By Aita Diakhate (YES 2010-2011, Senegal, hosted by AYUSA in Lowell, Massachusetts).

Empowered by the knowledge that education is key to success, and conscious of how essential school supplies are to a prosperous education, YES alumni in Senegal decided to conduct a donation drive called "School Supplies for All".

The drive was organized specifically to benefit 110 students who attend the elementary school of Goree Island, a place that is very important in the history of Senegal. The school was founded in 1905.  These students had not received any school supplies from the state or local government since last year.  

For one month, YES alumni collected supplies. They were able to purchase enough copybooks and pens for each student with the help of American Councils and the YES programs. 

On November 14, in celebration of International Education Week, YES alumni, American Councils staff, and local partners delivered the supplies to the school.

The event was a success and the students were very happy. The director thanked us and is looking forward to further collaborations with YES alumni, which may include English classes and tree planting. Alumni are looking forward to planning similar events for other schools.