From US With Love
Beginnings
In 2007 From Jacksonville With Love co-founder Michael Smith decided to expand disaster relief efforts beyond the borders of the United States. From Us, With Love (FUWL) is the non-profit organization that grew from that vision. As part of the South Africa Initiative, FUWL is working closely with other organizations serving the needs of the townships in order to provide the most effective aid possible.
Coordinating efforts with these organizations helps to ensure that donated items are useful and get into the right hands. Gill Thomas and Taryn Aveley, our organization’s representatives in South Africa, are supplying ongoing assessment of needs and collaborating locally to provide the greatest good for the greatest number of people.
Operations Manager, Mike Mastrocinque, travels to South Africa frequently, meeting with service organization representatives, visiting daycare/preschools (known as crèches), and getting to know the people of the townships of South Africa. Mike’s visit in July, 2007 marked the official inauguration of From Us, With Love’s presence in South Africa. The real work has begun. (See Projects for what we are doing!)