Enriching is an understatement! (NBIC)

I think it's agreed that any travel is good travel, and no matter how good or bad the experience, you always come home with a huge sense of personal growth.

But my trip, working in special needs, went way above and beyond the expectations I had. And to ask me what was most memorable would be an impossible question to answer! With the children I spent time with, it was definitely the small things that were milestones, such as one boy going from not looking at me at all the first day, to smiling and making eye contact; really SEEING me and reciprocating a hug after 3 days. A different boy running up to give me a hug and say 'Hi' after not being with him for the weekend. Another child telling me that he loved me - making it even harder to face the fact that I would have to leave all these brave hearts.

We also were able to take some of the kids on a field trip to a resort and just play with them on the playground, explore the area with them, and take them into the swimming! The smiles on the kids faces were so heartwarming - they were so happy to be breaking away from their usual daily routine, being in a different place, and their excitement was priceless.

Also, I went into this program completely oblivious to the social aspect - I was merely going there to give my all to my placement - but the friendships, with other volunteers, that blossomed throughout this trip are so deep and unique that you really become family with these people who hold the same core values and morals as you, and that in itself is such a heartwarming feeling.

By the end of the month, it was so devastating to have to say goodbye, that I was kicking myself for not extending my stay, but I left with a heart so full of love and gratitude for all that I have gained from this experience. I can say with certainty that I will definitely be back - highly recommend!