Karimu founders Don Stoll and Marianne Kent-Stoll first visited Dareda Kati (Tanzania) in 2007 as tourists because they were curious about life in an African village. They were welcomed by the whole community and invited to come back. Shocked by some of the challenges facing the villagers they felt obligated to return. A shallow hole in the ground was serving as the only toilet for the entire student body, and the Tanzanian government had threatened to close the school. Don and Marianne donated $500 to finish construction of half a dozen toilets for which the villagers had run out of funds, and the school stayed open. Back in California, Don and Marianne founded the nonprofit Karimu International Help Foundation in 2008. The Swahili word karimu, meaning “generous” and “welcoming,” aptly describes Dareda’s people. To this day, Karimu has made a huge impact in the community. 30% reduction of stomach related diseases in school-age children 4 hours per day of girls time saved by not having to fetch water, now availabe for education 50% increase in doctor visits by children below 5 years 80% more women returning for pregnancy check ups 96% increase in pass rate for the Secondary School National Exam 22% more people receiving vaccinations Karimu seeks solutions to the manifold interconnected problems of the poor. That awareness came in the beginning, as it continues to do so today, from the villagers themselves. Karimu’s first principle has always been to listen to the villagers. No matter how big Karimu grows, however, we will remember that our work began with the simple acts of making friends and fixing a toilet. We intend to continue to do small things with meticulous care. Visit our website to learn more.