SStS Bolivia: Rural Health Care in the Amazon

This trip was a fantastic experience! I traveled to places that I never thought I would see. I knew people lived without clean water, but truly seeing it was shocking. I was happy to help- and after we were done with the water filters, we spent the remaining time traveling Bolivia. I met some really great people on this trip- making water filters together was amazing, and I loved traveling with my group to new places and having new experiences with them. Our group leaders, Olivia and Sarah, were incredible, and I would not have chosen different group leaders if I ever had the choice.

My trip to Bolivia was a once in a life-time trip and I encourage you to sign up. My experiences traveling in the Amazon Basin, living in an indigenousness community and experiencing their way of life, gave me a different perspective on everyday life. You will learn to appreciate little things in life, especially your access to water. The work can be hard at times but it's all worth it by the end. Throughout your travels, you will meet amazing and unique people and develop lifetime relationships. All in all, this trip was an incredible experience that I will never forget.

The trip to Bolivia that I took last summer has changed my life. It has brought me awareness about clean water, experience in another country, and a second family. I was nervous to go on the service trip, leaving my family and friends behind for 16 days, but it was the best decision of my life. I learned so much, met so many new people, and made connections to last lifetimes. The people you meet on your journeys will never be forgotten and will bring you so much joy throughout your time there. Yes, the work is hard, but trust me, when you install those filters, and see clear water running out, when you see the smiles of the people's whose lives you improved, it is beyond worth it. If you are considering doing this trip, I encourage you to. You will not regret it.