One day at church I felt a calling or a nudge that God wanted me to serve in a different way. I looked through my church’s opportunities and as soon as I saw Kenya I felt a wash of joy flood over me. I applied that day and was overjoyed to hear shortly back that I had been accepted to go. Our church gave us the book "If You Really Want To Help" and from there I fell in love with what 410 was doing for the people of Kenya, especially after reading the story of Chris in Kahuria.

Our partnership with Kiu community started way back in 2009 making it one of the first communities to partner with the 410 Bridge since its inception in Kenya in 2006. At the 410 Bridge, we work through the community leaders who ensure continuity of the community’s development even after graduation. During our partnership journey, we walk alongside indigenous community leaders and church leaders as they mobilize and unify the community to participate in their own development – shifting their perspectives and owning the solutions.

I have just one word, to sum up my experiences and time in Kenya...AMAZING!! This has truly been a phenomenal trip!It started with our very first training session to our goodbyes at the airport when we arrived back home. God had His hands on the team the whole time. There were no incidents, conflicts, or disagreements. We truly enjoyed spending time together and working as a team. It was an honor serving with every one of my teammates, whom I now consider family.

410 Day – happening on April 10th - is an annual fundraising day for our 410 Bridge community to celebrate and continue making a difference in the countries we work in.Leading up to the day, there are four things you can do to help make this day a success:

Happening on April 10th each year, 410 Day is an annual day of generous giving for our 410 Bridge community. We take this day each year to celebrate and propel positive change in the countries we work in.This year, we’re coming together to create lasting and sustainable economic impact for families in Kenya and Guatemala.We’re raising $41,000 for Kenya and $41,000 for Guatemala which will support our vital economic development programs in each country.

Meet Manacesi Lopez Garcia de Herrera, a 34-year-old resident of Rancho Viejo, Guatemala who recently shared her story with one of our team members.She is the mother of three children - Kimberly, 17 years old, Ashly, 12 years old, and Dilmar, five years old. Her love for them serves as the driving force in her life. She recently became a member of 410 Bridge's Savings Group Program along with other women in her community.

As the holiday season approaches, our hearts turn towards gratitude and the spirit of giving. One remarkable day that embodies this is Giving Tuesday, a global movement that encourages people to come together and support charitable organizations making a positive impact.

As we look back on this year, we are proud to remember how the community of Kiu, Kenya recently graduated from their partnership with 410 Bridge!