A group of 11 members of the Bishop Guilfoyle Academy community recently had the opportunity to serve and learn at the Selfless Solutions mission site in Tanzania, Africa. The two-week trip was part of the school’s annual travel and study abroad program.

The group was welcomed by Patrick Irwin (BG Class of 2013), founder of the nonprofit Selfless Solutions, which creates educational and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people in East Africa. While in Tanzania, the group assisted with construction projects—helping to build a foundation for a new school building—and worked closely with children in the classroom. They also experienced the beauty of Africa on safari.

“I was in awe of the students that participated in this trip,” shared Lisa Wolf, trip participant and mother of four BG alumni. “Their willingness to jump right into any task presented—especially the physically challenging work of construction—was inspiring. The kindness and patience they showed the children, and their excitement during the safari, all spoke to their character. They never complained. They just rolled with it all.”

Students Took Initiative Before the Trip!
In preparation for their journey, BG students raised funds to bring support directly to the mission site:

• Elle Wilson secured a $750 grant from the Altoona Sunrise Rotary.
• Elle Wilson and Lauren Lehman organized a safari-themed dress-down day and bake sale at BG, raising an additional $850.
• Joey Lehman secured a $250 donation from the St. Michael/St. Mary Parish Men’s Club in Hollidaysburg, which the group used to purchase school supplies in Tanzania for the Selfless Solutions students.
• Throughout the school year, Mr. Sutton’s religion classes contribute monthly to support six children at the Selfless Solutions school.

“Working with BG alum Pat Irwin and Selfless Solutions was the perfect partnership for our travel program,” said Mrs. Diane Hayes, BG faculty member and trip leader. “Our students were immersed in a beautiful culture and played a small part in helping to create educational opportunities for Tanzanian children. This experience expanded their understanding of what ‘community’ means on a global level.”

Global Opportunities for BG Students
Bishop Guilfoyle Academy offers annual travel and study abroad opportunities as part of its commitment to holistic education. Past trips have taken students to Austria, Belize, France, Greece, Hawaii, Italy, Ireland, Spain, and the Baja Peninsula.

📅 Selfless Solutions is currently preparing for its 4th Annual “Night in Africa” fundraiser on Friday, June 27 in Hollidaysburg, PA. To learn more and support the cause, including ticket information, visit selflesssolutions.org.