"I've been so blessed in so many ways," states Kathryn Taubert, "that I feel a willing obligation to give back," she says of her impending trip to Ghana, West Africa, as part of the International Global Volunteer Network's poverty reduction programs around the world. http://www.volunteer.org.nz/ghana/community/ "I chose Ghana because it will give me the best opportunity to make a significant contribution in the shortest amount of time," she states of her month-long project, scheduled for summer of July 09. "I am excited to be a part of a program that makes use of the talents of seasoned professionals in a number of fields to help people in developing countries preserve their own cultures, while learning the business processes and procedures necessary to sustain themselves in a global economy." What most people don't know about Taubert is her extensive professional background in management, performance and productivity consulting, as well as fundraising. Prior to resuming her career in music, she was a management education executive for a Fortune 500 Financial Services conglomerate, and a professional fundraiser for a national voluntary health agency. "Naples Daily News" (http://www.naplesdailynews.com/) will be serializing her 'blog" on the trip, which she hopes will inspire others to "do something similar," she says. "You don't need to go to Africa to make a contribution," states Taubert. "I'm going because I wanted to immerse myself in a totally different culture for personal growth as well. To me, it's about learning how others live as well as appreciating our own wonderful lifestyle in the USA." When asked if she is retiring from music again, Taubert says "Oh no, but I am taking a bit of a sabbatical. I"ve been gradually reducing my performance schedule for the last few months, to get back to some of the other things in life I enjoy, and then refocus my energies in directions which I believe are most consistent with what I believe life is all about," she says. When asked what that is, she smiles mischievously and says, "I'll keep you posted as things transpire." Go along with Kathryn in her journey to West Africa at: www.kathryntaubert.blogspot.com