Founding Members: Jeff Rolheiser, Dave Horrocks, Cathi Day, Dean Day, Cal Wilson & Sharon Wilson

Mission Statement: "To connect Canadian schools with schools in Africa for the purpose of providing educational tools and support."

Project Description: FACES links schools in Canada and Africa to facilitate relationships, provide educational tools and other identified needs, and to create opportunities to exchange ideas, and promote cultural understanding.

FACES promotes learning about other cultures and people on a personal level. Our goal is to increase the comfort level and use of technology (computers, internet, website) in African partner schools and create an opportunity for kids in Canada and Africa to communicate with each other.

The fundraising aspect of the project is secondary and is directed at educational tools, environment and school supplies. Fundraising is at the discretion of each school involved.

FACES has connected 4 schools in Calgary (Hawkwood School, Varsity Acres School, Fairview School and Scenic Acres School) with 4 schools in Meru, Kenya.

Our team travelled to Kenya in March 2009 to film the participating schools and interview some of the staff and children at these schools to share with the children here in Calgary.

Banners have been created and exchanged between partner schools and the kids have taken part in exchanging memory books, "Day in the Life" videos, pen pal letters, and more recently – emails.

The schools in Africa have received donated laptop computers, modems and in some cases solar power packs to allow them to stay in touch with their partner schools in Calgary using FACES email addresses. FACES is further developing it’s website to share pictures, messages and updates on special events at the participating schools. In cooperation with the Mary A. Tidlund Charitable Foundation, FACES is dedicated to the advancement of education, care and welfare of children.