Arlington Academy of Hope Reception

On April 4, 2008, the Arlington Academy of Hope held a reception at the Hussey household in Virginia. The purpose of the reception was to thank the many donors and benefactors. Moreover, there was a ceremony where AAH received a $5,000 grant from the Million Dollar Round Table Foundation. The MDRT Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Million Dollar Round Table, which is a premier association of financial professionals. The MDRT Foundation grant will support one year of secondary education scholarships for the graduates of the AAH Primary school.

I volunteered eight hours for this event along with two other American University students. When we arrived, we helped with the set up and preparation. We arranged the fruit, cheese, and crackers. We also placed the hors d'ourves on various trays. These appetizers were actually prepared by Joyce Wanda, the wife of AAH's founder. The appetizers consisted of a various Ugandan delicacies like samossas and mandazis. When the guests arrived, I helped greet everyone. There was about fifty people in attendance. We all rotated the responsibilities. Sometimes, I mingled with the guests and served food, and other times I tended the bar.
There was red and white South African wine, as well as Ugandan sherry. The most popular drink of the night was the Ugandan martini which was made with Uganda waragi. Waragi is a strong, spicy banana gin.

Throughout the night, Daniel S. Ssuuna performed his amazing music. Ssuuna is a dancer, percussionist, singer, songwriter, storyteller, and recording artist from Uganda. His music has a strong following. His cd, "Voices of War" can be purchased at his website or his myspace.
According to Ssuuna, "The Spirit of Africa is here to keep love in action. "

Overall, this event was an amazing experience. It was great opportunity to meet the founders of the organization, as well as the many board members and volunteers.