Why Kilimanjaro?

There are a lot of things that make Kilimanjaro unique. It's the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It's summit is the highest point in Africa, and it's one of the seven summits. It's glaciers are part of culture and legend. But like any mountain, you climb it because it's there. It's a challenege to the climber, and also to supporters. $19,341 is a lot of money, and a lot of steps to the top.

I know what you're thinking, "Isn't Kilimanjaro in Africa? I thought you were raising money for El Salvador." While El Salvador is full of many beautiful landscapes and volcanos, its highest peak, Cerro El Pital, tops out at a mere 8,957 ft. She'd have to climb it twice, and she still wouldn't hit her goal!

Why Love & Hope?

After a recent visit to Love & Hope — and inspired by our previous climb — Esther decided to turn her upcoming ascent of Kilimanjaro into a fundraiser. Esther supported our previous climb and has supported many of our fundraisers over the years. Now, she hopes to raise $1 for every foot Kilimanjaro's reaches toward the sky.

While she was in El Salvador, Esther even did a practice climb with some of the kids on Volcan Santa Ana. It was a wet and rainy day, everyone made it to the top!

Love & Hope provides safety, shelter and family to children who would otherwise live life on the margins. For the past 11 years Love & Hope has been working to break the cycles of violence, poverty and abuse in El Salvador. The children of Love & Hope are bright, funny, and full of potential. Esther has gotten to know them all, and wants to help fund their journey toward a bright and successful future.

Why Education?

In a country that spends less than 3% of its GDP on education, private schooling is practically a necessity in El Salvador. A solid education can make the difference between a life of sustenance and a life of success. Your donation will help provide education for the 26 children at Love & Hope Children's Home who attend a variety of private schools chosen to suit the educational needs and styles of each child.

How can I help?

You can help Esther reach our goal of raising $19,371 by making a donation through her page on Razoo. You can also help by spreading the word to all your friends and family. The more folks who hear about our climb, the more money she can raise!

Does the $19,371 go towards covering the cost of the climb?

No. 100% of your donation is directed towards Love & Hope. Esther is covering all costs associated with climbing Kilimanjaro (airfare, equipment, fees, etc) out of her own pocket.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes. All donations are received and receipted by Razoo Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) charity that operates a donor advised fund to fulfill donor advisements. Love & Hope is supported by AME International a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. When you donate to our climb through Razoo, your donation is routed to AME International.

Can I send a check?

Yes. Checks should be made out to "AME International" and can be mailed to:

AME International
PO Box 670631
Northfield, OH 44067

Please put "Love. Hope. Climb." in the memo field so that your donation will be counted towards the cause. Once we receive your check, we will add your donation to the meter at the top of this page.

How long is the climb?

The climb starts on December 6th, with the summit being reached on December 13th. Esther will be taking the Machame Route up the mountain.

What is Razoo?

Razoo is an online platform that allows non-profits to easily create and manage fund raisers.

What if you raise more than $19,371?

Any funds raised above the $19,371 goal will go towards Love & Hope's general operations. This will help cover costs from rent and payroll, to food, water, transportation, and medical expenses. Taking care of 26 children gets expensive!