This fall we’ve introduced a slate of new events and local programs to the Aspen community. From our (now annual) Pickleball tournament to the week-long residency program with our friend and AIA Ambassador Chinobay and his youth troupe Dance of Hope, it’s been wonderful to spend time with old friends and to see so many new faces. We have been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from the Aspen community - thank you to everyone who participated! It’s been a transformative year for AIA and as we roll into the final quarter of 2023 we’re already looking forward to even more fun and even more impact in Nakuwadde!

Dance of Hope Residency

Pickleball Tournament Recap

This is a huge month for our community in Nakuwadde and Aspen. September marks the end of a great summer for AIA. The Labor Day holiday was a wonderful opportunity for our staff to rejuvenate and refocus as our students head back to school for their third and final term of the year. This month, as we say so long to summer, we'll be rolling out a full calendar of events and special programs that we'll be offering to our friends and family in Colorado this fall.

The first annual Action in Africa and RECESS pickleball tournament is happening in Aspen, Colorado on September 16th. The $500 entry fee covers team registration, an exclusive AIA and partners' merchandise swag bag, 2 drink and meal tickets, along with two additional general admission tickets for friends and family to watch the competition and join the other activities. All the money raised will support Action in Africa's commitment to providing opportunities for kids in Uganda to get outside, move, and play. Tuzannye - Let's play!

Making quality education accessible for all of Uganda’s women and children is no small task, but AIA has the best partners to help guide our journey. We work intimately with the parents, students, local leaders, and most importantly educators throughout the Wakiso District, to understand each school community’s unique needs and connect them with essential resources, tools, and training.

Last week, the Primary Five AIA Scholars participated in our end-of-term Quiz Bowl. Students from our partner schools and community members across Nakuwadde came to The Center to watch our scholars compete for the prized Center Cup. 

I've been so eager to share all the details from my recent trip to Uganda! Our Aspen High School students and I just returned from a nine-day immersion trip in Nakuwadde. I can’t thank you all enough for helping us provide our AHS students with this opportunity for cultural exchange and education. It was a trip like this that inspired me to start the AIA Club chapter when I made my first visit to Uganda 15 years ago. What we’ve accomplished since then is beyond my wildest dreams. It’s been amazing to watch the club, AIA, and the Center grow together.