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Fifty Lanterns International is a nonsectarian,
nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota.
We were founded to help improve lives in communities torn by poverty, war or disaster through gifts of
solar-powered lanterns and energy systems.

We took our name for our first project - giving 50
solar lanterns to 50 widows on the outskirts of Kabul, Afghanistan. These widows live in unimaginable poverty, with no access to electricity and few opportunities to earn a living. The lanterns they received made a dramatic difference in their lives
and in the lives of their children.

Immediately following our first project, we became aware of many other opportunities to help other
people around the world through the gift of solar energy. We provided relief supplies, winterized tents and nearly 250 solar lanterns to earthquake survivors high in the mountains of northern Pakistan and Kashmir. We then provided 300 solar lanterns for a group of child- and widow-headed households working in a coffee cooperative in western Rwanda. And many more projects are still under consideration.

Fifty Lanterns is a small, volunteer-led organization. We partner with existing organizations to complete our work. In the past, we've worked with CARE International, Save the Children, HOPE Worldwide, and Habitat for Humanity. These groups operate with limited funds. By cooperating with them to provide solar energy, we significantly impact both the success of their work, and the future prospects for the communities we serve.

Board of Directors:

Linda Cullen; Executive Director

Norma Ames, Faith Based Representative
Peggy Carlson, Events
Patty Griffin, Events
Liz Langolis, Faith Based Representative
Pam Lindquist, Faith Based Representative
Kathy Lepp, East Coast Representative
Jennifer F. Martin, Ph.D; Best Buy Corporation
Faith McGown, Coldwell Banker Burnet
Laura Roller, Augsburg College
Bonnie Sommerville, Splitrock Studios
Kelly C. Weiley, St. Cloud State University
Ann Yekeldo, U.S. Bank

Support Staff:

Patrick North/Pride Designs, Webmaster
Julie Fliflet, Accountant
Emma Roller, Youth Representative

Make a difference in someones life and get involved with Fifty Lanters International by:

• Joining our mailing list. Click here to find out how.

• Giving a donation.

• Giving a memorial or honor gift for a loved one.

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