Jean Dobbs, CEO African Reflections Foundations, welcoming guests at the "Wells For Life GALA"

Jean who visited Tanzania in November 2007, has been fighting for the cause of water for rural women in Tanzania. Jean witnessed women walking for miles carrying 40 liters of water on their head, often at risk of being rapped or attacked by wild animals.  She has pledged to build as many wells to help women not only to get clean drinking water, but to have enough water for their household as well as to do small scale farming for a sustainable income.

African Reflections Foundation “WELLS FOR LIFE” Gala a BIG SUCCESS!

     On November 30th,2007 African Reflections celebrated with a gala held at the New York State Museum, to honor our financial contributors, supporters, and volunteers. It was a truly cultural evening in every sense of the word, as guests at this well-attended event enjoyed dinner, traditional drumming and dance, and the amazing art which helped to raise funds in our silent auction. 

     This served as a setting for the real heart of the gala: the mission of the African Reflections Foundation, and the people who have helped us to make strides in accomplishing it. This was poignantly illustrated by photos and videos of the people of Tanzania, whoes lives have been enriched not only by the building of wells and schools, but, more importantly, by having been empowered to make their own lives better.

     However, Maria Pool, founder and driving force of the African Reflections Foundation, reminds us often that, it is more than a cliche to say that “to give is to receive”. This was clearly made evident by our honored speakers, who provided motivation and encouragement, as well as some first-hand testimonies of how their lives  have been enriched by the people of Tanzania. 

     Our gratitude goes out to many, but we would especially like to thank the following for their participation and support in this very special event:  Elaine Houston, TV news personality, writer, and activist, who hosted the gala ,and who, herself, was part of our 2007 trip  to Tanzania; Dr. Mark Sullivan, president of the College of St. Rose; Commissioner John Eagan; Anne Pope, president of the Albany branch of the NAACP, who was the keynote speaker for the gala; and Nafeesa Janmohamed, sister and business partner of our founder, who flew all the way from Tanzania to attend the gala, and who donated a very generous $15,000 to the foundation.

Finally, we are proud to announce that, with your help, we were able to raise $21,000, after expenses, to continue our important work ... and with your continued support, however great or small, we will continue to grow!

     Asante sana - Thank you so much! 

Our supporters, our patrons who have been supporting over the years, mostly from the Empire State Plaza.

Stephen Archer, Board Member, dressed in ethnic masaai clothing

Friends and supporters turned out in big numbers to support the cause. We thank all those who came to support and helped us raise funds for the building of at least ten wells in Kisele village, Mkuranga District, Tanzania.