I have always considered myself to be a very "normal" person;  A mother, a school teacher.  I dreamed of what it would be like to go to Africa one day, but never really thought I would live out that dream.

On August 5th 2008, my very "normal" life changed forever with the unexpected, sudden death of my only child.  My beautiful, 17 year old daughter, Janessa Marie Rivera.  I was left traumatized and devastated with a feeling of no direction or purpose.  I knew what my choices were and still are.  I could grieve and live in a shell or I could keep Janessa's spirit alive by "doing good" and helping others in her Honor and Loving Memory.  I know God has a plan for me, a new purpose.  I have found that in PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH.  I am blessed to be able to give back and help others less fortunate in my daughter's honor.

I traveled to Kenya for the first time in August of 2009 and spent my daughter's 1 year Anniversary helping others in poor, rural parts of Kenya in Honor of her.  It was a life altering experience for me.  A change that was so profound and beautiful.  I am grateful and thankful for the impact it has made in my life.  My heart grew with a love for all of the beautiful, loving, welcoming people that I met in the villages of Kenya.  And so begins PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH! 

In December of 2009 I made my second Mission.  I worked in four villages.  I was able to supply 80 children with Brand New School Uniforms that includes Shoes, Supply food to over 60 families including widowed elderly and much more!  There is always room for last minute changes when it comes to helping people who are in dire need.

I have now just returned from my third Mission, July 2010. I am pleased to report that PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH brought along its first team member.  We were blessed to be able to supply 57 children Brand New School Uniforms that includes Shoes and food to over 82 families in the four villages that we worked in.  They are: Giakaibei, Ihwagi, Thika, and Mwea.  Five mattresses were purchased for needy people as well as the building of a modest but safe, PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH home!  This home was built in the village of Giakaibei for my very special family of eight.  Blessing ceremonies of both homes took place as well as the baptism of three of my beautiful Kenyan friends!

I would not be able to do this amazing work if it were not for ALL of my friends and family who have been supportive and shown interest in PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH. 

So, you see, YOU don't have to be a wealthy movie star or musician to make a real difference in the lives of others.  You can be "normal" like me, and become rich in the Act of Giving.  The best Gift to receive is that of the Gift of Giving!  If you don't believe me, try it out for yourself. 

If you would like more information or are interested in joining a PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH Mission, please contact me at Info@PJKO.org

PROJECT JANESSA - KENYAN OUTREACH™  501 (C)(3) Non Profit