Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya

Volunteering with the women at Kar Geno – Center for Hope was an amazing experience. My name is Selah Eileen from Collingwood, Ontario, Canada, and I truly enjoyed every moment I spent with the group. I helped mostly with the children, doing artwork and keeping them engaged while their mothers were busy learning and working in the program. The women are incredibly strong and full of stories. Many of them are HIV-affected, and being with them felt like sharing hope and encouragement. The organization is very well organized, the environment is welcoming, and the communication was excellent. The accommodation had strong Wi-Fi, and everything was well arranged for volunteers. I also had the chance to visit several beautiful places around Kisumu, including Kakamega Rainforest, which was unforgettable. The women make beautiful African kitenga prints, and it was inspiring to see their creativity and determination. This experience was truly life-changing, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants meaningful travel combined with real community connection.

Volunteering with Kar Geno – Center for Hope has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I have been visiting the organization since 2008 and even served as a board president, and every time I return I feel like I am coming home. The women in the program are incredibly welcoming, always smiling, and they make sure you feel safe and comfortable at all times. They treat you like family, and I always feel like I have sisters, mentors, and siblings around me. The community is very organized and supportive, and there is always something meaningful to do, from helping with training to sharing skills like basic computer use. What makes the experience even more special is the culture. The traditional women dancers, the music, the local food, and the strong sense of togetherness make every visit unforgettable. You also get the chance to explore beautiful places, with the organization helping to arrange trips and local tours. For me, this is more than volunteering. It is a place where you feel appreciated, connected, and truly at home.

Volunteering with Kar Geno – Center for Hope in Kisumu was a truly memorable experience that combined community service with cultural exploration. I had the opportunity to support women in the empowerment and tailoring program by helping them with simple mathematics, basic arithmetic, calculating profits from their work, and discussing ideas such as marketing and selling products online. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and determination to build better livelihoods. Beyond volunteering, I had the chance to explore many incredible places around the region. I visited Maasai Mara, Kisumu Museum, and the beautiful Dunga Hill Camp where we enjoyed live music, great food, and stunning sunsets over Lake Victoria with a breathtaking view of Kisumu. I also traveled to Kit Mikayi Rock, Mfangano Island, and the ancestral village of former US President Barack Obama. Other memorable experiences included boat riding and fishing on Lake Victoria. The combination of meaningful volunteer work and exploring the rich culture and landscapes of the area made this experience truly unforgettable.