A Pleasantville teen is looking to help and learn this summer.
Jeremiah Wright, 14, will head to South Africa with the Rev. Collins Days Sr. in June as part of the United Brethren in Action.
"It will be a life-changing experience," said Days, who just returned from Tanzania.
"We really engage in the local indigenous community," he explained. "It's an opportunity to live it while we're there."
Jeremiah first learned of the mission when Days spoke at the Rites of Passage.
The pastor of Atlantic City's Second Baptist Church talked of how he likes to bring students on these trips to have them exposed to other cultures while also lending a hand.
"I jumped on the offer," Jeremiah said.
"Honestly what I am most looking forward to on the trip is getting the experience and having this opportunity to explore the motherland," he said. "I want to give back to those who are less fortunate or unable to receive opportunities such as mine."
Jeremiah also will have a greater appreciation for the opportunities living in America provides, Days promised.
Malawi, one of the poorest countries in Africa is one of the main stops, he explained. About 200 people lost their lives and many homes were destroyed in a recent cyclone.
"He'll have some hands-on recovery work," Days said.
Jeremiah will also walk the miles some of these children walk just to sit in a classroom of about 90.
"You won't hear a sound because everybody is trying to get their education," Days said.
There are villages with no electricity or running water.
Jeremiah will follow a family for the morning ritual of walking two to three miles to get water and carry it back. The trip happens twice each day to have enough water, he explained.
"After the trip, I feel as though I’ll come back to the U.S. a better person," Jeremiah said. "More humbled and grateful for what I have because because not everyone has what I have."
He said he believes it will help him "not take things for granted."
Jeremiah will also get his "National Geographic moment," Days said, speaking a planned safari.
"I'm so excited that Jeremiah rose to the challenge and said he wanted to come," the pastor added.
"I am only 14 years old and about to experience something I never thought I would have an opportunity to do," Jeremiah said. "I have to give a special thank you to my mother (Chrissy Bishop), Elle, Mrs. Shermaine Gunther-Gary, my family and New Shiloh Baptist Church family who is pushing to make this dream happen."
The trip will cost about $4,500, so Jeremiah is hoping those in the community will help make his dream trip.
Anyone who want to help can send a check or money order to PO Box 302, Pleasantville, NJ 08232.
Money can also be sent through CashApp at $ChrssyRenee84 or Zelle at 6093727201 and put "Africa trip" in the "For" section.
