Bring Your Heart to Romania

My first "visit" to Romania was on a river tour and provided a brief overview of Bucharest. I found Eastern Europe very interesting but was haunted by images of street children and stories of human trafficking. I knew the history of the horrendous "Romanian Orphanages". I received a call from Global Volunteers asking me to work with those children. The stars aligned!

Global Volunteers.org is based in Minnesota and has an excellent reputation for international volunteering. The work day is 8:30 to 1 and 3-6, followed by dinner. The children can be new born to age 10, most with Special Needs. Each child is so special in his or her own way and hugs abound! Do you need special skills? Only the ability to love, hug, and comfort a child! This service is perfect for children, teens, students, adults and seniors!

The work week ends on Friday and the team or individuals usually travel away from Barlad and experience the warmth of Romanian hospitality and learn about the culture. The Romanian Team leaders are excellent, personable and excited about sharing Romania with you.

I never planned to go to Romania; I was planning to go to Crete. Each day I think of the children, see their smiles and tears, and wish I were with them. I went a stranger, left my heart, and will again return as familia. Following my heart to Romania is the best decision I have ever made!