A Broader View was incredible in preparing us for this journey. I was very nervous, but ABV took us step by step through all the processes we need to ready us for this trip. Also, we felt very comfortable asking questions and they were immediately responsive. Sarah, Oliver and their staff portrayed a very good picture of what we would be experiencing, thank you!

Volunteer in Ghana

HOW WAS THE LOCAL COORDINATOR/STAFF AND THE SUPPORT PROVIDED IN-COUNTRY?

Excellent, even before our arrival, we were communicating with the Founder and Director, Shadrack Donkor. We were provided a volunteer facility and were served delicious native meals

WHAT WAS THE MOST SURPRISING THING YOU EXPERIENCED?

Program: Though located in a poverty area, the program was extremely well developed and executed. We were fortunate to arrive the last week of school and shadow the teachers. We also were included in the school end celebration which strongly emphasized their stated goals of education.

Host Family: We were fortunate to stay in a newly opened volunteer facility and were served our meals. It was a short walk (20) minutes to the orphanage. The Director, Shadrack Donkor and his sister, Eugenia, were incredibly gracious and we were warmly received ad most accommodated.

Country: We had met so many people from Ghana prior to our visit, but we were still amazed of the grace and caring of the Ghana people. So proud of their country and heritage and shared knowledge so generously. We were able, thanks to our hosts, to visit of some of the area.

WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING THING YOU EXPERIENCED?

Program: Wanting to support their program and make a difference during our visit. They have a wonderful foundation and we wanted to be guided by their expectations. They were very generous and gracious and understood. We were assimilated into their program immediately, and for me, I had a wonderful mentor while assisting with kindergarten – Mrs. Oretha Quaye.

Host Family: To prepare less food! They really wanted us to have a great experience and spoiled us! The other challenge was attempting to be as gracious as they were. You cannot explain how well they served us in all capacities.

Country: The Ghana people and especially our hosts are incredible individuals that care deeply and honestly with their gestures and hears. These comments ran into the “country” section. Again, there is a kindness and courtesy that I have not experienced in other travels. Even while traveling in cabs, the driver’s honk their horns to allow someone to go before them and not in aggravation, amazing!

ANY TIPS FOR FUTURE VOLUNTEERS?

1. For clothing, we traveled in August and the weather was 70-80 degrees, pants, capris and shirts sufficed (always have your knee covered)
2. Personal items: Usual first aid, aspirin, etc. and bug spray, etc.
3. Donations: We brought 2 large suitcases of school supplies, books, cand, etc. If you are able, you can ask Shadrack if you could help them with a particular area – We were able to buy water for the orphanage and treat the kids to the beach!

PERSONAL PARAGRAPH ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE (PROGRAM TESTIMONIAL)

This has been an experience beyond any of my expectations! The love of the Director, staff and especially the children was overwhelming! There was no adjustment, just pure acceptance and lots and lots of love. Whatever we did was genuinely appreciated. Tears will be flowing when we leave….

Volunteer Refugee Camp

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR ACCOMMODATION?

Accommodation: the volunteer facility worked very well and we were near Eugenia if we needed anything.

Meals: The meals were plentiful and delicious! Eugenia served our meals and they were very generous.

Security: We always felt safe at our volunteer facility, school and orphanage. Shadrack and Eugenia always accompanied us on trips which was appreciated and their presence and explanations of the area was invaluable.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF THIS TRIP?

Program: The children! I was worried there would be a few days before they felt comfortable with us, but they ran and hugged us the first day! Being able to assist Shadrack in his goals while we were there.

Host family: Everything! Shadrack, Eugenia and her children, Jennifer (7) and Nissi (2) were absolutely incredible! They made us feel welcome from the moment we met them and were consistent always with their caring and graciousness.

Country: Ghana is a country that welcomes you with open arms and heart – everyone we met added to our comfort and feeling welcomed.

HOW WAS A BROADER VIEW (ABV) SUPPORT PRIOR TO TRAVELLING?

HOW DID YOU FIND ABROADERVIEW WEBSITE AND WHAT KEYWORDS DID YOU USE?

I was introduced to abroaderview by my friend Monica who had made a research because we had a goal we wanted to volunteer abroad and the website kept on coming up as a good agency.

ARE YOU WILLING TO SPEAK TO OTHER POTENTIAL ABV VOLUNTEERS?

Absolutely!