'Iolani's eighth and ninth grade classes were inspired by representatives from the Invisible Children project who are traveling across the country to raise funds and awareness for children in Uganda.

"If the greatest generation sacrificed for war, what will our generation be known for if we sacrifice for peace," asked the voice-over in a movie produced by Invisible Children.

Volunteering full time, four college students from California spoke to 'Iolani students about how they can make a difference in the lives of people who are their same age half a world away. The presentation was held during an assembly in Seto Hall on April 3 thanks to the efforts of the 'Iolani Peace Institute and several dedicated faculty members. 

For 20 years, the Ugandan government has been at war with the rebel militia called the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). The LRA abducts children and forces them to live in camps where they are indoctrinated into the rebel cause.

However, the many programs sponsored by Invisible Children have made progress with peace efforts in Northern Uganda while assisting war affected children.

American schools have sponsored schools in Uganda. People have bought bracelets made in Uganda that provide a source of income for the bracelet makers. Monetary contributions of all sizes make an impact.

On Monday and Tuesday, April 7 and 8, 'Iolani's eighth and ninth graders will hold a bake sale with all proceeds going to Kalani High's Project HOPE which sponsors a school in Uganda through Invisible Children. This fall, 'Iolani will adopt its own sister school there.

For more information, check the Invisible Children web site http://www.invisiblechildren.com/home.php and support the 'Iolani bake sale April 7 and 8.

PHOTO: Teachers Kim Ishihara, far left, and Kimi Frith, far right, stand with representatives from Invisible Children, Andrea Nakhla, John Shults, Paige Newton and Ben Sasso.