I decided to become a volunteer when I heard about the plight of people in Haiti who due to poverty and lack of support were unable to protect their children by providing them with a secure home. As a parent I empathised with those in Haiti who like parents all over the world so badly want the best for their children.
The Haven project promised to provide homes for hundreds of people, many of them children. With support from those who provided the funds as well as from my family I embarked on this journey with a sense of trepidation, not knowing what lay ahead. The magnitude of the project really only truly dawned on me as we crossed the Dominican Republic - Haitian border in the dark of late evening time and were greeted by a UN
convoy to lead us safely to Ouanaminthe.
What began that night could truly be described as an enriching experience and a unique adventure. The volunteers were amongst the warmest and most generous people I have ever met, representing all ages and walks of life. United by one resounding goal, to build 40 houses in one week, we broke into teams lead by capable individuals. Time was not on our side so everybody maintained focus on his/her task and the bond which formed so early on prevented anyone from letting the team down. It was hard but exceptionally rewarding work. We had great fun on the water team ably lead by Sarah and ensured that the heat and humidity did not lead to dehydration of the volunteers and our Haitian colleagues. The joy of waking up to the Haitian dawn, healthy and fit, in the company of new friends with tasks to be done will remain with me forever.
Laughs abounded and craic was had particularly at the wonderful and varied evening entertainment. I never imagined I would enjoy my week in Haiti to the extent that I did, it was enriching, memorable and rewarding – it was a real privilege to be part of a truly wonderful team and project, it is without any hesitation that I would recommend anyone to become part of this evolving journey.
No comments:
Post a Comment