Suman’s Climb for a Cause
Dear Friends,
I am undertaking two huge challenges. One is to conquer the summit of the world’s highest free-standing mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, the roof of Africa. The other challenge is to raise money for a project in Mali. The Pittsburgh Chapter of Engineers Without Borders is committed to implementing sustainable engineering projects at the same time developing internationally responsible engineers and students. Engineers Without Borders believes in the concept of Engineering with a heart, where we strive to improve the quality of life around the world, one community at a time. We volunteer to help with the design and implementation of low-cost, high-impact engineering projects that range from providing drinking water to bringing electricity to remote villages. It is not an option anymore, but our obligation as an engineer is to help people access these basic needs.
I am helping mentor the student chapter of University fo Pittsburgh that is currently involved in a project in Makili, Mali. Crops have failed for several years due to severe droughts. People of Makili have been fighting hunger on a daily basis. We are striving to build a fish farm and create micro-business opportunities for the people of Makili so they will have a constant supply of food. Through this fish farming project, we hope they can regain their self-sufficiency, dignity, and security.
The project is expected to cost $30,000.
I will start my ascent on Mount Kilimanjaro (19,350 feet) on February 10, 2008. I am taking the Machame route, which involves seven days of grueling hiking on the mountain.
My goal is to raise at least $5,000 from this climb for the people of Makili. If 500 wonderful individuals donate $10, you can help me reach the goal! Please be generous in your support. Contributions will only go towards the project – my trip is fully self-funded. I hope you’ll agree this is a worthwhile cause! If I do not reach the summit, I promise to donate $1 for every 40 feet that I am short from reaching the top.
Corporate Sponsors Levels
Silver = $ 200 (a penny for every foot to the top)
Gold = $1,000 (a nickel for every foot to the top)
Platinum = $2,000 (a dime for every foot to the top)
In return for your generous support, you will receive recognition of support and listing of company name, logo, and link to your website on the EWB-PPC website (ww.ewb-pitt.org) until project completion.
A Platinum sponsorship will also receive a photo of me with your company’s t-shirt/banner on top of Mount Kilimanjaro for your corporate newsletters!
Donate
All donations go directly to Engineers Without Borders. Donating here is simple, fast, and totally secure. Click here. Be sure to specify ‘Pittsburgh Professional Chapter’ to ensure your money will reach us.
I will keep you updated on Mali and the climbing of Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for reading, cheering, and for your support!
Update: Thanks to all who have supported this cause. I am more confident now.
Sincerely,
Suman Ramasundaram, P.E.
President, Engineers Without Borders (Pittsburgh Professional Chapter)
president@ewb-pitt.org
