Local Peace Corps volunteer seeks to expand school in Africa

Franklin native and Peace Corps member Emily Irons teaches an overcrowded class in Uganda.

Franklin native and Peace Corps volunteer Emily Irons is currently serving in Uganda, where she teaches at an overcrowded primary school with 1,250 students. Recognizing the need for more classroom space, Irons proposed renovating an old building on the school grounds. She secured grant approval and began fundraising with the help of the school community and several outside donors. The total project cost is $15,709.19, and with the grant’s deadline fast approaching on Friday, Irons has raised just over $11,000. If the remaining funds aren’t secured in time, she’ll need to reapply for a new grant—potentially delaying the project significantly. Donations can be made at www.peacecorps.gov/donate/projects.pp-25-617-002/.

 

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