All Hands and Hearts

Helping out at Houston Texas after the hurricane really opened my eye. The effects of Harvey was devastating and heartbreaking to look at, yet while volunteering to help out families clean up i felt as if this disaster brought the community together and made it a stronger bond.This really made me feel a sense of joy from how even though Harvey has caused many to suffer from loosing their homes, they gained a bond with the community they never had before.

Villacuri is a hot and sandy place about 45 minutes from Ica and Paracas. It's a small and transient community but we have got to know some of the community members by playing soccer with the masons of the project, visiting the houses of the ladies who do our laundry or cook for us. We have explored Ica, Huacachina, Paracas and places further afield.

My husband and I had a rewarding experience volunteering in Barrio Chino, Villacuri, Peru. Meeting and working alongside staff and volunteers from many different countries, various ages, races, religions and cultures was a delight! We were all there for a common purpose: to rebuild a kindergarten school in a resilient way so that when another earthquake occurs, the children will be safe and secure. We all worked very hard while enjoying each other's company. At the end of each day we were able to rest and reflect on the day's work and plan for the next day. Many of us traveled to nearby towns on our days off to experience the culture and communities. I was inspired by the dedication and commitment of the many young people who were in transition in their lives and were finding purpose in helping others. Jim and I are older and retired and were able to contribute in a constructive way to the project. I would recommend volunteering to anyone at any age. There are many different tasks to choose from. You may be surprised by your endurance and stamina. You will learn how to use tools and perform tasks and this will build your confidence. There's no time like the present to serve others and to show love!