On November 1, the Danforth Center welcomed Richard and Susan Kiphart for the final program in the 2007 Conversations Series. The special “Close-Up” Conversations format provided an intimate opportunity for the for the Kipharts to speak about their involvement and work in Africa. No strangers to
philanthropy, the two have led civic and charitable projects in the Chicago area for years; however, since 2004 their efforts have taken on a new and somewhat unexpected focus.

Susie shared how she and Dick became involved in the construction of wells of Ghana. With members of the Kenilworth Union Church where she is Director of Children’s Ministries, Susan began to raise and direct funds
towards small, profoundly impoverished towns in Ghana. In three short years their efforts have lead to the construction of 34 wells.

Dick, who also serves on the board of DATA (Debt AIDS Trade Africa), an advocacy organization started by Bono and others, noted that an African leader once told him that the best way to help Africa was to educate African girls and women. Building wells is one way to achieve this; once wells are built, schools usually follow since children – girls, in particular – no longer need to spend their days hauling water from distant sites.

Although modest about their accomplishments, the Kipharts understand that advocacy and direct action are both important tools for change. As Susie puts it, “We can’t save all of Africa, but we are trying to do what we can do. If you make up your mind to do something – if you make it a priority – you can’t imagine the good you can do.”

Story excerpted from the November 2007 issue of The Leaflet, the Danforth Center's quarterly publication for partners, friends, and supporters