Happiness Volunteers

So, it's one of the best experiences I have ever done, I have learned many things while creating my content and also by teaching. I have gained the experience I need. Thank you happiness volunteers. Over the past four months, I've enjoyed every moment of teaching and connecting with learners from diverse backgrounds.One of the most valuable aspects of this experience was the opportunity to create my own content tailored to English learners' needs. This not only allowed me to be creative but also helped me to better understand how to make learning engaging and effective.Through this process, I gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in teaching, content creation, and cultural sensitivity. The skills and insights I’ve developed will undoubtedly benefit me in my future endeavors.Overall, this journey has been enriching and fulfilling, and I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to others’ learning while also growing personally and professionally. I would highly recommend this volunteering opportunity to anyone passionate about teaching and learning.

Volunteering with Happiness Volunteers in Turkey was a deeply fulfilling experience, focused on teaching computer science basics and English to Syrian orphans. The program's emphasis on education as empowerment resonated with the belief in the transformative power of knowledge. Teaching computer skills opened doors for the children, providing not just technical know-how but also fostering confidence and curiosity. English classes became a bridge for communication, breaking down language barriers and creating connections. The cultural exchange enriched the experience, exposing volunteers to the resilience and hope of the orphans. The journey highlighted the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges. The collective effort of the volunteer group created a support system, reinforcing the belief that positive change is possible even in challenging circumstances. Overall, the experience was a reciprocal journey of growth, emphasizing the profound impact of compassion and education on lives facing adversity.

This program allowed me to work face to face with refugees from Syria, and it allowed me to grow as a person. You will gain a greater appreciation for the blessings you have once you hear some of the stories of the refugees. I feel I have a greater perspective on the refugee crisis, and I feel more motivated to help solve the problem, now that I have completed the program. Overall, a great program and definitely cost effective. The program coordinator was very flexible to my needs and helped me with recommendations.

Volunteering with Happiness Volunteers in Turkey to teach computer science basics and English to Syrian orphans has been a profoundly rewarding experience. The program's emphasis on education as a means of empowerment aligns with my belief in the transformative power of knowledge.

Teaching these resilient young minds computer science basics opened a gateway to a world of possibilities. Witnessing their eagerness to learn and adapt to the digital realm was truly inspiring. In a world increasingly shaped by technology, providing them with these fundamental skills not only equips them for future opportunities but also instills a sense of confidence and curiosity.

English classes became a bridge, connecting hearts and minds across language barriers. The orphans' enthusiasm to grasp a new language mirrored their determination to overcome adversity. Communication became more than just words; it became a tool for fostering understanding and unity. Through language, we shared stories, exchanged ideas, and built a sense of belonging.

The cultural exchange inherent in volunteering added another layer to the experience. Immersed in the rich tapestry of Turkish and Syrian cultures, I learned as much from the orphans as they did from me. Their resilience in the face of hardship and their unwavering hope for a brighter future left an indelible mark on my perspective.

The smiles on the children's faces as they grasped new concepts and formed sentences in English were priceless. It reflected not only their academic progress but also the joy that comes from empowering others. Volunteering became a reciprocal journey of growth, where each lesson taught was met with gratitude and a hunger for more knowledge.

The sense of community fostered within the volunteer group and with the local communities added depth to the experience. Sharing challenges and triumphs with fellow volunteers created a support system that extended beyond the classroom. Together, we became a collective force for positive change, working towards a common goal of making a lasting impact on these young lives.

The volunteer experience in Turkey also highlighted the importance of adaptability and resilience. Working in a dynamic environment with limited resources necessitated creativity and flexibility. Overcoming these challenges not only strengthened our commitment to the cause but also reinforced the idea that positive change can happen even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, volunteering with Happiness Volunteers in Turkey to teach computer science and English to Syrian orphans was an enriching journey of education, cultural exchange, and personal growth. It emphasized the transformative power of knowledge and the profound impact that compassion and education can have on the lives of those facing adversity. As I reflect on this experience, I carry with me the smiles of the children, the bonds formed, and the belief that, through collective efforts, we can contribute to a brighter future for all.

As an experienced English teacher, it meant a lot to me that Happiness Volunteers encouraged me to apply my knowledge and creativity with a team in creating and teaching a 10 day English workshop for the young refugees. The other teachers and management staff spoke English, Turkish and Arabic (I only speak English!) and together we stayed focused on our goal of supporting the refugees through English instruction- which can make such a difference in their future! Good staff communication and a class of 20 motivated students made teaching fun and rewarding to me and the students. Including lesson preparation time, the project took about 3-5 hours per day. A great and unexpected benefit of volunteering was the cultural and travel activities that Aya organized for us after the work was done- we visited mosques and museums, took boat rides on the Bosphorus Straight, and ate Turkish, Yemenese, Iraqi and Syrian cuisine!