Educational Projects

TMF’s ongoing commitment to education is accomplished by donating supplies to schools in communities where we are working. Just a few pencils, pens, and tablets make a big difference to children who would otherwise have only scraps of paper on which to write.

Currently our emphasis is on supplying textbooks, reference books, bookshelves, desks, etc. to schools around Balé Mountains National Park in an effort to promote goodwill and respect between the park and surrounding communities. Each school is given a sum of money and, as in-kind contributions, the schools are required to submit plans for activities related to the park. The plans include educating their communities on the value of protecting the resources in the park, reporting persons who illegally graze cattle or cut wood in the park, persuading families to use fuel-efficient stoves, planting indigenous trees, and volunteering to fight fires. One of the most creative is building a museum to give information about the benefits of the park to the next generation – and this is from a school with no road access!

Many of the books teachers purchase are for learning English including dictionaries, and handbooks for punctuation, grammar, and usage. (Becoming fluent in English is important for students entering high school because all subjects are taught in English.) Fortunately, these supplies are readily available in near-by cities so none of the money is spent on shipping from the United States.

Support TMF's Educational Projects
To make a donation online using a credit card, click on "Donate." Or download a donation form (PDF) and mail a check to TMF.