After a three-month selection process, Michelle Pickett of Clarkston has been chosen to join a 16-person mission to Africa.
Her remaining obstacle: $3,000 for flight, lodging, and other expenses. She has raised $2,000 so far from family, friends, and classmates at Clarkston High School, and has until June 1 for the rest.
She hopes the community can help.
‘It’s my life ? the one thing I would want to do more than anything in the world,? she said. ‘I’m counting down the days. It’s all I think about.?
The mission, with her church, Kensington Community Church of Troy through Thrive Africa, will visit rural villages near Harrismith, South Africa.
Pickett, a senior at the high school, heard of the two-week mission, June 24-July 3, from a classmate in Spanish class.
‘I always wanted to go to Africa, to help feed the children,? she said.
‘I’m proud of her,? said her mother Linda Pickett. ‘She’s been working hard ? she’s dreamt of this for a long time. Now she’s making it happen.?
This will be Michelle’s first trip overseas.
‘It’s my calling. I feel it’s what I’m supposed to do with my life,? she said.
After graduation, she plans to attend DePaul University in Chicago, and study photojournalism.
‘I want to educate people about Africa ? show the world what it’s really like,? she said.
People wishing to help can send tax-deductible donations to her church, Kensington Community Church, 1825 E. Square Lake Road, Troy, MI, 48085. No names on the memo line, but a card with Michelle’s name on it can make sure it is applied to her account.
‘I greatly appreciate the support and prayers,? she said.