Maasai Chief Joseph ole Tipanko Returns

Chief Joseph ole Tipanko is chief of over 5000 people of the ancient Maasai tribe in East Africa. He is on a mission to improve living conditions for his impoverished people while clinging tenaciously to the beauty of old culture and traditions.

The Chief and his delegates travel annually to the US to fundraise for his people. This is a great benefit to us who are able to experience first-hand a rare and honest view of an ancient, indigenous culture with its great complexities, including its flaws, as it makes modifications to adjust to modern demands.

In the 8 years of his tour, the Chief has touched thousands of hearts: school children, museum and library patrons, and individuals going about their daily routines. When Chief Joseph is in town he is hard to ignore! Adorned in the brightly colored, beaded Maasai dress and carrying his "Chief Stick" he's a tall, lanky and regal presence with a huge smile and even bigger personality.

As a result of his fundraising The Chief has built and opened two pre-schools with lunch programs and playground equipment, provided a safe haven and educational sponsorships for Maasai girls, distributed water cisterns, solar panels, donated laptops and school books, and opened a guest house for volunteers.

To help the Chief continue his amazing work, please visit him at one of his open presentations which combine cultural display, song, dance, beading and informal interaction. An amazing experience and opportunity to help without the expense and hassle of a flight to Maasailand!

For more information: www.leavingfootprints.org; info@leavingfootprints.org

Open to the Public:
Sun. Oct. 2: Port Jefferson Village Center Noon-4pm
Mon. Oct. 3: Port Jefferson Library - 6:30-7:30
Wed. Oct 5: The House of Judah - Sayville, NY 5:30 (beading) 7:30
Sat. Oct 8: Hempstead Museum 11:00 am - 2 pm