Weighing my options

I made inquiries on idealist.org to find community development organizations in Cameroon. I was pleasantly surprised to receive prompt responses from many of them. So far I have narrowed my options to the following organizations:

REPERID
Kumbo, Cameroon, Northwest province

BERUDEP
Belo, Cameroon, Northwest province

HINT
Buea, Cameron, Southwest province

CITEC
Yaounde, Cameroon, Central province

I've created a table that contains these organizations and lists the pros and cons of each. In addition I'm going to research the source of funding of each organization. This is probably the best way to gauge whether the organization REALLY represents ideals I feel comfortable promoting.

Stay tuned. . .

So much to do!!

I have lots to do to get ready for this trip!

• Get a Visa. Cameroon requires a Visa, in addition to your passport, for entry into the country. I'm setting a goal to have the documentation mailed off by Feb.1.
• Select a community organization. While in Cameroon, I want to volunteer my time with an organization that uplifts and empower to those in need. A volunteer opportunity can also provide comfort and companionship.
  
• Purchase supplies and gifts. Over the next six months I'll be buying the proper attire and supplies for the trip. I can be more specific in what I purchase after I determine where I volunteer. Community organizations typically request volunteers to bring gifts that will help the people they serve, such as books, pens/pencils. computers, and so on. As with the supplies, I'll have a better idea of what gifts to get after I determine where I volunteer.
• Get in better physical shape. Signed up for a gym membership today. I hate gyms, but I want to build up my physical endurance and strength. You never know when you might be faced with a physical challenge.
• Produce the documentary. Aaron, my co-producer, and I are formulating our production plan and evaluating our resources.

I'll elaborate on all the items in my checklist in separate threads.

**Utilizing Film Arts Foundation**

AG, until we can buy our own camera, I suggest we avail ourselves of their equipment. If their policy hasn't changed, you have to go to a class to learn how to operate the cameras. I believe it's one night, maybe two. Then we can put our names on their schedule to check out the camera and accompanying equipment such as sound mics, etc.

I believe we can initially use their editing facilities too until we get our own software and dedicated computer. We can also use editing facilities are Bay Area Video Coalition. However, I need to reacquaint myself with their editing equipment access policies.

When you have time, investigate whether there are other options. I'll do the same.