November 2010

So far not too much has changed since September in  regards to the trip. I have been sending out support letters and emails, and my mom started a Facebook group. Several people have decided to save their change to put towards my trip, which I greatly appreciate. If anyone else has anymore fund raising ideas let me know, I would be very thankful.

Cross Cultural Solutions has been sending me information about their institution as well as Ghana to get me familiar with the program, language, and culture of the Hohoe region so I will be prepared when I arrive. I have also been doing some research on my own.

At this point, I'm just waiting. I still have several months before I leave and there's not too much going on, I'm just getting vaccines and working on my passport.

As more continues to develop I will post another update.

Thank you for your support

September 2010 The Beginning of my Journey

A few days ago I decided to look for an internship for the summer to gain field experience in Economic Development/ Political Science. I thought I was going to end up having to do an office- type job, but then I stumbled upon a program with Cross Cultural Solutions. This  is similar to a mini stint in the Peace Corps. The students will be working with the locals and there will be academics intertwined in the program. At the end of our stay each student will have to give a presentation. After researching all of my different options for countries to go to I decided to choose Ghana. Ghana is a small country in western sub Sahara Africa. It is one of the more economically sound countries in Africa, but there is still inflation and depreciation of the Cedi (unit of currency) due to past governments. I chose Ghana because of the need there is for vocational training, basic education, the fact that I will be able to learn from their stable political system, and because of the culture and diversity within the country.

  At this point it's all a little overwhelming. I have to raise about $6500 for the trip and another $2000 for my plane ticket, I have to get my passport, visa, and all my shots. Any prayers or donations are very much appreciated. If you wish to donate, type in  this link:
https://my.crossculturalsolutions.org/sponsor/sponsorsearchpage.aspx
 There are two Bethany Hackers, but they are both me so you can click on either of them.

I can't put into words how excited I am for this trip. I have been wanting to do something like this for a while now, but haven't had the opportunity yet. God has put service on my heart for many years now, I feel like that is what I am called to do. The program I am in is not specifically Christian, but I plan on showing the love of God in any way I can while I am there. I know through this trip I will grow so much as a person and I can't wait to see what God has in store for me.