Pennies For Peace

Pennies for Peace is an organization created by Greg Mortenson in a struggle to help Afghanistan children get an education. He had gotten hurt after his failed attempt of climbing K2, and was very ill. He stumbled into a small village called Korphe, where there were people misinformed about the outside world. You see, they were cut off by a large gap in between two cliffs. The only way they could get there was dangerous, very dangerous. So, Mortenson decided to help them out.

Korphe was a small village, poor too. They couldn't afford a year-round teacher, and so the children were only allowed an education two days out of the week. It sounds like paradise, huh? Well, it wasn't. Without an education they couldn't read or become something more than a farmer, or farmer's wife. The women were stuck at home in order to prepare meals and other superficial things. They weren't allowed to do a man's work. But these women in Korphe wanted something more. They wanted to become teachers, doctors, etc. Something that could help them become more.

That's what Pennies For Peace is about. It's about helping children get an education and fulfilling dreams. It's run by the Central Asia Institute, and even you can help out. All they're asking for is small, unwanted change. I mean, in America what could a penny get you? One little tootsie roll at the local candy shop? Maybe? Well, in Afghanistan a penny could get them one writing utensil, where they're similar to a dollar here. Heck, fifteen cents can get them eraser. Just imagine what six hundred dollars could get them!! A teacher for a whole year, where teachers' salaries are way more here! Pennies for Peace is a way to help someone create a dream, finish that dream.

Pennies for Peace isn't something that you're required to do, but something that you should do just because you're human. Those children in Afghanistan need the support to become great! If you decide you don't want to help, don't let it be because they're Muslim! Not all Muslims are terrorists and that stereotype is getting quite old. These children are our future. If we show them kindness, then one of them could be the next leader of Afghanistan, and create a newer bond with us.

For more information please visit www.penniesforpeace.org. Or check out the book Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and see the struggle Mortenson went through to be a decent human being! Then, find a way to get involved!