REXBURG — Education is a part of everyday life in the United States. It’s even required for children. In fact, it is such a normal part of our routine that people may take it for granted. However, in some parts of the world, people are lucky if they have the chance to step foot in a classroom. No one knows this better than Raymond Steven, a BYU-Idaho student from Sierra Leone and the CEO of the Ray Foundation.
The Ray Foundation seeks to provide educational opportunities for children in Steven’s hometown. Since the last time Steven spoke with BYU-Idaho, in late May, the foundation has taken off.
“Things are really getting big because right now we've also applied for the 501c and we're just waiting for approval,” Steven said. “Hopefully, because I know that at the end of the day it comes back to how credible we are as an institution.”
The ultimate goal for Steven and the Ray Foundation is to build a schoolhouse in Sierra Leone.
“There are hundreds of kids who walk 10 miles to school every day, Monday to Friday,” Steven said. “I also experienced that growing up. We make sure that every dollar was used for the actual purpose, which is going like getting materials and everything for building the school.”
Now, about five months after his first interview with BYU-Idaho Radio, the school building is beginning to take shape. The foundation has already cleared the site, laid the concrete and built the walls. However, there is still more to do.
“We need to roof the building,” Steven said. “We need to get furniture for the kids. So, that's where we are right now. We don't have the finances right now, so we've been able to reach out to a lot of people.”
Although Steven was the one who kickstarted the process and gave life to the dream of a new school in Sierra Leone, he wants to make clear that it is not about him. It is a team effort.
“Anytime I get to tell the story, it makes me happy,” Steven said. “That’s the credit I want. But I don’t want to be the face.”
As the mission of the foundation moves forward, Steven invites all to come and join the effort.
“We are the ones we are waiting for,” Steven said. “We’re waiting for you. Come and join us in whatever way you think you can join.”
To see the latest on the school from the Ray Foundation and see how you can help, visit www.rayfoundationsl.org.