Corene Russell is killing two birds with one stone: a trip of a lifetime and serving others.
The Marion County woman is going to spend two weeks in Africa, specifically Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Botswana.
“Africa is on my bucket list,” Russell said.
As part of her trip, she is taking soccer uniforms and balls with her, and donations are being collected at the WINGS Thrift Store on Broad Street through July 15.
Her son, Rande Allen, sponsors an organization, Partners for Development, and told her about the program. The organization helps improve the quality of life of vulnerable people in underserved communities, according to its website.
Russell has learned there is a recreational center in Zambia through Partners for Development where the children love to play soccer and could use uniforms and soccer balls.
She contacted WINGS about helping, and there is now a container to place used or new soccer uniforms and balls. She will personally be going to the recreational center to deliver the items.
Not only is she going to recreational centers, but she will also speak in local schools, work on a farming project and visit a local health facility.
For part of the trip, Russell is staying with a missionary couple. She said the couple are from the U.S. but live mostly in Africa.
