The Genesis of an Idea

‘Que Dios se lo pague'

When I was in El Salvador with World Vision, I heard this expression over and over again- an expression that motivated me to provide others with the same opportunities that I had been given, and the genesis of this project was created.

“God will repay you”

The expression means God will repay you. I heard this from many we met whom we had supported in some way, like finding a sponsor for their child or helping them build a new home. They would say this because they had nothing to give in return for the gifts we had brought. When I heard this my immediate response was, “God has already repaid me because I have been given the opportunity to make a difference in your life.” 

A little goes a long way

During my El Salvador trip and more recently my experiences in Rwanda and Uganda, I had considered my contribution to be small; however it was anything but small to them. People were moved to tears because a stranger had cared enough to come and gave hope for the future of their families and their communities. It was at that time I realized exactly what I had done. I wanted to continue to so this and give others the opportunity to do the same.

My Vision

My hope is that this organization will provide an opportunity for Canadians to experience what I experienced; to make a profound difference in the lives of others by giving some of what we have, whether it is our time, money or skills. The focus will be on community-based initiatives in areas where help is most needed and where it will make the most difference in moving communities out of poverty into self-sufficiency. Education will be an underlying theme as education is a powerful tool for creating a world where anything is possible.

From Me to Us

My experiences have led me to take my dream and turn it into other people’s reality. Creating the INSPIRE!africa foundation in Canada will allow others to be a part of my dream, which is no longer just mine, but ours. As well, the reality will be a charitable foundation that will provide years of support, education, and self sufficiency to those who will benefit the most.

The next step….

Is to get this idea off the ground, and with your contributions of whatever you have to give- our dream will become reality.

Margaret McQuiston

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