Ghana Orphanage Work

Not once did I hesitate in choosing International Volunteer HQ as the organization that would provide me with an unforgettable, life-changing experience. After heavily researching other volunteer abroad programs online, I stumbled across IVHQ and knew it was the perfect fit for me. Not only were the prices extremely affordable compared to similar programs, but the staff was also very accessible and prompt in answering numerous questions and sending out more information. I was also able to get involved in the IVHQ Facebook page, which connected me with previous volunteers and played a big role in my ultimate decision to go with IVHQ.

I knew that I was drawn to orphanage work in Africa, but wasn't sure exactly which country I wanted to work in. After talking to past volunteers via the IVHQ Facebook page and seeing their pictures, going to Ghana simply felt right in my heart. From the moment I signed up for the Ghana Orphanage Work Program, I was confident that IVHQ cared about me and my experience because of the apparent dedication they have to their volunteers. I was given all of the information necessary in order to have a successful volunteer experience in Ghana.

From January to March 2012 I was lucky enough to be placed at the Green Program: Achiase Children's Home located in the Central Region of Ghana. Mama Sarah and Mr. Sam are currently providing for 34 children ages 4-18 years old. The Sams also run Bethel Academy, the school that is located behind the home.

There really is no such thing as a "typical day" when volunteering. Sure, some things we did were routine, but other events come up that you have to deal with spontaneously. Every morning we would wake up early to help bathe the young kids, brush teeth, dress them in their school uniforms, and get them off to school on time. During the school day, the other volunteers and I tried to keep as busy as possible. There is always endless amounts of dishes, laundry, sewing, cleaning, and maintenance to do around the children's home. Sometimes we'd unexpectedly have to care for a sick child or take someone to the clinic. Other times we'd go into town to purchase food or other items that Mama Sarah needed for the children. Part of being a volunteer is being proactive and helping even when help is not asked for. In addition, it was nice to sit down for a while and get to know Mama Sarah and have her share stories with us. When the children got home from school it was like a rush of energy. They would come running back to the house, change into their play clothes, and we'd play games or help with homework. At night we held tutoring groups in order to supplement the children's math and English skills at school. On special occasions the kids loved watching movies or having dance parties. They could so easily put a smile on your face! The younger kids usually end up falling asleep on your lap, while the older kids eventually trickle off to bed on their own.

When 2 months was over and I was forced to realize that I had to leave this wonderful place, I didn't know what to do with myself. The way of life in Ghana became so normal and comfortable to me and I absolutely did not want to say goodbye to Mama Sarah and the children. Through this experience, I learned so much about myself and what's really important in life. After coming back to the United States, the things that were once important to me are just that--"things." The people and places I encountered during my two months in Ghana are forever in my heart and I thank IVHQ for providing me with such a meaningful experience!