encouraging and useful experience

I joined Karama for almost 3 months in July 2011 and I have recommended many friends to consider taking time to visit Palestine and volunteer with Karama as well, as it was a great chance for me and I have met some amazing people. To give you an idea what my time was like.. in the first weeks we had many children in the center as they were having summer holidays. Together with volunteers from all over the world (all very enthusiastic, some little crazy people) and local volunteers we prepared activities, some made lessons, I took some sports and outside-games for my account. Saw some really talents with the football and base-bat and its great to notice how involved they are in football competitions from all over the world (Spanish? Come on..) They knew some German teams as well though.. But it shows how sports can help them see through their daily difficulties, and how a game can give them excitement and positive feeling. Despite the heat we tried to come up with as many activities as possible.

Later on, I became involved in the garden as well, since the center has a very nice plot of land (small though) and they are trying to make the most out of it, growing huge tomato plants for example. We took out some plants, and put in new seeds, and I was happy to help out with this. More great was as well I could take a few kids now and then, and I undertook some activities with them in the garden. Personally I think the nature has a lot to teach us, and it was my idea beforehand to do something with this in Deheishe as well. I felt very much supported by the director in this, as I saw Yasser believes this as well and I think its great kids can interact with nature as well in Karama. Its such a shame the land Palestinians have access to is still declining, since it is an important source of income but also of life importance that people can connect to their land and the earth. Even people in Germany forget that sometimes, but I met people in Deheishe who strongly believe in this and are trying in many ways to protect this land that is so valuable for them. It was personally a very deep experience to meet people who need to fight for their basic rights, and feel so deep connected to the nature..it was a great lessons and encouragement to me!! I also helped a bit with their rooftop gardens Karama established in the camp. These are small tubes with soil, and they gave them to a few family's in the camp so they can grow some vegetables for themselves. Another great way to help people connect with nature again and take hope in seeing a seed grow to a small green piece, than becoming a huge plant carrying zucchini..

All in all, I had a great time which gave me new insights and encouragement to continue with my normal job here in Germany.