GoBeyond China: Orphans of China

This was an amazing trip, and it was everything I wanted and more! Although I’m definitely an introvert and I’m very awkward, this trip widened my horizons. It helped me understand what I would like to do in the future, and how I can accomplish these goals. This program also helped me become more comfortable in my own skin and it helped me understand other people better. This trip made me understand the hardships other people go through in different societies and cultures, and it fed my passion for learning about new things.

I had so much fun on this trip. I meat friends that will last a life time. So many memories and inside jokes that were made. The people were wonderful and I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. I learned so much in three weeks about everyone on the trip and more about myself. The little children we worked with were so much fun. They’re smiles and laughs made all of us smile. I’ll never forgot singing Let it Go with everyone on the train ride to the children. These memories and friendships I have made will travel with me everywhere I go. All I say is thank you Go Beyond for making this possible.

This trip was a life changing experience for me. I was nervous going into it but came out so much better for it. I gained so much independence, through things like my airport experience, and leading my group through train stations and cities/villages. I also gained so many valuable conflict management, team work, and people skills, when my group experienced conflict we were able to work together to solve it, and I learned to interact with a variety of different personality types. My communication skills were also strengthened as I don't speak mandarine, so I had to learn to use other forms of communication to get my message across. The biggest part for me was the life long bonds and meaningful relationships I created with some of the children and nannies at the orphanage. I still follow their progress and development through the companies various sites, as I feel I am forever connected to them. I am beyond grateful for this incredible experience.

My experience with GoBeyond was amazing. I went on the China program this past summer. It was so incredible to see places I thought I would never visit. Everyone was so friendly on the trip. It was my first time flying ever too, and they were there for me when I got homesick. I loved every minute of it and I hope on day I can go back! I miss everyone from the trip. I felt like I really made a family there too! The kids from the orphanage were all so very sweet. I remember the looks on their faces when we got to visit and play with them, I really mean it when I say I miss this trip. When I say everyone was so nice, I meant it; they made it so difficult to leave the trip. I wish I was able to stay longer than the 3 weeks we had. I miss everyone and all the exciting places I went too!

The 3 weeks I spent in China with Lifeworks International were truly the best 3 weeks of my life. I chose this program because of my love for working with children. Many other service trips also include construction which I did not want to do.

We spent almost everyday volunteering with Chunmiao Little Flower, an orphanage for children with severe medical problems. Before I left for the trip I was really anxious about working with such sick kids. However, as soon as I got started all my anxiety disappeared and I had an amazing time with all of them.

We worked in the baby home with kids under 3 and the group homes with older kids (4-12ish). We played games, rocked the babies to sleep, did arts and crafts, played soccer, read stories, sang... Even though there was a language gap play is universal.
We also got to travel around China but the volunteering was by far my favorite part.

The apartment we stayed in was not fancy, pretty small with hard bunk beds but nothing we couldn't handle. It was totally livable. We ate delicious new food and met incredible people. Our counselors were so supportive and kind and just plain fun.

If you are thinking about doing this program I 100000% recommend it! You will have the time of your life!

Links to help you out:
chunmiaolittleflower.org (also check out their facebook page. just search Little Flower Projects)
lifeworks-international.com/wp/blogs/category/lw-chi-2 (my sessions blogs and video)
The videos are what convinced me to do this trip so watch them all