Volunteers Abroad Reviews and Feedbacks

My Favorite Memory: By far my favorite memory would have to be all the children in the orphanages and their faces when they were able to indulge in the little things we easily take for granted such as bubbles and lollipops. Further, the profound respect the children have for the older people who care for them. Another memory would be the people I had the pleasure of meeting that were so accommodating and sincere in their efforts to make us comfortable.

I was surprised that…. Things were worse than what I imagined them to be. You often hear of people in need and for me the conditions and scarce amount of resources that natives were limited to forever will be implanted in my heart and whole being.

The most difficult thing I experienced was…. Seeing the sadness in children’s eyes and hearing desperation in the adults stories about their everyday lives.

My best received lesson… to never take the little things for granted. Running, drinkable water, clothing, shoes. I have stopped using bottled water since I’ve been back. These are small luxuries, taken for granted by many. Also I have realized that life is too short and to try and live every moment with fullness. The most important lesson is that this experience has made me realize more of the mother I wish to be to my children.

Tip for future volunteers… (Clothing, travel, personal items, donations, sightseeing etc)

I would have to say definitely do not pack as though you will be going out to fancy dinners or beautiful night clubs. Life in Africa is very simple. Dress very comfortable, sweat shorts, tank tops, sweatshirt for morning hours as it could be a bit chilly. Definitely ladies, leave your make up, blow dryer, hairspray at home. It will not be needed, nor will you care to use it.

Personal Paragraph (Testimonial): 

There could never be enough words to describe the experience I have had in Africa. It has forever changed my view on many aspects of life and I feel saddened that my intentions and best interests in Africa didn’t even put a dent in how very much is needed. I will walk away knowing that if I changed but one life, made a baby smile if only for a moment, then as a nurse I have fulfilled my mission. This journey for me is not over. It’s only the beginning of the differences I hope to make in every life that I touch both locally and definitely abroad.

How would you rate your experience working with the ABV staff, both in the USA, and in-country? The ABV staff here in the US was extremely accommodating. Sarah specifically provided a wealth of knowledge that was extremely useful in my travels. I was grateful for all of the literature that was provided and thankful for all of her wonderful conversation pre- trip. In country my biggest sadness was leaving Christopher and Stefano. My wishes for both of them would be that they have a life that will offer both them and their families no suffering. I absolutely walked away deeply saddened that goodbye had come.

How would you describe your accommodation ( ie: host family, on-site, shared housing etc)The accommodations provided were in fact not as bad as I thought. There were times where there was no hot water but it was okay because it was hot enough to take a cold shower. The home was definitely not to my standard of clean but as a veteran of the Armed forces there have been worse conditions. I adapted easily and made friendships that will last a lifetime not only with the ABV staff in country but with other volunteers. The view by the way from the yard was beautiful. (mount kilaminjaro)

Would you recommend this project to other potential medical volunteers?

I would absolutely recommend this trip to anyone in the health profession. It will awaken your senses, and make you want to pack your belongings in the states and move to the area in which help is truly needed. That would be my ultimate hope for those who are able and willing to do just that. If my children were older, that’s where my husband and I would be. The future holds many great things for what we hope to accomplish in Africa or in other third world areas. The rewards of the lives you touch are endless.

Would you be willing to act as an ABV reference for potential volunteers? 

ABSOLUTELY, and without question!

Alexandra Volunteer Abroad in Arusha, Tanzania