See on Scoop.it – “#Volunteer Abroad Information: Volunteering, Airlines, Countries, Pictures, Cultures”
My Favorite Memory: The Children’s Neurology center was an amazing experience for me –these kids showed such courage and hope, and a sense of fun and…
See on feedback.abroaderview.org
My Favorite Memory: The Children’s Neurology center was an amazing experience for me –these kids showed such courage and hope, and a sense of fun and wonderful spirit. I was so amazed by how well-loved they were by the staff, given their extremely challenging conditions.
I was surprised that… There weren’t more English-Spanish translators on hand! There were many who spoke (read and wrote) exclusively Quechua and not Spanish
The most difficult thing I experienced was…. Also likely to be the Neurological Center for children as well. It was devastating to experience their pain and feel helpless to it. Additionally it was hard to leave the mission without having the capability to assist various patients in need of chronic care! Our simple presence provided them with encouragement, although I feel we can offer some additional assistance that extends to the future!
My best received lesson… Was from a colleague who caught (read through the patient history) a TIA (transient ischemic attack) on an aging patient who happened to be overlooked by us in the pharmacy. This medical student cared so deeply about the patients that she pointed out the need to support this particular female patient with critical pharmacological care.
Tip for future volunteers… (Clothing, travel, personal items, donations, sightseeing etc)
Bring some heavier clothing to wear in the evenings and be sure to take soles (Peruvian money) out ahead of time in order to ensure that taxis and other vendors accept the money (carry smaller notes around for convenience). I would personally recommend considering to bring fun gifts for the beautiful kids you meet!
Personal Paragraph (ABV Testimonial):
A rewarding, heartfelt, and wonderful time was held by just about each and every person involved in the program. The outside environment, people, and culture won us over and warmed our hearts.
How would you rate your experience working with the ABV staff, both in the USA, and in-country?
FANTASTIC! Absolutely wonderful. Jonathan, our translator and support staff, was particularly exceptional.
How would you describe your accommodation (ie: host family, on-site, shared housing etc)
Fabulous host family but we could have had a bit more coordination earlier on — showering, meals, etc. dynamics could be improved and a bit smoother. Having said this however, the food (at lunch particularly) was terrific at Maria Elena’s house and very well put together. The vibe–loved the music and energy in the home – made the experience even better!
Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers? Of course, anytime! Email or cell phone.
Miss you all and please stay in touch!
from Volunteers Abroad Reviews and Feedbacks http://feedback.abroaderview.org/2012/06/06/andrea-volunteer-in-cusco-peru/
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/cc43su
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/bUFNJR
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/bUFNL6
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/bUFNN6
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/bUFNQv
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/cc43Ef
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/cc43G7
via Flickr http://flic.kr/p/bUFNYk
|
A Broader View is a 501 (c)(3) based Non-Profit Organization based in Pennsylvania. With a love for humankind, and a motivated spirit to help others, ABV was created on the belief that one person can make a difference in the lives of others.
We are located in 22 Countries: Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Honduras, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Belize, Nicaragua, Ghana, Cameroon, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, South Africa, Nepal, China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Philippines.
