Unique experience

I have volunteered with IVHQ several times and without doubt, my experience volunteering in the Cordoba program has been the most impactful and rewarding so far. I selected a placement assisting elders and being in this project coupled with the overall experience of the program thanks to the outstanding service and assistance of the program managers made this a truly unique and memorable experience.

I felt useful every day in my volunteer placement. They received me with open arms and I connected immediately with the placement staff and the beautiful individuals who live in this amazing residence for elders - most of whom have no other place to live or someone to care for them full-time. The staff treats them with such love, compassion and care for all their health and physical needs and well-being while also bringing fun activities to engage in such as reading, music and games. This residence is truly special and the family who built and created this home is simply extraordinary and filled with kindness and a calling to serve those in need. I was treated like family and felt at home every day.

The program in Cordoba is relatively new and I would like to emphasize that because since the first day, absolutely everything ran smoothly, something I have not seen in other programs that have been around for a while. We received the full attention and service of the local program staff at all times. Lichi - who runs the program was absolutely exceptional. She cared for everyone and cheched in with volunteers to ensure they were enjoying their placements and would solve any challenge that would come across for volunteers. Also, when volunteers were interested in doing sightseeing and joining local tours, she would find a way to help everyone during their planning and would go out of her way to make sure volunteers were not only enjoying their placements but also their time in Argentina. I will never forget the kindness with which I was treated by her. Jose and all the staff at the house were also extremely attentive and at the full service of volunteers.
They also cooked every day and made sure our housing arrangements were comfortable and clean. I highly recommend contacting Mabel who has a taxi service and is a wonderful person and professional. We met her through the local program staff. She cared for volunteers and would drive them and pick them up even during her off duty hours. She was always on time and felt like part of the program.

This summary can't do justice to the extraordinary experience I had during my volunteer experience in the Cordoba program. I highly recommend it as definitely the best overall volunteer experience I have ever had. Thanks for such great memories and meaningful experience of service to others.