Home away from home

This program is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. When I first arrived, it was the middle of the night, and the hostel seemed questionable, but as I adjusted to my African family, I grew to love the staff and the place like home. It’s Africa, so yes...sometimes things were a little slow to happen, and yes...sometimes I encountered struggles that I’ve never had to face in the past, but that is all part of the experience. The challenges that I overcame with my fellow volunteers just made our bond so much stronger. The cooks put their heart and soul into their food even though they are there sun up to sun down cooking. The house mamas...or sisters, care for the volunteers as if they are family, and the night guards are like dad’s looking out for their kids.♥️ Dinner time was one of my favorites times, as some of the staff would stay after to play games with the volunteers. It made for such a light, happy atmosphere. I did the medical program for 5 months, and I did an orphanage/women’s center for the last month. St. Elizabeth hospital was life changing. I worked with Dr. Quaker for a few months in the pediatric ward before switching wards, and I learned SO MUCH from that women...not just medical information, but she also taught me about the tribes in the area and their traditions and beliefs and how it correlates with the health of the child. The cases I experienced here were like nothing I would ever experience at home. Some were definitely “heavy,” but that is a challenge every healthcare provider will have to eventually face. The orphanage and women’s center were also amazing. I was at Enjevai Orphanage and Faraja Women’s center. Both the kids and the young moms were such a joy to work with. Despite their circumstances, they came each day with smiling faces. It really puts life into perspective. Overall, I think anyone looking to volunteer with an open mind should book it in Arusha, Tanzania. Don’t go there expecting to improve how they do things, but instead, learn from them and how they survive with limited resources. I promise...you won’t want to leave.💛 It’s home away from home.