Why South Africa?

Mario, Raven’s father, watched his world crumble after the death of his first born child. He left living, lost somewhere in the limbo of grief. He could not move in the fog. For a little over a year, Mario spent his day’s sitting by his daughter’s grave site and writing to Raven on her website every day. One day, love and chance gave Mario the strength to pick himself up.

A new venture promised awakening. Mario invested in a piece of land in South Africa, determined to rise again. While visiting the property and touring the area, Mario encountered children scattered in the streets, dressed in tattered clothing and kicking up sand. This picture stayed with Mario. Planning for his next excursion incited him to purchase 100 soccer balls at the local sporting goods store. The mission began: Mario passed the balls around to his family, friends, and neighbors, asking everyone to add a little something to the circular canvas. Autographs, quotes, drawings, and messages of hope adorned the balls. Mario wanted the children to know that there were people thinking about them – an ocean apart, but connected in love. Click here to continue reading.