This was Michelle's 2nd visit to the Highland Rotary Club.  In October of 2004, Michelle met Elba, who was an interpreter for Father Alfredo after Father Alfredo had come to the hospital for therapy.  From there Michelle learned about Elba and her 268 orphans in Venezuela and started Operation Elba's Orphans. 

In Venezuela, Elba has 2 houses that house the orphans.  Elba started these homes for the children after finding a baby in the trash can.  When she contacted a police officer for help, he told her that this happens all the time and to just leave the baby there.  Elba then set up with the local hospital that whenever a child was brought in, that she would take them.  This began in 1989 after asking the Sisters for help.  In the first home are 76 children between the ages of 3 and 8.  In the other home, which is more of an aluminum shed are 196 kids that are either sick, disabled, or above the age of 8.  These children do not go to school because they don't have enough  money.  All money that is raised on their behalf is used to feed them and tend to their healthcare needs.  And due to the political environment in Venezuela, their donations are way down.  Right now, they are in debt of $6086. 

 

This is where Michelle and her operation come in.  They raise money in the form of sponsorships, websites, Krispy Creme Doughnut sales, car washes, Mazzio Pizza nights, and lemonade stands.  At the end of the program, Jennifer presented Michelle with a check for $3000 to be used towards the operation.