative and the conditions in his homeland. Mr. Ralf Martin Wurm, 1st. President First Mustang Club of Germany 1964-1973 e.V.spontaneously donated an additional 500 €.
Helga Müller, responsible for the Club at Ford Service, had the idea for the raffle for the benefit of the Ethiopian children and beamed at the donation ceremony over her face. She thanked me warmly for the 36 women and men from the Ford RS Club Elsdorf who had taken quite a lot of organizational work and so made the meeting possible.
(Made in Kölle: 10.09.2011)
(Made in Kölle: 10.09.2011)
(Dieter Hinkelmann shows the amount of donations (200.00 €): 10.09.2011)
(Made in Kölle: 10.09.2011)
“Donation of the Peace community in Baden-Baden!“
Saturday, 17th September 2011 Mr. Kornelius Gölz was officially introduced new parish pastor of the peace community Baden-Baden. The church was completely filled during the festive service. The community´s council of elders beforhand had decided to donate half of the collection of the mass to the „Sonnenblume e.V.“ . In total an amount of 236 Euro was donated for the children in Menjikso Tade. During the mass, Marcella Müller had the chance to present the registred association “Sonnenblume e.V.” and its activities.
The photo shows the parish pastor Mr. Kornelius Gölz, the parish deaconess Sabine Schrade-Wittchen (outside) and in the middle Marcella Müller (Sonnenblume e.V.)
“A celebration for Eddy`s Village in Kita-Kreisel Kuerten (kindergarden and day care centre)on 3rd July 2011!“
This was the motto of 2011´s summer festival of the Kita/family center Kreisel (gyro). Eddy was the reason for this motto. He comes from a village in Ethiopia where he was born and grown up. Meanwhile he has been living for many years in Germany and yet did not forget that in his home country many persons have to lead a different life with much less abundance and opportunities. Among the issues that deeply affect him is education for children is one of them and with funds and donations he built a new school. As we are convinced that every single Euro will flow to his village we decided to support him in other projects with funds from our summer festival. In four to six weeks the children learnt and experienced many things about Ethiopia and Africa. First of all the children became aware that not every child is able to lead such a good life as they do in Germany. Photos and narratives gave an impression on how children live there. Moreover we made drums and learnt songs and dances. We designend African corners in which the children plaid with stones and wood. The children learnt about animals, food and clothing that are typical of the local population and a variety of other things were presented. And the children had much fun!!!! The summer festival was the highlight with various actions that could be performed: Handicraft work, making of African chains Diamond search in a sandpit Water to be worn on the head over a riding course with obstacles Actions like building Eddy´s village with cartons and cloth African food And many other offers like raffle, a bouncy castle, childrens face painting, a lot of food and the presentation of dances and songs built part of the festival. Of course Eddy joint us that day together with Sandra who also has visited his village. Both gave a presentation on Eddy´s village in the cafeteria and they had a lot of information on the registered society “Sonnenblume e.V.” The children were very happy that he visited them! They were enthusiast to meet and see Eddy they had so far only heard about in the last weeks. It was a busy festival that attracted and inspired the many old and young visitors. We are happy to support Eddy´s project with the donation of 600 Euro.
(It was light: 21.07.2011)
(With the help of light in the village, people learn to read and write. After work, they come to our school and are taught by teachers: 21.07.2011.)
(There were trees planted, a special thanks to Elisabeth Tappeiner, who began this special: 21.07.2011)
(the courtyard of the school is always green! 21.07.2011)
“A celebration for Eddy`s Village in Kita-Kreisel Kuerten (kindergarden and day care centre)on 3rd July 2011!“
dear Petra, dear Tanya, dear team of the day care centre “gyro”, dear children and parents and all stakeholders in the beautiful village for the wonderful summer party for Eddy`s Village!
We were very impressed how you organised and prepared this wonderful feast. Your dances, handicrafts and how Africa was placed in the centre of your kindergarten excited us. On our next visit to "Eddy's village," we will tell the children of your commitment and enthusiasm. We are sure the children in Ethiopia will be overwhelmed by your support and donation. A heartfelt thank- you to all the children, teachers, helpers of the beautiful summer festival. Thanks for all the cake, salad, kindness and cash donations. Your help counts.
On behalf of the children die Sonnenblume e.V.
Eddy and Sandra
“Construction of the library for the children has been started! “
(The construction workers are with their tools, their food and water for their drinking spot!)
(The schoolprincipal has taken the wood to build the library of the helpers in reception!)
(The kids are happy that a library is being built for them!)
(The children help with diligent!)
“Donation handover 06.06.2011 “
the outrageous sum of 1292,00 Euro provided by the Paul Kraemer school for the sunflower/SONNENBLUME e.V. A fund raising run that was organised for the “SONNENBLIME” made the donation possible. The money handed over shows Ina Lakermann and Monika Zimmermann (member of the Board of the registered society SONNENBLUME) when they thanked the students for their great engagement on the occasion of the run. Each kilometre run was stamped and some students collected 72 stamps that equal 24 kilometres. The professional trainee Corinna Hilbig had the idea for the project, established the contacts and organized the course. We want to convey the Special thanks of the children from Menjikso Tade to you.
(updated 06.06.2011)
(updated 06.06.2011)
(updated 06.06.2011)
(updated 06.06.2011)
“sponsored run-20.05.2011 “
Oliver and Marcel cannot be stopped. They continue the running track, lap for lap, panting and sweating, while each kilometre is registered on a beer mat The. Paul Kremer School and 130 more students run for children 5000 km away in Ethiopia. The special education school in Frechen near Cologne has launched a "sponsored run" for the Sonnenblume e.V. For every kilometer run the students´ supporters donate a certain amount for Menjikso Tade, the village where the African school is located. And they collect many kilometers - on their feet, in a wheelchair or attended by a supervisor. Meanwhile many pupils know this Erdaw Miko who previously gave a presentation of the work of the Sonnenblume e.V in the assembly hall of the Paul Kremer School. And because they know that the next project of the initiative is a well, the refreshment point of the sponsored run has a symbolic well.
"Hold: Images of Africa for a good cause! “
Dear ladies and gentlemen, the magnificent colors of the East African Ethiopia can be found in a photo exhibition, which will be presented in the NC, Köln Niehl, Ford-operating restaurant. From exciting appetite market scenes of atmospheric from the capital Addis Ababa to scenes of rural life - the picture show covers many aspects of African life. Ford report editor Bruno Voerckel brought with him the photos from a trip to report. Reason: In the Ethiopian village of Menjikso Tade the construction of a school - realized thanks to the support of Ford employees. The contact came about on the Ford employees Erdaw Miko, who supports his Ethiopian home village and is co-founder of the Association "The sunflower e.V.". Voerckel accompanied Erdaw Miko to the opening of the school and transferring donations, documented his "African expedition" and brought with him a variety of impressive motifs of land, people and everyday life. So came about the idea of an image show, again used "the charity": everyone can acquire the already framed motives at moderate prices. "Sunflower e.V." benefit from the proceeds of the exhibition. We want to invite you to a very informal gatherings for the purpose of image show welcome,
and on Monday, the 9 May 2011, at 4.30 P.m. in the NC operating restaurant, Ford-Werke Niehl, Gate 3, Henry Ford Street, 50725 Köln
on behalf of the children from Menjikso Tade greets you Alexander de Montespan
type 1 Chairman sunflower e.V.
“If you have to run 100 miles, it is best to say, that 90 is the first half.“
This old saying explains the situation in Ethiopia fairly well. The children from the little village Menjikso Tade often live miles away from school and have to walk long distances each morning. With the help of the initiative “Die Sonnenblume e.V.” the children have now received sturdy shoes. Nearly 200 children between 7 and 15 years are happy to have new sports shoes with which they can easily walk over the stony paths to their school.
Our biggest activity in the last year was our second visit to Menjikso Tade – our project site. With the donations raised in 2010, we travelled to Ethiopia to buy new schooling supplies and to look at the new school building including the interior. Erdaw Miko, Marcella Müller and Heike Otto as representatives of the initiative travelled at the end of January beginning of February 2011 to Ethiopia.
All the families welcomed us very warmly and with such hospitality that we could not accept all the offers. The village elders and the families came to inspect us and we inspected the new school building and the interior, everything financed by supporters of “Die Sonnenblume e.V.” between 2009 and 2010, organised and paid locally. Everything looks so nice, so nice that even the parents like sending their children to school and the most important thing is the school is very close. The school can now accommodate more children than before and obviously they arrive home early so that they can still help in the fields, which means none of the children need to stay home anymore to work in the fields. It is a great success! The children are happy there. So, many smiling faces came to see what we had brought: donated toys, new books, pens and working materials. The teachers were very surprised when we unpacked boxes of books. Now they have new books and the children can study with the up to date texts.
Our next project concerns the water supply in the region around Menjikso Tade. Sadly, just before we arrived another child died because of the dirty drinking water. Since last year clean water is a humanitarian right of the UNO and according to the WHO and UNICEF not even every second Ethiopian citizen has this. In the village the situation is disastrous. The people take their water from a dirty slum hole and unfortunately it is located directly on a hill. This means, as soon as it rains, and of course during the rain period an enormous amount of rain falls, – mud, dung and garbage go down the hill directly into the waterhole. The government has agreed to do something, but hasn’t specifically said when and a project like this needs time.
We want to help quickly so that no child, poor or sick person has to die from dirty water again. In the bigger villages in the area practically every kiosk sells so called water processing tabs. These are small bags with white powder that one can fill into a 20 liter can which subsequently filters the water. Bacteria and germs are destroyed and the water becomes drinkable.
About 700 households, to which the village Menjikso Tade belongs, would need 42.000 Birr to finance one year of clean water, according to the authorities. In Euro that is an amount of 1.900 Euro.
This is doable and we are looking forward to every cent that is donated.
Thank you very much on behalf of the children and their families!
(updated 19.05.2011)
(updated 19.05.2011)
(updated 19.05.2011)
(updated 20.05.2011)
(updated 20.05.2011)
(updated 20.05.2011)
Confirmees from Baden-Baden raise money for "The Sunflower"
Traditionally every year the confirmees of the “Peace Community Baden-Baden” choose one social project to support. This year the youngsters, decided in favour of our project. Marcella Müller, who meanwhile is living again in her hometown Baden-Baden, was able to give the confirmees a personal description of what our project is about. During several sessions it was possible to explain the country, the village, the people, the children, the school and the water supply situation. Conveniently, our stay in Ethiopia was around the same time as the confirmation period and so the youngsters were able to hear and see from recent pictures what their donations are being used for and reflect on the progress that has been made.
During the Confirmation Service on April 3, 2011, which was organised and arranged by the confirmees themselves, our project was introduced to the community. The latest water project was introduced and explained to the congregation, so that everyone knew where their donations in the near future are to be invested in. During the service 145 Euro was raised. A respectable sum due mainly to the efforts of the confirmees and the sum will become even larger, because the collections of the next two services will be donated to our project.
Before we departed to Ethiopa each confirmee created a picture with a sunflower. On our arrival, these were then decorated on the empty walls of the school classroom. The children were very impressed and thrilled that the youth in Germany cares for them. In this way, it has become much clearer to the children where these donations are coming from. It was great!
Many thanks to the confirmees, confirmation authorities and the whole “Peace Community of Baden-Baden”.
From November 29 until December 6, 2011, the entire board of our association travelled to Ethiopia, on their own cost, to see the progress made on our projects. All, except Eddy of course, had never been to Ethiopia before. We knew that we were going to a poor country, but to see and feel it was different. The people we met were lovely and so warm hearted– always happy to give advice, help in other ways or simply to exchange a few words. Our first contact with their hospitality was our reception at the airport in Addis where we were greeted by some of the Eddy’s family members. His brother Dejene not only warmly welcomed us, but also accompanied and supported us the entire week, sorting out many things for the project in the background. On the first day we had a two hour, open discussion at the German consulate in Addis. We introduced our association, including our projects; we received some interesting and helpful information. We hope to have a good cooperation!
„The Water Project“
Due to the school’s good reputation and the resulting attention that the school gets, the provincial government of Oromia decided to start a water supply pilot project at Menjikso Tade. About 100 communities applied for this project! Ahead of our trip, a 180 m deep hole was drilled and water was found! At the moment, the pipe has been welded and encased in concrete. Further work (a pump station and a water reservoir at the hill nearby) shall follow soon. The whole village will help, and gladly as it is a dream comes true.
„The School“
We were pleasantly surprised and even overwhelmed that they had made so many improvements since the project started one year ago. A solar system was installed to provide lighting in the classrooms. As a result, all rooms are useable in the evenings (it gets dark at 6 pm!) for lessons that are given to adults and older kids. Also, the solar system can be used to charge mobile phones, facilitating communication with the outside. We were able attended the lessons given (after we were greeted with clapping hands and songs). The infrastructure was also improved by constructing an auxiliary building with two rooms, one for the teachers and another for the library. We left our English books there that we brought along with us.
We also saw that it was a good decision to have shirts and pants made for school children. The kids are very proud to wear these trousers. This school attracts many people and the number of school kids has grown from 250 to 460! They have 1 school director, 2 teachers and 2 female teachers!
And now we know what had happened within this year and that every cent spent was a good investigation. The next project is a toilet on the school grounds. A fence will also be built around the building to prevent the newly planted trees from being eaten by sheep and goats. Furthermore, the old part of the school shall be repaired, and we decided spontaneously to buy 12 school benches, as often 3 kids are sitting on one bench.
"A Car for the Ambulance Station in Chaffe Dunsa “
The next good news: our Transit is coming soon! The contract with Ford Werke GmbH is ready and the association will get ownership of this car in the near future! And all papers are signed for a tax- and custom-free import to Ethiopia! We will received them in Addis Abba in the last minute – shortly ahead of our flight back. The climax of our visit was a gigantic party the people threw us with a remarkable greeting. About 80 horse riders took us 8 km beyond of the village, and then shortly before reaching the school, we are welcomed by many kids singing and cheering. Such happiness and enjoyment is rarely seen. About 1500 people celebrated with us in the end, people young and old and even the local and provincial representatives. Many speeches were given and plans for the future were made. In closing, we are thankful that we brought back many enriching impressions and experiences that we will never forget: the friendliness of the people, the hospitableness of the families, the beauty of the country that surrounds Menjikso Tade and not to mention the pollution in the cities. We know that our money has been put to good use and we will continue with our work there!
"Dear friends and supporters of the Sonnenblume-e.V.“
We would like to say good-bye temporarily until the 21st of December as we are on our way to visit the school in Menjikso Tade again. We are eager to see how the school and the project has developed since our last visit. This time again we are able to bring many gifts and good news for the children and teachers in the form of donations, experiences of our activities for the school here in Germany and a school bus to be used for various aims, above all comprehensive immunization. And we are happy that a school in Germany is showing interest in a long-term collaboration with the Sonnenblume in Menjikso Tade. They are looking for active and sustainable collaboration with the school children and teachers and think of exchange possibilities.
We want to ask for your comprehension that emails will be answered again only in January 2012. And the homepage will only be updated in January.
On the 12 January we will happily and actively be involved again at all levels concerning Sonnenblume-e.V. issues.
We wish you all a restful festive period, a Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy New Year. Please receive our warm thank-you for your continuous support.
Best wishes from Alexander, Rudolf, Monika, Annika and Erdaw (on their way to Menjikso Tade)
"Hold: Images of Ethiopia in Ford Research Center Aachen GmbH for a good cause on 03.11.2011 opened! “
In the Ford Research Centre Aachen on 3 November, a photo exhibition with pictures of Eddy's Village opened. The colorful pictures of the Ford-editor Bruno Vörckel of his visit to Ethiopia has brought. They give an authentic picture of the people, their daily hard work and traditional celebrations. The introduction, Prof. Dr. Pim van der Jagt, representative of the R & A Diversity Team Europe. Following Erdaw Miko led with enthusiasm and vivid descriptions of the exhibition.
The exhibition will be on display until the end of November. Who wants to buy a picture or a calendar, please order by mail.
The cost of the calendar is € 25 (A4) or € 30 (A3 format).
The proceeds will go to 100% of the children in Ethiopia!
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
More about the project can be found on the internet:
http://www.sonnenblume-ev.de
Many thanks for your support,
R&A Europe Diversity Team
Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen GmbH
Opening of the picture - Exhibition at the Ford Research by Prof. Dr. Pim van der Jagt!
Lisa Lang, Head of the Ford Aachen Diversity Team, at left, explains how the pictures and calender can be ordered!
The photo shows visitors to the exhibition!
The photo shows Ms. Lisa Long, Dr. Martina Reichert, Mr. Bruno Vörckel and Dr. Clemens Verpoort (from left)
“29.10.2011“
Attending a family celebration in Verscheid (Westerwald) collected the hosts Donation for the current project of the die Sonnenblume Association came to the end total 350.00 EUR for improving the lives of the children are handed over. Thank you very much in the name of the children!
“Our stand on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the company Ford in Cologne“
„Die Sonnenblume e.V.“ presents its project at the Ford family day
Marking Fords 80th anniversary in Cologne, the company celebrated a big family feast on the factory site in Köln Niehl. Approximately 75.000 persons visited the event that offered catering stands, exhibition and oldtimer. A circular route of more than 5 kilometers along factory roads, festival places, halls, and stages with prominent groups allowed the visitors to learn more of the Ford Company Niehl.
We were able to present the “Sonnenblume e.V.” and its activities and the achieved results (the new school building with light and adult education via a film on a laptop) at this event and it was a big success!
And we had a lot to offer: An Ethiopian coffee ceremony arranged by three Ethiopian women, sale of Ethiopian biological coffee, self-made jam and handmade artwork made by friends and supporters of the Sonnenblumee,V., cloth bags and balloons (sponsored by Westfalen AG), refrigerator magnets with sunflowers and a lot of information regarding the project and the school in Menjisko Tade. Supporters of the “Sonnenblume”, an amateur dancing group and three live-drummers presented traditional African dances to show solidarity with the people in Menjisko Tade and to share their enthusiasm for African culture and the joy of life with the visitors of the family day. There was spherical world and crossover music by the Duo Flugsand at our stand and the musicians offered short drum workshops for children and adults.
This was another well attended colorful stand with diverse entertainment and with great interest in the activities of the Sonnenblume e.V. We had a good time and there was always a lot of communication, laughter and joy at the stand.
Visitors supported the project Sonnenblume e.V. with 1147.93 Euro that day.
We would like to express our cordial thanks to everyone who assisted: to those who made this possible, those who supported us and helped us before and during the event.
(Stand of the “ Sonnenblume e.V” at the Ford family day!)
(Ethiopian coffee ceremony!)
(Ethiopian biological coffee sale!)
( Musicians at the “Sonnenblume e.V.” stand and Drumming workshops for old and young visitors!)
(African dancing group presented traditional African dances!)
(Balloons for the kids!)
“Ford club show heart for club“
80 years production in Cologne was to celebrate for many brand enthusiasts with its original and true to the original cars are a reason. They met under the slogan "Made in Cologne" right on the outskirts of Cologne works. In the raffle, to the Ford contributed the coveted prizes, came staggering € 2000 together, which were donated to "The Sunflower Association." Wolfgang boom, Marketing and Sales, and Dieter Hinkelmann, Council Chairman, handed over the check to Erdaw Miko. The founder of die "Sonnenblume e.V." Association had conducted at the meeting at its booth numerous discussions about his initiative and the conditions in his homeland. Mr. Ralf Martin Wurm, 1st. President First Mustang Club of Germany 1964-1973 e.V.spontaneously donated an additional 500 €.
Helga Müller, responsible for the Club at Ford Service, had the idea for the raffle for the benefit of the Ethiopian children and beamed at the donation ceremony over her face. She thanked me warmly for the 36 women and men from the Ford RS Club Elsdorf who had taken quite a lot of organizational work and so made the meeting possible.
(Made in Kölle: 10.09.2011)
(Made in Kölle: 10.09.2011)
(Dieter Hinkelmann shows the amount of donations (200.00 €): 10.09.2011)
(Made in Kölle: 10.09.2011)
“Donation of the Peace community in Baden-Baden!“
Saturday, 17th September 2011 Mr. Kornelius Gölz was officially introduced new parish pastor of the peace community Baden-Baden. The church was completely filled during the festive service. The community´s council of elders beforhand had decided to donate half of the collection of the mass to the „Sonnenblume e.V.“ . In total an amount of 236 Euro was donated for the children in Menjikso Tade. During the mass, Marcella Müller had the chance to present the registred association “Sonnenblume e.V.” and its activities.
The photo shows the parish pastor Mr. Kornelius Gölz, the parish deaconess Sabine Schrade-Wittchen (outside) and in the middle Marcella Müller (Sonnenblume e.V.)
“A celebration for Eddy`s Village in Kita-Kreisel Kuerten (kindergarden and day care centre)on 3rd July 2011!“
This was the motto of 2011´s summer festival of the Kita/family center Kreisel (gyro). Eddy was the reason for this motto. He comes from a village in Ethiopia where he was born and grown up. Meanwhile he has been living for many years in Germany and yet did not forget that in his home country many persons have to lead a different life with much less abundance and opportunities. Among the issues that deeply affect him is education for children is one of them and with funds and donations he built a new school. As we are convinced that every single Euro will flow to his village we decided to support him in other projects with funds from our summer festival. In four to six weeks the children learnt and experienced many things about Ethiopia and Africa. First of all the children became aware that not every child is able to lead such a good life as they do in Germany. Photos and narratives gave an impression on how children live there. Moreover we made drums and learnt songs and dances. We designend African corners in which the children plaid with stones and wood. The children learnt about animals, food and clothing that are typical of the local population and a variety of other things were presented. And the children had much fun!!!! The summer festival was the highlight with various actions that could be performed: Handicraft work, making of African chains Diamond search in a sandpit Water to be worn on the head over a riding course with obstacles Actions like building Eddy´s village with cartons and cloth African food And many other offers like raffle, a bouncy castle, childrens face painting, a lot of food and the presentation of dances and songs built part of the festival. Of course Eddy joint us that day together with Sandra who also has visited his village. Both gave a presentation on Eddy´s village in the cafeteria and they had a lot of information on the registered society “Sonnenblume e.V.” The children were very happy that he visited them! They were enthusiast to meet and see Eddy they had so far only heard about in the last weeks. It was a busy festival that attracted and inspired the many old and young visitors. We are happy to support Eddy´s project with the donation of 600 Euro.
(It was light: 21.07.2011)
(With the help of light in the village, people learn to read and write. After work, they come to our school and are taught by teachers: 21.07.2011.)
(There were trees planted, a special thanks to Elisabeth Tappeiner, who began this special: 21.07.2011)
(the courtyard of the school is always green! 21.07.2011)
“A celebration for Eddy`s Village in Kita-Kreisel Kuerten (kindergarden and day care centre)on 3rd July 2011!“
dear Petra, dear Tanya, dear team of the day care centre “gyro”, dear children and parents and all stakeholders in the beautiful village for the wonderful summer party for Eddy`s Village!
We were very impressed how you organised and prepared this wonderful feast. Your dances, handicrafts and how Africa was placed in the centre of your kindergarten excited us. On our next visit to "Eddy's village," we will tell the children of your commitment and enthusiasm. We are sure the children in Ethiopia will be overwhelmed by your support and donation. A heartfelt thank- you to all the children, teachers, helpers of the beautiful summer festival. Thanks for all the cake, salad, kindness and cash donations. Your help counts.
On behalf of the children die Sonnenblume e.V.
Eddy and Sandra
“Construction of the library for the children has been started! “
(The construction workers are with their tools, their food and water for their drinking spot!)
(The schoolprincipal has taken the wood to build the library of the helpers in reception!)
(The kids are happy that a library is being built for them!)
(The children help with diligent!)
“Donation handover 06.06.2011 “
the outrageous sum of 1292,00 Euro provided by the Paul Kraemer school for the sunflower/SONNENBLUME e.V. A fund raising run that was organised for the “SONNENBLIME” made the donation possible. The money handed over shows Ina Lakermann and Monika Zimmermann (member of the Board of the registered society SONNENBLUME) when they thanked the students for their great engagement on the occasion of the run. Each kilometre run was stamped and some students collected 72 stamps that equal 24 kilometres. The professional trainee Corinna Hilbig had the idea for the project, established the contacts and organized the course. We want to convey the Special thanks of the children from Menjikso Tade to you.
(updated 06.06.2011)
(updated 06.06.2011)
(updated 06.06.2011)
(updated 06.06.2011)
“sponsored run-20.05.2011 “
Oliver and Marcel cannot be stopped. They continue the running track, lap for lap, panting and sweating, while each kilometre is registered on a beer mat The. Paul Kremer School and 130 more students run for children 5000 km away in Ethiopia. The special education school in Frechen near Cologne has launched a "sponsored run" for the Sonnenblume e.V. For every kilometer run the students´ supporters donate a certain amount for Menjikso Tade, the village where the African school is located. And they collect many kilometers - on their feet, in a wheelchair or attended by a supervisor. Meanwhile many pupils know this Erdaw Miko who previously gave a presentation of the work of the Sonnenblume e.V in the assembly hall of the Paul Kremer School. And because they know that the next project of the initiative is a well, the refreshment point of the sponsored run has a symbolic well.
"Hold: Images of Africa for a good cause! “
Dear ladies and gentlemen, the magnificent colors of the East African Ethiopia can be found in a photo exhibition, which will be presented in the NC, Köln Niehl, Ford-operating restaurant. From exciting appetite market scenes of atmospheric from the capital Addis Ababa to scenes of rural life - the picture show covers many aspects of African life. Ford report editor Bruno Voerckel brought with him the photos from a trip to report. Reason: In the Ethiopian village of Menjikso Tade the construction of a school - realized thanks to the support of Ford employees. The contact came about on the Ford employees Erdaw Miko, who supports his Ethiopian home village and is co-founder of the Association "The sunflower e.V.". Voerckel accompanied Erdaw Miko to the opening of the school and transferring donations, documented his "African expedition" and brought with him a variety of impressive motifs of land, people and everyday life. So came about the idea of an image show, again used "the charity": everyone can acquire the already framed motives at moderate prices. "Sunflower e.V." benefit from the proceeds of the exhibition. We want to invite you to a very informal gatherings for the purpose of image show welcome,
and on Monday, the 9 May 2011, at 4.30 P.m. in the NC operating restaurant, Ford-Werke Niehl, Gate 3, Henry Ford Street, 50725 Köln
on behalf of the children from Menjikso Tade greets you Alexander de Montespan
type 1 Chairman sunflower e.V.
“If you have to run 100 miles, it is best to say, that 90 is the first half.“
This old saying explains the situation in Ethiopia fairly well. The children from the little village Menjikso Tade often live miles away from school and have to walk long distances each morning. With the help of the initiative “Die Sonnenblume e.V.” the children have now received sturdy shoes. Nearly 200 children between 7 and 15 years are happy to have new sports shoes with which they can easily walk over the stony paths to their school.
Our biggest activity in the last year was our second visit to Menjikso Tade – our project site. With the donations raised in 2010, we travelled to Ethiopia to buy new schooling supplies and to look at the new school building including the interior. Erdaw Miko, Marcella Müller and Heike Otto as representatives of the initiative travelled at the end of January beginning of February 2011 to Ethiopia.
All the families welcomed us very warmly and with such hospitality that we could not accept all the offers. The village elders and the families came to inspect us and we inspected the new school building and the interior, everything financed by supporters of “Die Sonnenblume e.V.” between 2009 and 2010, organised and paid locally. Everything looks so nice, so nice that even the parents like sending their children to school and the most important thing is the school is very close. The school can now accommodate more children than before and obviously they arrive home early so that they can still help in the fields, which means none of the children need to stay home anymore to work in the fields. It is a great success! The children are happy there. So, many smiling faces came to see what we had brought: donated toys, new books, pens and working materials. The teachers were very surprised when we unpacked boxes of books. Now they have new books and the children can study with the up to date texts.
Our next project concerns the water supply in the region around Menjikso Tade. Sadly, just before we arrived another child died because of the dirty drinking water. Since last year clean water is a humanitarian right of the UNO and according to the WHO and UNICEF not even every second Ethiopian citizen has this. In the village the situation is disastrous. The people take their water from a dirty slum hole and unfortunately it is located directly on a hill. This means, as soon as it rains, and of course during the rain period an enormous amount of rain falls, – mud, dung and garbage go down the hill directly into the waterhole. The government has agreed to do something, but hasn’t specifically said when and a project like this needs time. We want to help quickly so that no child, poor or sick person has to die from dirty water again. In the bigger villages in the area practically every kiosk sells so called water processing tabs. These are small bags with white powder that one can fill into a 20 liter can which subsequently filters the water. Bacteria and germs are destroyed and the water becomes drinkable.
About 700 households, to which the village Menjikso Tade belongs, would need 42.000 Birr to finance one year of clean water, according to the authorities. In Euro that is an amount of 1.900 Euro.
This is doable and we are looking forward to every cent that is donated.
Thank you very much on behalf of the children and their families!
(updated 19.05.2011)
(updated 19.05.2011)
(updated 19.05.2011)
(updated 20.05.2011)
(updated 20.05.2011)
(updated 20.05.2011)
Confirmees from Baden-Baden raise money for "The Sunflower"
Traditionally every year the confirmees of the “Peace Community Baden-Baden” choose one social project to support. This year the youngsters, decided in favour of our project. Marcella Müller, who meanwhile is living again in her hometown Baden-Baden, was able to give the confirmees a personal description of what our project is about. During several sessions it was possible to explain the country, the village, the people, the children, the school and the water supply situation. Conveniently, our stay in Ethiopia was around the same time as the confirmation period and so the youngsters were able to hear and see from recent pictures what their donations are being used for and reflect on the progress that has been made.
During the Confirmation Service on April 3, 2011, which was organised and arranged by the confirmees themselves, our project was introduced to the community. The latest water project was introduced and explained to the congregation, so that everyone knew where their donations in the near future are to be invested in. During the service 145 Euro was raised. A respectable sum due mainly to the efforts of the confirmees and the sum will become even larger, because the collections of the next two services will be donated to our project.
Before we departed to Ethiopa each confirmee created a picture with a sunflower. On our arrival, these were then decorated on the empty walls of the school classroom. The children were very impressed and thrilled that the youth in Germany cares for them. In this way, it has become much clearer to the children where these donations are coming from. It was great!
Many thanks to the confirmees, confirmation authorities and the whole “Peace Community of Baden-Baden”.