28 May 2006

*Note: This modified logo is only intended for the purpose of parody.

**** Chai-Bucks ****

On the side of a hot dusty road stands a tiny structure with 3 walls and a tin roof. Passing by the little stall you may not think it is much, however, during mid morning and afternoon this modest stall is transformed. Crowds of people squeeze to get in front to satisfy the twice daily tradition of tea. It is not Starbucks but the woman inside smiles as she serves them tea (aka. chai). She is proud that she owns her own business. This was something she never thought possible. She is now able to send her children to school and save for her daughters wedding.

What did it take to start her own business? Advice from our partner organization, 20 women from her village and a bank account. With the help of our partner organization, 20 women in her village formed a self help group. In the beginning they contributed 50 Rupees (about one US dollar) each month to start a bank account. After one year they were able to get a loan. They voted on who would get the loan and she was the first one to receive a loan of 900 Rupees ($20 dollars) just enough to start her own business.

She began by sitting on the side of the road and selling tea. Over time the business grew and she now has her own stall. She was able to pay off the loan quickly. The other women in the group have benefited as well. Some have taken loans to pay for medical bills for a sick child, school fees or to start their own business. These women have been empowered by the One who created them in His image. These women have never been told that they have any value or that they can accomplish anything to improve their families. They have little or no education and barely enough money to feed their family. They now know that there is someone who loves them and values them. Through Him they are empowered to change the living conditions of their families not only presently but eternally.

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GET TO KNOW OUR “VILLAGE” ASSOCIATES
Did you know?...
Kristin balances our group with her medical training and medical consulting for our partner organization. LaVonne hopes to team up with Kristin occasionally when working with the DEC children.

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The monsoon rains have arrived early (see our current weather on bottom of our website updated hourly). Josiah and Emily have finished summer camp and LaVonne will begin teaching DEC teachers in Personality Development and English in mid June. Brian has hired a new programmer to replace one who left.

Please remember:

• LaVonne as she prepares to teach.
• Thankful for the kid's safe and enjoyable summer camp.
• Our financial needs.

Until All Have Heard,
Brian, LaVonne, Josiah, Emily, Noah

You may donate online www.buhlers.net/donate.php