There are No Words

There are no words that can adequately describe how AMAZING my experience in Honduras was, thanks to Love Volunteers! Prior to starting my program, Love Volunteers helped me to feel pretty prepared for what was in store for me.

I was able to spend my mornings loving on precious children at an orphanage/daycare, just playing with them and hugging their sweet little faces. I also helped out the teachers there by passing out materials and supervising the children during their activities, helping them when needed. In the afternoon, I was able to take Spanish classes (with a great teacher who really helped me a lot) in order to better be able to communicate successfully with those around me during my trip. After that, I was free to do whatever I pleased - explore the city, see a movie, hang out at the mall, etc.

I was placed with an INCREDIBLE host family who took me in as if I were a part of their family. They were compassionate and loving towards me, and they were patient with my lack of Spanish skills. My host family truly helped with immersion in the culture of La Ceiba.

I was honestly terrified when I first started my program, because it was the first time I had left the United States and I was overwhelmed with being out of my comfort zone. But I absolutely loved my experience!

I'd say the most difficult thing for me was struggling with communication, but I learned a lot from my Spanish lessons and just from talking to my host family and my sweet kids at the orphanage! In La Ceiba, it was normal for the power to go out randomly for hours at a time, but I had some great memories hanging out with my host family on their terrace during the power outages.

For my first experience out of the country, I think it couldn't have possibly gone better. I learned so much from the people around me and I feel that the children enjoyed just simply being loved during my time there. I DEFINITELY plan on returning to Honduras soon, but I might just have to check out programs in another country. I don't think I want to volunteer with any other program, since Love Volunteers has been so helpful and gave me an incredible experience.