Transform Lives in Central America!

Over my High Schools April spring break, I traveled to Panama with School The World. This organization is set up by an incredible group of staff members and volunteers. While also on my trip, I met some of my best friends who I got to share this experience with. Before going on this trip, I did not really know what to expect other than the information we had been given beforehand. I was not sure if I was going to enjoy myself while on this trip, but after I had been on it, I realized it was my favorite trip yet. During this experience, learning first hand how so many people live in rural parts of Panama was so eye-opening. This program showed me as a high school student how much privilege I live with in my daily life. I have nothing but respect and praise to give to Danielle, Natalie, Ali, and Anna who run this program. I was nervous about going on this trip without being fluent in Spanish, but once I got there I realized how much Spanish you can use when you are around people who do not speak any, or very little English. I was a great time to use all my skills I have been learning and I feel much more confident in my Spanish now. I HIGHLY recommend this trip for absolutely anyone interested in service trips in Latin America.

Over spring break, I went to Panama with School The World and met an amazing staff and group of fellow travellers. I was unsure going into this program if I would enjoy it or not, but after completing the trip and learning so much about how other countries live I cannot say anything but praise this program. It is truly eye-opening to see how much we Americans don't have to deal with but can help with if we give a little effort and be a little more generous. The highlights were definitely getting to practice my Spanish with the locals and admire the scenery, but even despite the language barrier my group and I were able to communicate with the kids through waves and smiles alone. 100% reccommend for anyone wanting an experience that will change their life for the better forever.

I absolutely loved my experience on the 2020 trip to Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca in Panama. Upon arrival, we got to see the best aspects of the countryside and relax at a beautiful resort by hanging out by the pool after our long day of travel which gave me an additional perspective on this very unique and dynamic country. We spent the next week working and playing in the village of Nueva Estrella which was the most welcoming, humble, and satisfied community I have ever seen. From my time with them, I gained an amazing sense of gratitude for little things in life and the realization that you don't need possessions to be happy, just good people. Providing these children with more access to education has been an experience I will never forget and I hope others get to have an opportunity to go on a trip with similar impact for everyone involved.

Panama was my second service trip with School the World, and it was incredible all around. Working with everyone on the trip, being involved in the community, and doing meaningful work were cores to the experience, and while the work we did was not easy (digging holes, creating concrete, building play structures, etc.) it was also incredibly rewarding. School the World does a great job assisting fundraising, educating about the country you are going to, and supporting you along the way. 10/10 recommend this experience!