By Wendy Wilkinson
“Yermande” means compassion … and is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting environmental and economic sustainability in the Republic of Senegal by supporting community based reforestation, clean water and economic development projects.
On Sunday, Nov. 14, the historic Red Crags Arts and Agricultural House in Manitou Springs is hosting a fundraiser to support the work of Yermande and two special needs; to raise funds to help the children of a rural village in Senegal to purchase their school supplies this year; and, to repair the village well that has gone dry.
Join Dallo Fall, a Yermande co-founder, and the Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts for a fundraiser in the spirit of yermande. Guests will experience traditional Senegalese food including fataya, empanada-style street food, African drummers, singing and dancing, to support Fall in her mission of compassion.
“I hope that Yermande will grow strong so that we can help the village youth develop ways to stay in the village, instead of leaving for the big cities,” said co-founder Jabril Fall.
“Yermande’s projects are a way to help make a positive change in the lives of African people.”
All funds raised will go directly to Yermande Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Information: www.yermande.com.
IF YOU GO
The Yermande Senegalese Fundraiser takes place 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14. Red Crags Arts and Agriculture House, 302 El Paso Blvd. Tickets are $35.