I’m returning to some roots today with this blog post. Shortly after starting this blog in March, 2009 I decided I wanted to focus on opportunities to “make a difference”. Today I write about an event in El Dorado, Kansas that will take place from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. December 29 and 30, 2009. The objective is to pack 285,125 meals for hungry children in Haiti. Numana, Incorporated, the organization behind this effort is hoping for enough meals to fill a 40 foot shipping container. Headed by President and CEO, Rick McNary, Numana, an international hunger relief organization, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity founded in August, 2008. The meals we pack in El Dorado will be distributed by the Salvation Army to feed children in Haitian schools.

The meals contain soy protein, freeze-dried veggies, rice and a vitamin/mineral supplement targeted to the immune systems of malnourished children. Ingredients are measured, weighed, sealed, boxed and prepared for shipment.

My daughter Alyssa and I went to a practice packing event several weeks ago and we had a blast! We worked alongside volunteers from age 8 to 80. The environment was light hearted, positive, supportive, and fun for all ages. There’s nothing like hanging out with people energized about making a difference, especially at this time of year!

So, if you have time to give (you can sign up for two hour shifts or stay longer), My daughter Alyssa, my son Stefan, some of my Wichita State University students and I be there full time both days; if you would like to purchase some meals (we currently have donations to cover 152,500 meals ((about 53% of our goal))at 30 cents per meal), or if you just want to learn more about Numana, visit their website at: http://www.numanainc.com or call Rick McNary at (877)452-5445 for more information. To volunteer, click on the volunteer button at the top of the home page. To donate, click on the donate button.

Want to spread the cheer of the season to hungry children in Haiti? Bring your family, friends, youth group, church group, office mates, etc. and join us in this high energy, “make a difference” event!