By Katie Munday | Fashion Editor

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Imagine going to school without having access to basic materials, such as textbooks, pencils, or erasers. Kids in third world countries deal with this problem every single day.

Sophomores Nuhamin Demeku and Genesis Dyson have decided to something about this epidemic by organizing a fundraiser to donate school supplies, money, and other essentials to Ethiopia, Haiti, Nicaragua, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.

“I started this project because I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for America’s education system. I wouldn’t be given the same opportunities if I lived in one of the several countries [Genesis and I] are going to,” Demeku said.

Though started as two separate projects, Demeku and Dyson decided to join forces to help an even greater amount of underprivileged children and their families. They plan to travel over the summer to deliver the donations.

“Two years ago, I went to Nicaragua on a mission trip, and I spent a lot of time there. It was just mesmerizing to me how much need they had, and I wanted to do something to help,” Dyson said.

Demeku, who immigrated to America from Ethiopia, said she has always had a special place in her heart for those in need.

“I could have easily been one of those kids in Ethiopia with big dreams but not enough materials to fulfill those dreams,” said Demeku. “But here I am, living the ‘American Dream’.”

Senior Sarah Nawar, founder and president of UNICEF club at the high school, said they are trying to get the whole student body, as well as those in the community, involved.

“We’re partnering with Rotary and Interact to help collect the books [for the book drive],” Nawar said. “We’re also publicizing around the school so students can bring stuff in to donate.”

According to Dyson, they are considering holding a competition between SRT classes to collect school supplies and books in order to maximize student involvement. The SRT class competition has not yet been approved.

“There will be a prize, donated by one of our sponsors [in the community]. I’ve seen it, and it’s really cool, so make sure to participate,” Dyson said.

According to Dyson and Nuhamin, this year-round fundraiser will change the world for the better, and allow kids in other countries to pursue their dreams.

“I will forever be grateful for all the opportunities America has given me, but I can never stop thinking about the rest of my family and others not in my family that are still in Ethiopia, that are still lacking the materials needed for a successful learning experience,” Demeku said.

Contact the organizers at athohindiana@gmail.com, nuhamin.demeku@gmail.com, or (317)728-8270 with club or community involvement, questions, or ideas. T-shirts to raise money will be on sale during the month of October, and will cost 18 dollars.