Mario Blanco purchased 100 soccer balls at a local sporting goods store. 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 in South Africa to know that there were people thinking about them – an ocean apart, but connected in love.

Mario gave the soccer balls to those same children that captivated his heart during his first visit to South Africa. Their faces illuminated with joy! Bouncing balls and smiling faces revived Mario. The real gift was given to him. For the first time since he lost Raven, he saw her smile reflected in the bright faces of these South African children. Raven was there.

Why South Africa?