Tostan

There is going to be a revision in my giving strategy . . . trying to give every day is going to be a challenge on a number of fronts. That said, I still intend to give the same amount, but I will do it in a more consolidated fashion. Not sure what that means, I am going to work it out as I go . . . I am sure it will be a great adventure for this upcoming year.

Tostan - that is the charity I am using to kick off this year. I have been reading a book Half the Sky, and there is a piece in the book that talks about Tostan. They are making huge inroads in West Africa around women's health and women's issues. Specifically, they have made a significant impact in reducing FGM (female genital mutilation) in the region. They have been recognized by the UN for their contribution, and the program is being rolled out in East Africa. It is local - there are only 3 Western staff members, everyone else is African (I am a big believer in Africa for Africans). The model is very interesting, a worthy cause.

Here is a link to the organization: http://www.tostan.org/. Please check them out!