Dr. Mark Smillie (a member of our congregation), during a trip to do some volunteer work in Tanzania in 2012, had the privilege of meeting Dennis and Paula Lofstrom.  This physician and nurse first answered the call to go to Tanzania in 2002.  Their goal was to bring health care to underserved people in that country.  An organization called International Health Partners Tanzania was the result, and with the help of many, they have now taken on the incredibly ambitious goal of building a children's hospital in Southern Tanzania.  Five years since starting this project there has been significant progress made.  Altogether, 33 buildings are planned, and some of these have already been completed.  All of this has been made possible by volunteer groups, and by donations of money and supplies from the United States and Canada.

Dennis and Paula spend about half of each year visiting communities in the United States and Canada, presenting information about their project.  Fundraising is of course part of their goal, but they are also passionate about education and awareness.  The other half of the year they live in Tanzania.  They are committed to hosting volunteer groups with many skills, including people with expertise in construction, but also nurses, medical students, family doctors,  and specialists, that travel to Tanzania to donate their time.  Mark has been a recipient of their hospitality on his Tanzania trip, and was impacted by their huge hearts, and generous spirit.  

Mark invited them to visit High River, and he is hosting an evening at the church to meet this amazing couple. Although there will be an opportunity to donate to their project, there will not be any pressure to do so.  Mark encourages anyone to attend who has an interest in meeting these remarkable people and learning about their passion for the people of Tanzania.

This event will occur on Friday, February 28th at the High River United Church and a dinner will begin at 6 pm; Dennis and Paula will do a presentation after dinner.  There will be coffee and dessert after the presentation, and an opportunity to visit with Paula and Dennis.  

Don't hesitate to email Mark Smillie at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.  To have some idea of numbers, Mark does request that you notify him if you are planning to attend