Ed Wilkerson Scholarship Fund for Post-Secondary Education

On April 24th, 2008, Ed Wilkerson, my dad, went home to paradise and to be with Jesus. He fought hard against cancer, but God’s plan for him on earth had been completed. Although we were prepared for God’s plans above ours, it gave us a time to be reflective of all the treasures and impact dad had on all those he touched. The one penetrating message that dad displayed was that faith came first, then family, and then whatever the successes in the business world would have in store for him.

Being raised in the 70s and ‘80s with all the conveniences and culture pointing toward gaining possessions, I often wondered why my dad didn’t change jobs and continue to step up the corporate ladder. After asking my parents about this, the message was clear. God and family come first. Our family’s stability with church and home was far more important than moving or pursuing financial rewards. In looking back as a child and teenager, we never went without, even though dad never changed jobs and climbed the corporate ladder, although he had many opportunities offered to him. Dad had his priorities straight! Sometimes with all the craziness and excesses that bombard us everyday, we lose site of that. Fortunately for me, I have a great example to reflect on everyday to keep me from being distracted with the “noise” of everyday life.

As people came out of the woodworks to share with me what a special person my dad was and how generous he was with his words and deeds, they asked how they could honor his life. I just knew Heart for Africa was that vehicle. Having been on two short-term service trips and heading to El Shaddai in Swaziland this June, I know what can happen when the family breaks down and the kids are left behind. The one thing they need is HOPE. As Janine mentions on one of her encounters with one of the boys, he just wants a chance at education to continue to give him hope for the future. When we saw some of the donations coming in and praying with what we should do with them, this concept was revealed to us. How better to honor my dad’s memory than providing opportunity for the kids so they will have a chance to focus on their family someday. So with this in mind, we are thrilled to announce the Ed Wilkerson Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund will help provide grant money for post-secondary education for the kids at the homes Heart for Africa is partnering with.

God provides in mysterious ways that I do not understand many times. I would like to encourage all of you who would like to honor a loved one by joining us and giving to the Ed Wilkerson Scholarship Fund, Together we can provide an opportunity for these kids who are victims of their circumstances not of their own doing. Even if we help with just one child, as Janine says, what if that one was your child or someone you know. Wouldn’t you want to help and say “It’s not okay with me either!”

In humble regards and honor to my dad, Ed Wilkerson,
Pete Wilkerson

To contribute to the Ed Wilkerson Scholarship Fund, click the button below. Alternatively, mail your donation to:
Heart for Africa
P.O. Box 573
Apharetta, GA 3000
Clearly note “Scholarship Fund” on your check.

Thank you for helping bring hope to the future of a child.