Moe channels off-field ambition toward ‘Root Awakening’

[Jacaylbaro]

COLUMBIA, Mo. — On the field, T. J. Moe is one of Mizzou Football’s finest: a star Wide Receiver, who just finished his second season with the Tigers. But off the field, Moe and family channel that passion to individuals who may never have watched a Tigers football game.

 

Over 8,000 miles away from Faurot Field is a region in the horn of Africa called Somaliland. In 1991, Somaliland seceded from Somalia after a violent civil war tore apart the region. Though the nation is not recognizd by the State Department, it has maintained a stable existence and continues efforts to establish a constitutional democracy, including elections. With that status comes huge problems which are even larger for children, including a lack of educational institutions, poor health care, high orphanage rates, and hunger.

 

T.J’s brother Scotty Moe, now 26, decided to reach out. Following a short stint as an accountant in downtown Chicago, he packed up and went to the region in 2008. He completed his MBA with emphasis on International Development, and then, with a group of friends started an organization called ‘Root Awakening,’ RA, in January 2010.

 

RA, according to their website, seeks to empower individuals and institutions to meet needs. “We found ways to join together in bringing hope to communities by partnering with local institutions, building relationships with the government and working with street kids,” says the website.

 

“When community development and relief efforts are approached in this manner, impoverished people are transformed into thriving, self-sustaining individuals. A love-based strategy assists in inspiring the hearts of activists and donors, prompting them to do more to combat extreme poverty,” the website says on another page.

 

T.J. decided to use his social network base — followed by almost 9,000 people coupling his Facebook and Twitter account — to make a difference.

 

“I have been involved in raising awareness for Root Awakening by using my social networks and connections to tell others about the organization and its needs. My goal is to mobilize thousands of people to get involved and help impoverished people in Somaliland,” he said in an interview with PoliticMo.

 

T.J. says people can make a difference by spreading the word about the organization. He said a future step might be to mention RA to some teammates.

 

Those interested can learn more, network, and contribute financially online. Using specific forms in the ‘Get Involved’ section, donors can specify exactly where they want their contribution spent.

 

 

 

Source: http://politicmo.com/2011/01/10/t-j-moe-channels-off-field-ambition-toward-root-awakening/