Dedicated to the humanitarian removal of landmines in war-torn countries
Upcoming Events:
2008 Freedom Fields USA event in Tehama (from right: Cindy McCain, John McCain, Clint Eastwood, Dina Eastwood)
Past Events:
from left: Kara Bue (FFUSA member), Andrew Shapiro (the Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs), Mia Hamwey (FFUSA member), Marta Karpiel (FFUSA member)
Kara Bue and Mia Hamwey (FFUSA members) on Capirtal Hill awaiting for meeting with Congressman Sam Farr
Mia Hamwey (FFUSA members), Neel (our dedicated driver), Marta Karpiel (FFUSA board member)
Trip to Washington D.C. April 13-16, 2010
Freedom Fields USA (FFUSA) board members took to the road last week to spend Spring Break in Washington, D.C. Rather than tour monuments, they spent their time visiting officials at the Department of State and elsewhere to highlight the group's ongoing projects in Cambodia and to gather support for FFUSA's next big fundraiser to take place at Tehama Golf Club on December 3.
At the Department of State, FFUSA members met with the Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs, Andrew Shapiro, and his staff who are directly responsible for the United States' humanitarian demining program. They were pleased with FFUSA's continuing efforts in Cambodia and encouraged the group to apply for another matching grant. FFUSA members also met with Deputy Special Representative, Kris Balderston, in the newly established Office of Global Partnerships (OGP), a signature effort by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to encourage public-private partnerships in tackling global issues. As a by-product of a similar partnerships effort on mine action, FFUSA serves as a great example of what can be accomplished by private citizens in partnership with the U.S. government. OGP was interested in FFUSA's programs and pledged to assist it in gaining support for the December event.
FFUSA members were also greeted by their Congressman, Sam Farr, who was delighted to learn about his constituents' good work. He, too, welcomed the group's efforts and offered his help in raising awareness of the global landmine crisis and FFUSA's efforts to support demining projects abroad. Perhaps most touching was the tremendous gratitude shown by Cambodia's Ambassador to the U.S., Heng Hem, in FFUSA's meeting with him. He was touched by the generosity of Freedom Fields' donors and was thankful for Freedom Fields' continued efforts to bring Cambodia to its cherished goal of being "mine safe."
With the encouragement received from official Washington, Freedom Fields members are re-energized in their work and committed more than ever to make their December event a success.
Veronica Alexander (FFUSA board member) speaking at the Rotary Club of Monterey.
Veronica Alexander and Marta Karpiel (FFUSA board members) at Rotary Club of Monterey on April 18, 2010
Rotary Club of Monterey, February 18, 2010
Freedom Fields USA boards members gave a presentation to the Rotary Club of Monterey on February 18th, 2010 at the Hyatt Hotel in Monterey. The presentation included a slideshow detailing landmine removal and its impact on the lives it affects. Removing the landmines is the first step for changing lives for the better as it makes way for building new schools, water wells, and making land available for farming and agriculture. The presentation was received with much enthusiasm adding support to our cause.
Holiday Gathering - December 5th, 2009
Freedom Fields USA held its Holiday Gathering and Gift Boutique at the Pebble Beach home of board member Linda and Larry LaDove on December 5th. After shopping and checking out silent auction items, guests danced to the tunes of The Bystrom Brothers. All money raised from this event will go directly to clear landmines in war torn countries giving families a chance to live in safety and with hope for their future.
Landmines
