In November 2007, I had the opportunity to visit Burkina Faso, West Africa to help with CareForce International’s Village of Hope. During my time there as I helped with the construction projects in the Village of Hope, I began to see that many of the equipment and tools in the village were in desperate need of repair and maintenance, including diesel generators, mopeds, motorcycles, a bulldozer, tractor, and numerous other items.

These repairs presented specific challenges as the local parts store is not just down the street. Often times, pieces had to be fabricated or reworked and repaired to bring the equipment back to life. It was a truly amazing experience, and it made me think outside the box to complete the task at hand, including engaging the children of the village to help at times. They would hold a wrench, swing a hammer, or sand a surface to prepare for installation.

Out of this experience came the realization that the children have a true desire to learn, but needed the resources and training to provide that opportunity. After brainstorming ideas at the Village of Hope, a concept called “Auto Repair Shop-In-A-Box” was born. Click here to learn more about Auto Repair Shop-in-a-Box.

This month, Canadian Technician interviewed me and published an article about Auto Repair Shop-in-a-Box. You can read the full article by going to this link: http://www.canadiantechnician.com/features.cfm?intDocID=2969

We need lots of help with this program, in particular donations of equipment and tools that you may have laying somewhere collecting dust. We are asking that the used tools and equipment that is donated be in good working order. My staff and I are willing to make minor repairs, but please be sure that the equipment works. So, if you are upgrading and looking for a home for your old equipment; if you are done with that older battery charger, or tester, or balancer, or whatever it is that’s collecting dust in the corner, there is a use for it that will make a huge difference in the lives of those children.

Please contact me if you have any questions about this program or would like to help or send donations.

Thank you,
Glenn

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