Kindergarten in Zambia

I cannot even begin to describe how life-changing this trip was. My kids and those in the community were so far beyond amazing. They have next to nothing and yet they still laugh, play pranks, and goof around just like every other kid. Their smiles, especially knowing their circumstances, fill you with this feeling of absolute humility, joy, and amazement. There is not a single thing I wouldn't give in this world for an opportunity to see them again. The other volunteers and things to do in the city and surrounding areas were all icing on the cake. The locals are all accepting, caring, warm, and friendly to a level I haven't seen in the United States.

Things I would let future participants know? Be prepared to have the best time of your life, love these kids, and be loved unconditionally by them. Other than the kids, bring things to trade! Shampoo, hair ties, socks, medicines, clothes, and the like are as good as currency in a number of places (namely the Mukuni Village and various markets). And most importantly, be prepared to cry when you leave; the other volunteers, those kids, and even our cab driver, Obey, became our family and saying goodbye hurt like hell.