A trip to Africa was always a dream of Waynesville residents Bill and Jane Cole. Like many who make the trip, the Coles were eager to view the exotic wildlife they’d only ever seen in zoos or on TV, but their trip ended up taking on a special significance for them.

For many years, the couple has sponsored a child through Plan International, a children’s development organization that works to improve the lives of children and communities around the world by providing education, clean water, access to health care and other locally-initiated projects.

“We want to share our good fortune and help others in dire need,” said Bill of their reason for getting involved with Plan International.

Over the years, the Coles have sponsored four different children until they reached adulthood at age 18, ...