The Love for Luanda 2007 Holiday Campaign has drawn to a close, boasting a fundraising total of more than $30,000. The final figure exceeds EDG’s original $25,000 goal for this year's campaign by more than $5,000. Contributions from employees, friends and clients totaling over $15,000, coupled with EDG's matching donation, made this charitable milestone possible. The campaign is a company-wide effort, with all EDG offices cooperating to help make the holiday season brighter for the children of the Mulemba Association orphanage in Angola.
EDG's employees in Luanda began donating much-needed supplies to the orphanage shortly after opening an office in the West African seaport in 2001. Almost immediately, U.S.-based EDG employees expressed an interest in helping their colleagues in Luanda ease some of the orphanage’s financial burden. From these informal initial efforts has grown a more formal sponsorship of the orphanage, with EDG taking an active part in making life better for the children of the Mulemba Association.
"Given EDG's caring culture, it was really no surprise that local employees would find a way to contribute so quickly to the people of Luanda," said Greg Schulte, project manager at EDG. "It started with simple things like soccer balls, tennis shoes and other basic items. Then the U.S. employees found out and clients got involved, and here we are six years later making a major impact on these children's lives."
Love for Luanda was launched last year as a way for EDG employees to raise additional funds that would be earmarked specifically for providing holiday gifts and treats for the children. The monies raised through the Love for Luanda campaign enable EDG to offer the children something at holiday time, besides the staples of food, clothing and educational supplies usually donated.
Last year, the total amount raised as a result of donations and company matching exceeded $19,000. The money was used to purchase 60 bicycles, one for each of the children. For logistical reasons and to support the local economy, the bicycles were purchased from area Luandan businesses. Funds not used to acquire the bicycles were used to repair the water system for the orphanage, and to buy books, computers and other equipment and necessities.
"Participating in this campaign is an incredible experience," Schulte continued. "And it shows the depth of character of our organization and our commitment to Angola."
back to press releases & articles