Our story

Mahjong for Makindu

Learn to play American Mahjong while doing good. All profits support the Makindu Children's Program — and you can give directly anytime.

The Makindu Children's Program

About Mahjong for Makindu

I first heard about the Makindu Children's Program from a friend who visited the Center on a recent trip to Africa. She was very moved by the experience and had a wonderful trip, and a group of us signed up to go on the same trip two years later.

The absolute highlight of the trip was the day we spent at the Center. Each class does a performance of some sort, either reading a poem, singing a song, or doing a fun dance. After that we split into 3 groups and visited a local home. It obviously brought to mind how incredibly blessed we are at home with so many conveniences we take for granted.

Donate

I knew I wanted to do more for the Center, so I joined the Board of Directors of the Makindu Children's Program (MCP) in December of 2024. MCP is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Eugene, Oregon.

I've been involved in fundraising for various organizations, and I know how much effort it takes to host a gala or similar event with a silent auction, etc. I've been trying to think of ways to raise awareness of this cause, and a big gala when our supporters are geographically dispersed just doesn't feel like the right approach.

How is this connected to Mahjong?

I took three Mahjong lessons with my sister and was instantly hooked! With Mahjong growing so quickly in popularity, I saw an opportunity to teach others, build community, and raise awareness of (and hopefully donations for!) Makindu Children's Program at the same time.

My hope is two-fold: That people interested in Mahjong will also learn about Makindu Children's Program and get involved, and that supporters of Makindu Children's Program can use this same model to raise awareness and support among their friends and family.

On the ground