Virtual Eco-Missions (VEM) presently supports ongoing conservation and snakebite prevention training efforts in Kenya and Malawi.  VEM specifically supports three organizations at the present time.  These are the Upendo Conservation Area in Bungoma County, Kenya; Snake Community Action Now! (throughout Kenya); and Nazarene churches in western Kenya and Malawi.  The teams from these organizations are composed of people from different ethnic groups and faiths that are bonded together by love and compassion for those in need of hope and healing and the desire to save as many lives as possible.  Though they may be of different faiths, all team members are free to believe and worship as they choose and to engage with others respectfully that might believe differently.  

My role with these organizations is to train passionate people to go out into their communities and educate others about snakebite envenomation and other conservation-related issues.  I advise, create educational programs, and do fundraising to provide financial support where it is needed.  Given my background, my focus is mostly on education and how it can be used at the individual and community level to bring about sustainable environmental and social change.   In terms of conservation, I provide species identification assistance, development of conservation goals and objectives, and assistance with management plans where appropriate.  I also seek to build the capacity of local and regional organizations in terms of leadership, fundraising, and telling their stories on social media.  

Currently, my main focus is addressing the problem of snakebite in the communities of Kenya and Malawi.   My role has been to train people passionate about snakes and snakebite using whatever means possible, including lessons administered as WhatsApp chats.  I also create and provide educational resources for training; and find funds for transportation and other expenses, including - where possible - assistance for snakebite survivors with their expenses and treatment.  All work is done in consultation with local chiefs and elders.

Along with this training and assistance, I want my life and the lives of my teams to reflect the love of Jesus Christ and to help people be free from the risk of snakebite envenomation.