The Best 2 Weeks

I have previously traveled with IVHQ to Kenya and China, but out of the three programs I have participated in, working with UBECI in Quito has been my favorite. Though there are things that could be improved upon from an NGO stand-point, the intent and mission of the UBECI staff and program coordinators is incredible. Jairo and Javier (the group leaders) were amazing with the kids, they always led fun, engaging lessons, and you could tell that they cared very deeply about the kids and their welfare. The kids were so much fun to play with - they were all so happy and so friendly, it was so rewarding to be able to work with them, to teach them, to be examples to them, to play with them, and to learn from them.
With most people, especially with me and the programs I have participated in, I always go in thinking that I am going to do my best to serve the kids and make even the smallest difference in their lives, but after you go home, you realize that the kids made such an impact on you and helped/served you more than you ever thought possible. This stands true for this program - I learned more from working with UBECI than I ever thought possible, and I am eternally grateful for that.