I was born and raised in Denver, Colorado and as true Colorado girls do, I completed my degree as a Buffalo at Colorado University of Boulder. While at Boulder I specialized in sharpening my skills at skiing, hiking, and socializing. As if there aren’t enough opportunities to socialize in college I also was the Social Chair of my Sorority (Chi Omega) and used my passion for connecting with people to plan unbelievable events. From formal dances at the Westin to date dashes with elaborate themes, I helped members of the entire Greek community create memories to last a life time. When I’m not socializing, or doing anything sports related, you can find me pet sitting dogs or volunteering at a Children’s Hospital which has turned into my favorite past time. I was turned toward the thought of volunteering abroad when I found a program that brought my two favorite pastimes together, travel and giving back.
Describe your day to day activities as a volunteer.
Our daily routine at the township started off with breaking down tasks among the group to rebuild the school fence, the playground, and most importantly the building itself. We were able to spend time with the kids during their lunch breaks and reveled in learning their songs and games.
Once school was out and we had wrapped up, we would travel back to the volunteer house where local women prepared us their traditional meals with abundant food from the area. Then we all would head out to the township’s soccer field that previous volunteers had built to run athletic camps and keep the kids active. The older kids would play pickup games of soccer while all the younger kids were taken to the playground.
Once the sun set we returned to the house, and filled our nights with stories and card games. Having no radio, cable, or internet was a blessing as I continue to appreciate how much I was able to learn so much about the other “vollies”.
Ten years from now, what's the one thing you think you'll remember from the trip?
In 10 years from now I’ll never forget the people I met. We flew thousands of miles not knowing what to expect or who we’d share a room with and because of our common bond to give back it was as if we deep down knew each person so well, we became family instantly. I’ll also never forget the people who live there, the teacher who gives her life for these children everyday, not only in the classroom but, the ones she also takes into her home when in need. They showed me how simple and beautiful life is and for that I am forever grateful.
Has your worldview changed as a result of your trip?
It would be shocking if my worldview didn’t change after my volunteer trip. As I mentioned, this experience showed me how fortunate we are here and how beautifully different life is there. We lived off local foods and drank from their rain water retainers. It showed me to use my resources that are at arms length and try to kick my processed chip addiction. This group opened my eyes to that fact that a small impact can progress to bigger changes and to “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”- Margaret Mead.
What was the most interesting cultural difference you encountered?
The biggest cultural difference I experienced was while in Swaziland, we were visiting an orphanage to bring meals to its residents. Prior to entering their village, we had to put on wrap skirts with the King’s face on them as that is their custom for women. The kids ran around wearing these skirts trailing behind them like a cape. Another difference that was more difficult to work though was the language barrier. In Chintsa East, Durban, South Africa they speak Xhosa also known as the clicking language. This was Nelson Mandela’s first language.
Where would you most like to travel to next?
I’ll need to save up a few more years before trying to return to South Africa or jump on the next adventure that catches my attention. I’d love to return to the same township and see how everyone has grown and the new additions to the community! Any place that can take me out of my comfort zone and open my eyes and heart, I’m all in! The one thing I have learned about travel is that money will come and go but those experiences, life lessons, and memories will stick with you forever.
