What inspired you to work for Tekoa Learning Centers?
I was inspired to work at Tekoa Learning Centers because they are providing services to an underdeveloped population of kids. My heart has always been drawn to serving kids with disabilities in poverty-stricken areas and Tekoa offers that 100%. On top of that, I was able to learn Spanish and culture, which helps me grow as a person!
Why do you do what you do?
I work at Tekoa Learning Centers because it gives me purpose. I'm doing something bigger than myself. When I see growth in our students, it gives me the strength and encouragement to continue to love and work with them and their families with my absolute best!
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is seeing students accomplish a goal or seeing progress in something they have been working on! When I hear a story or positive feedback from parents or others it reminds me that our work with these children is important, and that it is working!
What are some current projects you are working on?
We are currently working on expanding. Our dream is to start multiple learning centers. After three years of being in Monterrey, Mexico we are hoping to start a new location shortly. With that being said, we are in need of volunteers and a director to take over our current location.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
I would tell myself to be patient and give yourself grace. It's not easy to move to a new place and automatically feel comfortable. It takes time to build relationships, learn a new culture, and understand your role in that place. Don't be so hard on yourself in the process!
What makes your organization special?
We are special because we work with a special population of people. Working with kids is hard. Working with kids with disabilities is harder, but that makes the work more meaningful! The culture and values we teach and live with are so unique and special that whomever we come in contact with will leave feeling loved and valued!
Why should someone choose Tekoa Learning Centers over competitors?
You should choose us because we are unique! There are not enough opportunities to serve and love these special types of kids. On top of that, we are small which means you get to build amazing and meaningful relationships with the Tekoa Team, our students and their families! If you choose us, you will fall in love with the family type community that you will form!
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
We exist to recruit, raise, and release leaders committed to establishing learning centers that unleash children with disabilities to change the world. We keep working towards it by expanding to another location and by actively seeking out staff and volunteers!
How do you help support participants?
We help participants with travel expenses, offer free Spanish classes, and with finding living accommodations. With years of experience, we offer important common knowledge of the ins and outs of our city and the culture.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
The world has so much to offer and we will never get to experience the beauty of it until we get out of our comfort zones and explore! You will grow as a person when you travel and experience new cultures!
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
Learning a new language not only develops your cognitive learning skills, but it also opens the door to meet and build relationships with millions of new people!
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Going abroad will only make you a better person! I can guarantee that if you go abroad, you will go back as a new person with so much more to offer your world and community!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
When you travel with a purpose it has so much more meaning. Not only will you enjoy seeing new places, but you will also leave with memories and stories that you will be able to tell generations to come!