Volunteering opportunities in  Nepal

1.- Hi Tell us about you:

Full name (first and last): Elok Cheung

What do you do (study or work, where): 5^th year Dental student at Hong Kong

Where are you from (city and country): Hong Kong

1.1. – Why did you choose to volunteer in Nepal Kathmandu, what program(s) are you doing and why?

Why Nepal: I choose Nepal because I’ve never been to this country and I know that it is very different to my home town. I wanted to learn more about their historical monuments and the way they practice Dentistry.

What program: Volunteering at a Dental Hospital in Kathmandu.

Why this program: As a Dental student I would like to learn more about how Dentistry is practiced in Nepal and whether there are any similarities and differences. Also I wanted to compare public awareness of local people with patients back in Hong Kong and weather the problems they face are similar or not. Moreover I wanted to expand my knowledge from the local Dentists and help treat people in need.

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 

Volunteer Program: I found that the most surprising thing is that the way of practice in terms of technique and materials used were rather similar to Hong Kong. Also I was surprised by how friendly the Doctors and staff were and they were eager to get to know us and exchange knowledge as much as we were eager to know them.

Host Family: One of the most surprising things was how generous and selfless our host family was. They would always be there for advice when we needed them and even invited us to participate in their festivals with their family. Although I was miles away from home I felt familiarity and love that this family gave me like I was one of their own.

Country: Definitely the people I did not expect so many people in Nepal to be so friendly. In Hong Kong, it is uncommon to talk to strangers and we held our guards up. However we found to realize that these local strangers would go out of their way to help us and translate for us. I was also surprised at how festive the people were and how much effort they would pay into their preparation and we were captivated by their unique traditions.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 

Volunteer Program: As we came during a festival season. The number of patients who came was much less than expected. So we did not have much practical work to do. But again we get to do some independent treatments.

Host Family: In terms of host family, ABV provided us with a comprehensive guide and we were prepared. I was actually impressed with the facilities here.

Country: The most difficult things we encountered were traffic and pollution. After the big earthquake in 2015 many of the roads were left with bumps and cracks which made the ride rather slow and sometimes uncomfortable. I was also surprised at seeing how many people they can fit into a local micro van as there were people bending over another to get on. However, these difficulties soon became rather endearing and we too found ourselves enjoying our daily transportation. The air pollution in Kathmandu is also quite bad so I would definitely wear a mask when the windows are down.

4. Any tips for future volunteers….

Clothing: As we came in summer, I recommend wearing short sleeve t-shirts and a pair of long, loose trousers. If you would like to purchase local wear there’re many shops where you can do so at an affordable price.

Sightseeing: You should definitely take the Domestic flight to see Mount Everest. It is a breath taking view and it was worth every second of the flight. It was truly one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen.

Donations: Make sure you donate to credible organizations because there’re many people who try to scam you on the streets. You can even bring resources to donate to government hospitals as they do lack certain necessities e.g. gloves, masks etc. Although we did not visit any orphanages during our short stay, you can bring toys and books to donate to them and leave them at the home stay for someone to collect.

Laundry/internet: We mainly hand washed our clothes and the breeze in Nepal means that they dry quickly. The internet at the homestay was fast and consistent, but if you’re worried Sudhir can bring you to buy a phone card with a data plan.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 

a.- City/town: Be careful of your personal belongings, especially money because 1000 rupees may not be worth much to you, but it is a lot to some local people. Although it is quite rare to have your things stolen, try not to flash your valuable around.

b.- Weather: The weather is good here most of the time, but roads can get quite muddy after rain. So bring some waterproof and less easily tainted shoes.

c.- Local People: Bring a torch if you plan to walk out at night as there’re not many streetlights. Also we’ve found that you can bargain for better currency exchange rates, so bring bigger bank notes as they can give you good rates, if you have USD 100 or 50.

d.- Tours: If you’re unsure where to go spend your weekend, you can always ask the host for advice. It’s advisable to rent a car for the days as saves you the time of bargaining and find transportation.

Volunteering in Nepal

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 

The trip to Kathmandu is one to remember. Throughout these 2 weeks, I have not only grown as a dental student, but as a person. The people we have met here have greatly impacted my experience and I find myself enjoying the stay more and more each day. Perhaps we were not able to do much volunteer work because we stayed for short time , but we gained a lot of insight into the local practices here and We were able to do an extraction case, a minor oral surgery, some scaling and impression, which were enjoyable experiences. We even got to observe an enucleation of cyst, which never seen before.

I found myself looking forward to seeing different procedures and talking to the staff every day. I have never felt such compassion in a community and it is very different to our urban cit life, but I find their laid back way of life refreshing change. For sure, I would like to be back in Nepal in a few years time and I’m looking forward to seeing their reconstruction and development. I wish Nepal and its wonderful people all the best.

Volunteers can also join the Nepalese language immersion course if they would like to communicate better with the patients.

7. How would you describe your: 

Accommodation: Much better than expected! Everything is clean and the rooms are spacious. The toilet is also much cleaner than any ones you can find outside. If there’s anything you need, the host family will try their best to assist you.

Meals (favorite): Chicken butter masala, JU JU Dhau from Bhaktapur & Mutton sha hl karma were amongst my favorites. The home stay also offers western style breakfast in case you’re feeling a little homesick!

Security: I had not felt any sense of danger during my stay here. Especially in the home stay, we didn’t even feel the need to lock away our personal belongings. Although, as mentioned before, try not to flash your valuable around too often in public.

Host family: The best I can ask for! Sudhir and Sarita were always so welcoming and treated us with kindness. They would cook delicious meals for us every day and let us eat before they did. They would always make sure we are safe and we know how to get around the city. Their toddler is also very, very cute!

8. What was your memory of this trip? 

Program: The thing that I would remember most about the program are the Local Dentists and staff who are amazingly friendly. They not only share their own experiences with us, they would also ask about our own practices. We could see their dedication to their profession and we admire their work ethics. The staffs were also very nice and frequently bought us local food to try. Without these generous and kind hearted people, the experience would’ve certainly been very different. I’m thankful for all the fantastic people I’ve met and I hope to keep in contact with them and allow us to show them our country and return the favor.

Host Family: My favourite memory was celebrating Teej (Girl’s Festival) with the family. They took us out to shop for nice dresses and gave us beautiful bangles and taught us their traditional dances. By the end of the night, we were exhausted as we danced the night away. I can feel just how close their families are here and how much they value tradition. This experience was a highlight of my trip and I felt as if I was one of them and I had so much fun.

Country: My favourite memory was seeing Mount Everest on the flight, and also integrating into the local community. As we approach the end of our stay, I look back at all the first time experiences I have had here. After 2 weeks, we’ve slowly changed ourselves and our expectations and we find our difficulties & turn into everyday normal life. I never thought I would be used to the culture here, but I can truly say I will miss this place when I return home. There’s so much I can write about but I can tell you that it won’t be the same from you experiencing if yourself.

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country? Be as detailed as possible.

Airport: Sudhir was already waiting for us right at the entrance and recognized us before we even stepped out of the exit. Although we arrived late at night, he was very prepared and helped us organize transportation back to his home.

Orientation day: Our orientation day was an unforgettable one. We experienced public transport for the first time and we visited many local temples and main tourist attractions. We got to familiarize ourselves with the city, other volunteers and the hosts.

Daily Support: Sudhir would check up on us every day to make sure we’re fine. We also experienced some difficulties when we went out and needed some advice and transportation and the host family is always just a phone call away.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to

traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  

Very detailed and sufficient. They also respond to any enquiries very quickly.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 

Yes, definitely!

Volunteer Ecuador

1- How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?
Both coordinators were knowledgeable, professional, responsible and very kind. The girls felt that they understood how to connect to them as teens.

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?
It was impressive how nice and helpful everyone was across the board.

3- What was most difficult to experience?
I would have to say stomach sickness due to change of food and water. This was very uncomfortable.

4- Any tips for future volunteers… (Clothing, travel, personal items, donations)
Pack light versatile clothing and should include waterproof shoes and jacket. Bring items you need like sunscreen, insect repellant, toiletries, anything else you may need from the states. The brands we are use to are not available in Ecuador.

I would ask to communicate with someone where you are volunteering to find out what donations they may need in advance.

5- Other things volunteers should know:
a. Bring a small laundry detergent so you can hand wash clothes. Clothing gets damp this time of year, so this will keep everything fresh

b. If your stomach does not feel well go right to pharmacy to get medications. They are pretty effective.

Volunteering in Ecuador

6- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):

I would recommend volunteering with A Broader View because they offer a broad range of volunteering opportunities not just all over Ecuador but all over the world. The staff are all very knowledgeable and accommodating. They were very willing to work with up in constructing a program that worked for us given our tight timeframe. Most of all we felt taken care of which is important when you are so far away from home is a foreign environment.

7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security (e: host family, on-site, shared)

The accommodations were safe, comfortable and meals were well balanced and nutritious.

8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
The children were adorable and eager to work with us. We brought many English books translated into Spanish which they could not wait to get their hands on. Their enthusiasm was priceless.

9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

The support was very good in preparation for travel.

10 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Yes anytime!

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. 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?

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!

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!

Volunteer Honduras:

1.-How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided in-country?

The coordinator was great and made it easy to adapt to the daily lifestyle of the country. If I didn’t have Refael helping me things would’ve been much more difficult to figure out and I would have most likely been lost when trying to adapt to the conditions of the country. However with his help he made this very easy.  

2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

At the volunteer program: I was surprised that the doctors actually allowed me to assist in procedures and even administer local anesthesia and extract teeth while under very close supervision. I thought I would only be cleaning tools and helping with patients. 

 At the accommodation: I was surprised that the house had fast wifi and internet because in the orientation guide I received, it informed me not to expect this.

 About the country. I was surprised at how beautiful the country was. I had seen pictures of La Ceiba beforehand and it looked like a very urban environment although it was very beautiful and green as well. 

ABV: we tell volunteer to come with not expectations, this makes it easier to adapt, many host families dont have wifi or internet, but every city where we have programs have cybercafe at the malls, or downtown. So if you get wifi or internet at the host family thats an extra bonus and you can pay to the host family for internet +- US$15 a week.

3- What was most difficult to experience?

At the volunteer program: The most difficult experience at the program was translating the medical terminology used in the US to Spanish. This wasn’t too complicated although I didn’t know any of the names of the dental tools in Spanish so when a doctor asked for them I was lost in the beginning. Before volunteering download a cheatsheet with all the tools you will use in country in Spanish.

At the accommodation: the most difficult thing at the house I stayed in was that there was no AC in my room. As a result it was very hot at night which made it difficult to sleep at times. 

 The country: in general the language was most difficult about the country. I know a lot of Spanish words although I’m not fluent so sometimes people would approach me saying things I didn’t understand. I had a translator most of the time so it wasn’t that difficult although things would’ve been easier if I was fluent in Spanish.

4- Any tips for future volunteers…

Clothing: bring light clothing that you would wear in hot weather. It is very hot and humid.

Donations: bring dental or medical supplies if you have them. The local hospital I did my project at here had little equipment so if you have some to donate it would help out a lot. 

Weather: pack lightweight clothes that you would wear in hot weather.   

4.1- Other things volunteers should know:

a.- It is extremely hot and humid down here and it is likely that the house you stay in won’t have AC and only a small fan.

b.- the local public clinic that has primitive supplies and resources. If you have any to donate bring them because it would go a long way

c.- The city is not dangerous as long as you avoid the bad parts of town which the coordinator will tell you about. Honduras gets a bad rap on the internet because people say it’s dangerous but if you have common sense and stay in line nothing bad will happen and you shouldn’t let fear stop you from coming.

d.- When you get Honduras currency, try to get small bills like 20s, 50s, and 100s. All taxis are 25 lampiras which is about 1.2 dollars but they won’t accept big bills so try to carry around only smaller ones.

Volunteer Pre Dental

5- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):

The program was truly amazing and much better than I expected. Every aspect of it from the accommodation, food, country, and the project itself were excellent. I leaned a lot about dentistry especially tooth extractions during the project. I even got to have first person experiences assisting the doctors. This is great practice for me as I want to study dentistry in the future. Back in the states, I couldn’t receive the same practice and assistance that this program had to offer. 

6- How would you describe your accommodation, meals and security:

The accommodation was great. It wasn’t fancy or anything but it was a nice comfortable middle class home.  It also had fast internet which was very important because it allowed me to contact my family every night back in the states. The meals were also very good. A different Honduran dish was served everyday and I got plenty to eat. The security was also top notch. There was a gate in front of the house which made us feel very safe. Also, the neighborhood was locked up during the night which also added to the security as well. I never felt afraid or threatened here. 

7- What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Program: my favorite memory was pulling my first tooth. Obviously the doctors assisted me a lot although with their help I was able to learn a lot about procedures and how to do them.

Country: my favorite memory of the country was visiting a place 20 minutes outside of the city called Pico Bonito. It was incredibly beautiful and in the middle of the rainforest. It was also on the river and very secluded. I have never been to a place like that before and I would recommend it to future volunteers if they have downtime.

8.- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

Communication (Phone/emails/Online chat): I was able to easily communicate with ABV US and ABV Honduras by chat online and WhatsApp before the trip which put my dad and I at ease as we were able to ask questions before coming to the country. 

Website Information: The website information was very good because it made it very easy to register and afterwards told me exactly what to expect before arriving. 

9 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Yes if they have questions I’d be happy to answer them.

10 – Can you tell us how did you find or know about A Broader View? 

I found out through a friend named Gianncarlo. I really wanted to do a dentistry project because that is what I want to study and he told me about how he has done various projects with ABV in different countries they offer and ultimately recommended it to me. 

Volunteer Chile La Serena Review Valerie Beland & Ericka Bernard Orphanage Program (In French) from A Broader View on Vimeo.

Volunteer Chile La Serena Review Valerie Beland Orphanage/teaching program

1.- Why did you choose to volunteer in Chile La Serena, what program(s) are you doing and why?
Why Chile: J’ai choisi le programme que j’aime et ça a adonné à être offert au Chili.
What program: Orphanage Assistance, Teaching and Education 
Why this program: J’ai décidé de venir au Chili pour m’occuper des bébés à l’orphelinat. Je voulais venir parce que je savais que mon aide serait bénéfique au développement des enfants orphelins qui n’ont malheureusement pas toute l’attention dont ils ont besoin.  J’ai choisi Abroaderview car ils m’ont dit que la proximité entre l’orphelinat et la famille d’acceuil (confimée par Abroaderview) est de moins de 15 minutes en autobus/collectivo taxi.  C’était frustant d’apprendre une fois arrivée au Chili que la distance entre ces deux endroits est de plus de deux heures allez-retour. 

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced while in the program? 
Program: Le programme était vraiment amusant et enrichissant. L’horaire de bénévolat était accommodant et si j’étais fatiguée, j’avais toujours l’option de terminer plus tôt.  Je pensais que j’allais faire plus de bénévolat avec les bébés mais puisque seulement deux personnes bénévole pouvaient être à Hogar Redes, il m’était interdit d’offrir de l’aide là.  J’ai passé la plus grande majorité du temps dans la classe de la Profesora Fabiola et de son assistante Patricia.  Les enfants étaient tous attachants, souriants et enthousiastes a l’idée d’apprendre des mots en anglais et en français.  J’ai aimé les aider avec leurs travaux scolaires, apprendre l’espagnol davantage et assister l’enseignante avec ses leçons.
Host Family: Après une journée de voyagement pour enfin arriver au Chili, Vilma (host mom) nous a acceuilli moi et quatre de mes amies avec une grosse caresse à l’aéroport de La Serena.  Elle s’est préocuppée de nous pendant notre séjour au Chili.  Elle nous a amené à la plage, elle nous a fait visiter un phare, le centre-ville de La Serena, la Cruz et bien plus.  C’était une bonne guide touristique pendant notre sejour!  Elle nous a aidé a planifier les excursions que nous avons fait durant les fins de semaine.  En plus, elle nous a reconduit et cherché à l’orphelinat à tous les jours.  C’était vraiment gentil de sa part.
Country: Les chiliens mangent du pain pour déjeuner, dîner et souper! Dans le désert de l’Atacama, c’est très très vaste. Il y a de grosses montagnes et pleins de cactus. Les routes loin des villes sont comme dans les films parce que ce sont des chemins de terre très étroits avec des tournants très serrés. Le maisons et les magasins au centre-ville de La Serena semblent tous vieux.

3. What was the most difficult thing you experienced while in the program? 
Program: Ce que j’ai trouvé le plus difficile était la barrière linguisique. Même si j’ai suivi un cours d’espagnol avant d’arriver au Chili, ce n’était pas assez suffisant pour comprendre les chiliens. Les enseignants parlent rapidement en espagnol et les élèves parlent encore plus vite que les enseignants!  Les enfants où je faisais du bénévolat n’étaient pas très fortunés et c’était triste de voir qu’ils n’ont même pas le luxe d’avoir du papier de toilette dans les salles de bains.
Host Family: Ce qui était le plus dur était d’essayer de comprendre ce que Vilma (host mom) disait en espagnol.  Puisque j’étais avec mes amies, on réusissaient chacune à comprendre un mot en espagnol et à définir la phrase qui nous était dit.
Country: Très peu de chiliens parlent en anglais alors il faut s’assurer d’avoir l’application de Google Translate sur son téléphone!  

4. Any tips for future volunteers….
Clothing: -Apporter des vêtements chauds car la nuit il fait très froid.  J’ai même dû dormir avec mon manteau pendant plusieurs nuits. 

-Apporter un manteau en duvet.

-Apporter des petites bottes chaudes

Sightseeing: La plage de La Serena est longue et parsemée de beaux coquillages que l’on peut ramasser.  La vue du haut de la Cruz est magnifique à Coquimbo.  Les couchers de soleil sont beaux à regarder.  Une expédition dans le désert de l’Atacama te permet de voir les cactus, les montagnes avec de la neige dessus, les differents animaux au Chili, etc
Donations: Les enfants se servent de papiers et de ruban adhésif pour faire une balle de soccer et jouer au soccer à la récréation.  Il adorerait recevoir un ballon de soccer et des jouets pour l’extérieur tels que des cerceaux et des cordes à sauter.
Laundry/internet: J’avais accès a l’internet sans fil chez ma host mom. Il y avait aussi une laveuse et une sécheuse mais puisque je me suis amenée beacoup de vêtements, je n’ai pas eu besoin de faire du lavage.

5. Other things volunteers should know about: 
a.- City/town: Je recommanderais d’aller au centre-ville de La Serena en groupe.  Je ne me suis jamais promenée seule pendant mon séjour au Chili. Aller marcher sur le bord de la plage à La Serena est une activité à faire définitivement.  J’ai aussi aimé la vue paranomique en haut de la croix à Coquimbo.  Il y a beaucoup de chiens errants alors il est mieux de se tenir loin d’eux et de ne pas les toucher.
b.- Weather: L’hiver, (août) il fait froid au Chili.  La température est d’environ 10-15 degrés celsius. Il faut des sweaters et un manteau en duvet pour rester au chaud.  Certaines journées, j’ai dû mettre ma tuque et mes gants tellement il faisait froid.
c.- Local People: Les Chiliens sont gentils et souriants.  Les enseignants à mon école étaient très généreux et ils m’offraient toujours de la nourriture.  Les chiliens ont l’habitude de se donner des caresses et un bec sur la joue pour se saluer et se dire aurevoir.
d.- Tours: Apporter de l’argent d’extra pour pouvoir faire des excursions la fin de semaine.  L’organisation EcoTour offre des excursions très amusantes.

6. Personal paragraph (volunteer program testimonial), detail as possible: 
J’ai aimé mon expérience de bénévolat au Colegio et à Hogar. Les élèves et les enseignants étaient tous extrêmement gentils.  Les journées ont passé tellement vite quand j’étais au Collegio.  Chaques soirs, j’avais hâte au lendemain matin pour aller retrouver les élèves et la Profesora Fabiola.  J’ai rencontré plusieurs nouvelles personnes extraordinaires.  Je vais revenir au Canada avec ma valise pleine de dessins que les enfants ont coloriés pour moi! J’espère juste que ma valise ne sera pas au dessus de la limite de poids.   Ce voyage humanitaire m’a vraiment permis de connaître la culture chilienne, de faire de nouvelles rencontre,  de visiter des endroits magnifiques et d’apprécier le Chili. Je suis très contente d’avoir fait les démarches pour venir faire du bénévolat en Amérique du Sud.

7. How would you describe your: 
Accommodation: La maison de Vilma est propre, belle et sécuritaire. J’ai partagé une chambre dans la maison de Vilma avec une australienne.  Cela m’a permis de faire sa connaissance et d’apprendre a la connaître.  L’eau de la douche était chaude.  Il faisait froid dans la maison de Vilma mais c’est normal puisqu’au Chili, les maisons n’ont pas de chauffage. 
Meals (favorite): Vilma nous a servi des céréales et du pain pour déjeuner à tous les jours pendant notre séjour.  Elle nous faisait un dîner (sandwich au jambon ou au salami) à tous les jours.  Les soupers étaient differents chaque soir.  J’étais très surprise que les chiliens mangent autant de pains.
Security: Il y a une grosse clôture autour de la maison de Vilma.  Cette clôture a des piques très pointus alors je ne me suis pas inquietée pour ma securité lorsque j’étais dans sa maison.  Je ne m’iquietais pas pour ma sécurité lorsque j’étais au centre-ville car j’étais avec mes quatre amies en tout temps. 
Host family: Vilma est très gentille et elle s’est bien occupée de nous.  

Volunteer Reviews

8. What was your memory of this trip? 
Program: La deuxième journée lorsque je suis arrivée à l’école pour faire du bénévolat, les vingt-six élèves de ma classe sont venus me faire une immense caresse.  J’étais tellement heureuse car je me sentais un petit peu destabilisée dans ce nouveau pays avec des personnes inconnnues qui parlent une langue différente. Après cette journée là, tout est entré dans l’ordre et je me suis bien amusée au Chili.  Pendant les récréations, les enfants jouaient avec moi et je parlait aussi aux enseigantes  Le chien de l’école (Princesa) nous attendaient tous les matins derrière la clôture de l’école, prêt a nous saluer! 
Host Family: La journée de la fête à mon amie, Vilma lui a acheté un gros gâteau aux oranges, des chips et du Coke. On a chanté bonne fête en français, espagnol et anglais.
Country: Vilma nous a amené à la plage après une journée de bénévolat….Mes amies se sont baignées dans l’océan.  Lorsque nous sommes allés à Pisco Elqui, il y avait plein d’orangers et puisque j’aime beaucoup les oranges, je me suis regalée!

9. How was the local ABV Coordinator, the staff and the support provided in-country?
Airport:  Vilma est venue nous chercher en temps à l’aéroport.  Le transfert de l’aéroport à sa maison s’est très bien passé.  
Orientation day: Vilma nous a reconduit à l’orphelinat/école et elle nous a présenté à la directrice de l’établissement.  Carla, la directrice nous a fait faire le tour de l’école.  C’était une bonne orientation pour la première journée. 
Daily Support: Vilma était là pour moi à tous les jours si j’avais des questions ou quoi que ce soit.  Elle était une bonne source de support pendant mon séjour au Chili.  Les enseignantes à l’école m’ont acceuillie comme si j’étais une des leurs.

10. How was the information you received from ABV prior to traveling? (Emails, website, support) was there anything missing or should be included to prepare other volunteers?  
C’était agréable de pouvoir utiliser le chat sur le site internet de Abroaderview afin d’obtenir des réponses rapidement.

11. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers about your volunteer experience? 
Certainement.

Volunteer Ghana

1. How was the Local ABV Coordinator/staff and the support provided in-country?

Volunteer Ghana: The local coordinators were wonderful and very helpful. They were always available to answer questions and truly strived to serve all of our needs to the best of their ability. They always maintained contact and I never felt concerned or confused about my schedule or day-to-day activities

2. What was the most surprising thing you experienced?

-Program: the volunteer experience at the clinic is unlike any other I have participated in previously. It is unorganized. I was mostly left on my own to figure out what I should do to help. This is a factor of the disorganization of the clinic and not an issue of the program itself.

-Host family: I went in with no expectations, so I was not particularly surprised by anything. They were warm, welcoming and very helpful.

-Country: I knew Ghana would be a unique experience but is truly like nothing else I have ever encountered. I guess the most surprising thing is the overwhelming emphasis placed on my being white. It is inescapable and colors every action of others towards me.

3. What was the most challenging thing you experienced?

`Program: as I said previously, the disorganization of the local clinic made it very difficult to make myself more useful. More often than not I was left alone to figure out what I should do. Jump in and get into good use, be proactive.

`Host family: I had no challenges in the host family

`Country: living in a developing nation is sub-Saharan Africa is not easy after the comforts of the developed world. It is very hot, the sun is deadly strong and access to many resources is limited. This is not unexpected however and the accommodations were much better than I anticipated. I think I struggled most with feeling cut-off from the rest of the world as it can be very isolating to be in a strange place where you do not speak the language, and thats what is all about.

Volunteer Ghana

4. Any tips for future volunteers… (clothing, travel, personal items, donations)

1. Sun protection is critical, bring sunscreen, also bring cooling towels

2. Bring lots of filling snacks.

3. Gloves, hand sanitizers, masks, etc. Read the ABV guide

5. Personal paragraph about the experience

Overall my experience in Ghana was one that I enjoyed. My host family was wonderful; the locals are friendly and the landscapes are breathtaking. I cannot wait to come back to Ghana as a traveler to see more of the country. The amount of work done in the clinic changes based on what area of the clinic you are working in, as your local coordinator to help you with a rotation in the clinic.

6. How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security, friendliness, quality others?

Accommodation: fantastic, much better than I expected.

Meals: delicious and satisfying

Security: I never felt that myself or my belongings were unsafe.

7. What was your favorite memory of this trip?:

Program: helping to save a newborn while working in the maternity ward.

Host family: hiking to the umbrella rock and the water fall.

Country: seeing Accra at night from the mountains, Boti falls and the mountains in general

8. How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

I received very little information and in fact did not know how little until I spoke with my fellow volunteer and she showed me several emails that I had never received (spam folder perhaps). I originally applied for the Volta Region, but I was accepted to this one with no explanation. I thought I may have applied to the wrong program until my fellow volunteer told me she had been informed it was full. She received all the information I did not (didn’t call to check).

–Emails go out to all volunteers automatically (at least 10) if it goes to spam folder is responsibility of the volunteers to double check (as stated in the website when applying), also in the ABV account you are responsible to download the volunteer guide (with all the details of the program you are assigned to).

**ABV has the discretion to change the program (before you pay the deposit) when you are applying (this happens if you don’t have the requirements for a location, or we are full or conditions have changed, you will see this change before you pay your deposit, if you had any questions you should have email/call us any questions). Always check spam folder or call our office if you have any issue (before, during and after your trip), As we can see you didn’t check your spam folder and didn’t contact us prior completing your account. We also send emails while you are in country.. for future volunteers contact us by email, chat online, toll free number you have all the tools to be in contact with us 24/7.

1. 1. Who did you find Abroaderview website and what keywords did you use.

Googled “EMT volunteer opportunities abroad”

9. Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Most definitely

Volunteer in Belize

1.-How was the local ABV Coordinator and the support provided while you Volunteer Belize ?

Everyone was very kind and welcoming, especially the person who picked us up from the airport. He helped us since we reach Belize and made the country feel like home.

2- What was the most positive surprise you experienced?

At the program: The work ethic of the handyman on the site was positive and encouraging. He helped us acclimate to the culture and working mode.

At the accommodation: A working fridge

About the country: The kindness of the people

3- What was most difficult/cultural shock to experience?

At the program: The lack of structure every day, but it worked to our advantage. We were able to create our own experiences.

At the accommodation: The lack of Wifi, only internet at the main office

The country: The environment condition.

4- Any tips for future volunteers, give as many details as possible…

Clothing: Tank tops and shorts, handkerchief (for sweat), breathable clothing, sturdy shoes.

Donations: Summer clothes for the kids, toys, school supplies.

Weather: It is very hot. Pack for summer, pack extra water bottles, pack cooling things (small fan, cool towels) if you have them, bring bugs spray.

4.1-Other things volunteers should know, about what to bring, what to do in country, what to eat, transportation, other:

a.- Try tamales!

b.- Bring super sunscreen.

c.- Buses cost $1 U.S per trip into to city. Ask the staff to show you the ropes.

d.- Go to Caye Caulker

Volunteer Belize Reviews

5- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):

My life has forever changed because of the children of the orphanage and my experiences volunteer Belize. I have not loved every second of it if I am being honest. The heat and the bugs are difficult to accommodate. I really love the friends I have made in Belize. I plan on returning someday.

6- How would you describe your accommodation, meals and security in detail:

It was hard to get used to the culture for the first couple days, the laid back Caribbean attitude is much different than mid-west America. Once I acclimated to that it was simple and safe in the orphanage. We also ate the same type of food often, but going out and switching is an option.

7- What was your favorite memory of this trip?

Program: The kids, most of whom I made strong relationship with.

Country: The beautiful hills of the Cayo district and Caye Caulker.

Tours: Unbelievable Adventures with Daton Ramos, ask Ms. Louise at the orphanage.

8.- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?

Communication (Phone/emails/Online chat):

Helpful, they responded to all of my emails in a very timely Matter.

9 – Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?

Yes!

10 – Can you be specific how did you find or know about A Broader View?

“belize volunteer” in Google. ABV was the first to come up.

Volunteer Belize Orphanage program