Jessie Durrett just finished volunteering for four weeks in Cusco, Peru. She loved her home stay, particularyly for the opportunity to practice her Spanish, and all of the other volunteers that she worked with at the girl’s shelter.
Read her full volunteer story:
Jeff Judkins just spent two weeks volunteering in our rural sustainable development project in Nicaragua. Even though he was only in Nicaragua for a short time he developed strong bonds with the local community through teaching English classes and spending time talking and learning with his host family.
Read Jeff’s volunteer story about life on the farm in Nicaragua:
Markie Sessamen has been volunteering in our animal conservation project in Ghana for the past two weeks and is diving right into the local culture, including the chaos of a Ghanian football match. She is volunteering at Kakum National Park in Cape Coast, helping the local staff with renovation and even starting a non-profit organization for the park.
Read weekly updates from the first half of her trip:
Aaron recently finished teaching English with uVolunteer in Thailand. He lived in Phon Phisai in a homestay with Jack, our local coordinator, and traveled around Thailand on weekends. Read weekly highlights from his trip, including traditional Thai food, motorcycle riding around a tropical island, and meeting the Thai Minister of Education.
Kendra recently finished up volunteer for a couple of months with uVolunteer. She split her time between a turtle conservation project in Camaronal and teaching English to children and adults in San Ramon. She shares her experience with us here.
“Day one: scary but exciting. Where am I going? What will Costa Rica be like? Where will this program take me in my life? I barely slept the night before I arrived and when Laura and Meaw came to pick me up, I was dead tired and almost incoherent. But I was soon energized b
y the arrival of other volunteers into the pickup van, the feel of the city of San Ramon and, of course, by the great presence of the coordinators. All my concerns about the performance of the program were swept away, and I found myself relaxing and enjoying the presence of other like minded volunteers, all of whom were eager to get out there and start making a difference in Costa Rica.
I spent two nights in San Ramon and quickly packed up to where my real project would begin, in Camaronal. I walked around in a daze upon arrival, stunned by the natural beauty of the beach and the incredible heat that permeates your bones. My first night I could barely contain my excitement as I picked up baby turtles from the nursery and took them towards the sea. Then, of course, the momma turtles came up at night to lay their eggs. There’s something indescribable and magical about seeing this slow lumbering turtle emerge from the sea and interact with the world on land just long enough to create new life. It’s hard to find an example of a similar experience…well, imagine if there were aliens, and you saw one the first time when it came to earth to lay eggs. Ok, so that’s a weak example, but just trust me, it’s AWESOME. When the turtles return into the sea, they’re going back to a place where you can’t follow them, where they have a blissfully free life of swimming and eating and just being, and all the ocean is their home.
I loved Camaronal so much I decided to stay an extra month. Apart from the incredible sea turtle visits, all of the people there are lovely people with remarkable life stories. I realized, with so many amazing people coming in and out of Camaronal to volunteer, that bad people just don’t volunteer with turtles. Everyone you meet there is a dedicated lover of the earth, someone who wants to give back a little, and those kind of people are great to be around, and easy to get along with. I slept outside and never wo
re shoes. I took naps on tables, in trees, on the beach, in the river. One time I woke up from a midday nap to find an iguana casually seated on my FACE, enjoying the heat radiating from my body. I don’t know who was more startled when the other one moved – me or the iguana. I got so comfortable with bugs that I could easily pick up the biggest, hairiest spider that exists with no squeamishness. I got bronzed and burned in turns, and took long walks along the beach where I wouldn’t see another living soul for miles. I caught my first fish with the cook who works there and made my first (failed) attempt at surfing on a nearby beach. In the day the volunteers talk, play cards, read, write, and very often just sit there and think about life, and it was never boring. In the span of days I got to know the other volunteers better than I know friends I’ve had for years.
Leaving Camaronal was bittersweet. I was ready to move on to my next project in San Ramon, but I mourned for the loss of a place that has so inspired me, and given me the tranquility to just slow down and think about the world. But upon arriving in San Ramon, my feelings of loss were negated by the open arms and welcome that I found in my host mom. Honestly, if you’re going to do a home stay ask for Dona Nidia, she is literally the warmest and most beautiful soul I know. Doing home stay was a very effective way for me to polish up my 
Spanish, too, and I am now leaving Costa Rica with ten times better Spanish that when I arrived just three months ago (having already studied and lived in Argentina for 5 months.)
The program at the school is great. The first day I came all the little kids came up to me and gave me notes that read “Te quiero Quenbra!” (I love you Quenbra), and they had just met me five minutes ago. After ten or so of such kind notes, I decided to write my name on the board so that I could set straight that whole thing about my name apparently being Quenbra. The night classes are equally endearing with some students of fifty plus years who have an inspirational, dogged determination to conquer English. With time I learned to admire my students even more, whom I saw had all the responsibilities in the world but still has the determination and will power to take time out of their day to further their educations.
My time volunteering in Costa Rica has helped me to grow so much as a person that I barely recognize myself anymore when I look in the mirror. The language, the culture, the natural beauty, and the everything else that can’t be summed up in a list make this country unique to all others. I would direct anyone who asked me straight to uVolunteer, the program that provided me with the opportunity to really experience the essence of this country. Hell, I’m directing people who HAVEN’T asked me to Costa Rica, I want everyone to experience the happiness I felt here and la pura vida!”
Eddie volunteered with uVolunteer in Thailand and he shares his experience with us here!
“M
y time living Jack and his wonderful family in Phon Pisai was, quite simply, magical. The house is very nice and in a beautiful area. One of my favorite things to do was jogging around the local rice paddy fields and farms, exploring new pathways everyday. Jack’s father is so friendly, really a lot of fun. Jack’s mother is so kind and caring, she really made me feel like I was her new son. Not to mention that she is, I’m convinced, the best cook in all of Thailand. And the all the locals were, without exception, very friendly; all smiles and curious to meet this new ‘Farang’ who had come to town.
I had no previous teaching experience, so teaching with Ajan Yupaporn was at times very challenging, but I learned a lot from it. She offered a lot of support and advice on teaching, but also gave me a lot of freedom to try out ideas and different things. If you put the time into making a good lesson, the teaching could be a real hoot. The students were all lovely and fun - if not always hardworking - and (like everyone else) just so curious about this new Farang who’d come to town. And
the Isan Survivor activities were very fun and a real invaluable window into the lives of average Isan people. We walked through farms, discussed the uses of different plants, talked with locals and went down the Mekong River on a local fishing boat. Jack has a real passion for the land and people, and he really managed to get his enthusiasm across.
I really enjoyed my time in Phon Pisai. I’ll always look back on the town and the friends I made fondly, and I’ll be coming back to visit as soon as I can.”
For information about volunteering in Thailand, check out uVolunteer’s Thailand projects page.
After a great experience in Costa Rica, Mary decided to devote more of her time to volunteering, this time in Peru! She shares her experience with us here.
“About 2 
months ago I volunteered in Costa Rica through uVolunteer. The organization took great care of the volunteers. They were also significantly cheaper than other organizations. It was a heartwarming experience and I wanted to volunteer again. However, I decided I wanted to visit a new country and continue to learn Spanish. I chose to go to Peru. uVolunteer was very helpful and willing to accommodate my timeframe so I could go to Peru. Unfortunately, my time in Peru was very short so I wasn’t able to tour as much of the country as I wanted. Peru is a lovely country made up of very friendly people. I did enjoy the few cities that I was able to see, though. Some parts of Peru (like in any place) are not very safe, but Cusco was incredibly safe and easy to get around. The local contact in Cusco did a remarkable job of welcoming me. Upon my arrival, she gave me a tour of the town, shared some the history, discussed the culture, and accompanied me to my project. She made me feel very comfortable and made sure that I knew she would be available if I had any questions or concerns. In addition, she introduced me to the family I stayed with.
My home stay experience was great. uVolunteer does an outstanding job of ensuring that the volunteers stay with respectable families who welcome the volunteers and treat them as one of their own. My family was made up of incredible individuals. The mother of the house made sure that we felt at home and part of the family. We were provided with three meals a 
day. For the majority of the meals we ate together as a family. It was during those times that we learned most about one another and our different cultures. We also watched television together and sometimes went out to eat together. Living with the family also gave us more opportunities to practice our Spanish. Even though none of us were fluent in Spanish, they always encouraged us to practice and never made us feel uncomfortable. I would have to say that my home stay experience was definitely one of the highlights of my time in Peru. As hard as it was to say ‘goodbye’ at least I know that I will always have a family in Peru.
Of course, the other highlights of my experience in Peru were at my two volunteer projects. One of my volunteer projects was at an all girls’ orphanage. I cannot completely explain what it was like to work with those amazing girls. I went to Peru to give of myself, but I cannot help but wonder if I’m the one that ended up receiving more. Because of them, I learned more about myself in two weeks than I have in my whole life. I also learned about what the true meaning is of volunteering. When I arrived to Cusco, I was asked to teach English to the girls and I agreed. I will admit that I didn’t like my first day of teaching English. I had no experience and really didn’t know what I was doing. I went home that night wanting to tell them that I didn’t think I could do it again. When I arrived the next day, the girls ran to give me a hug and begged me to choose their group to have English class that day. It was at that moment that I realized that it didn’t matter how hard teaching the girls was for me. It was the difference I was making in their lives that mattered. Watching how excited they were to have someone take time to teach them-it moved me. I couldn’t take that away from them. Thus, I continued teaching English and later discovered that I actually really enjoyed it
. In addition to teaching English, I also played volleyball, drew, colored, read, and completed other activities with the girls. I truly enjoyed my time with them. Those girls gave more to me than they will ever know.
Initially, I was only supposed to work at the orphanage, but I wanted to work a few more hours. I was given the opportunity to volunteer at a clinic. The kids I worked with were either mentally or physically disabled. It broke my heart that the kids weren’t with their families. They were so happy, though. Several volunteers worked at the clinic and it was evident of the difference we made in their lives. They enjoyed having us there to hold them, play, and just interact with them. Some other duties consisted of changing them, feeding them, helping them walk, and assisting them with brushing their teeth. It was an unforgettable experience. I am forever grateful that I was able to be a part of their lives even if it was only for a few days. My time in Peru was an experience of a lifetime. uVolunteer is about more than just helping the community. It’s also about helping people find themselves and grow as a person. I grew more as a person in two weeks than I have in my whole life. I have my kids to thank for that. I also have wonderful memories off the time I spent with the kids and the positive impact had on their lives.”
For more information about projects in Peru, check out uVolunteer’s project page!
And finally, here is part 3 of Barbara’s volunteer story from her six month volunteer adventure in Thailand!
“Whenever possible Jack would take me sightseeing in his old car. Local wats which would later lead to big discussions of Buddhist theology. Special local events. Beauty pageants. Cooking contests. Weddings and funerals! Jack is only too happy to share his knowledge and love if Islam, his home.
As for getting around on my own this was not a problem. Jack’s family has several bikes. Two of my schools were close enough to ride to, the other required a lift. After school I would often ride into Phon Phaisa. 711 and the local Amazon coffee shop were my usual haunts along with the
markets where I would haggle over some little thing I just couldn’t live without. Most evenings or early mornings I would take a walk through the village, so much to see. The local people are so friendly inviting me in to meet the family, try a local craft, sing along to the Karaoke while enjoying a glass of !!!! Great fun.
Behind Jack’s house are the rice fields, acres of them. Staying for six months I was able to see the seasons of rice. So much so that I helped with the harvest, which earned me the invite to the local Rat BBQ! Tasty! I have so many photos of this along with many hours on my old bicycle in and around the jungle taking in Mother Nature in Thailand.
The schools in Th
ailand take plenty of vacations so ask before you book your stay. I had several small trips planned. You may need visas so allow extra time. I took the night bus; it and the train are both comfortable and cheap. It’s a great way to meet people like myself who are volunteering or traveling around. As last count I had spoken with people from twenty nine countries, any who have become friends.
To sum up my experience I would have to say Thailand is truly amazing. Friendly people. Stunning scenery. Gorgeous food. People who are genuinely happy to have us, the volunteer. So sign up…spend some time with Jack and the kids in Ban Thin Dung, Thailand.
Barbara Spreng in Wisconsin.”
Here is part two of Barbara’s volunteer story about her six month long English teaching project in Thailand!
“I came to Thailand to teach conversational English. On the second day, Jack took me to meet the two schools I would be working with. These two schools quickly became five. The children and teachers are very receptive. It’s up to you to ask for help. I found with some classes a teacher in the room was helpful. Some students needed the Thai translation to assist them with their
comprehension. A basic subject guide is available as is lunch with the teachers. I would suggest to all volunteers to take a lunch, as it is a great way to get to know your school, discuss ideas, ask for help and in turn you will be helping the teachers to practice spoken English. Remember, you are here to speak with the children, so don’t get bogged down with the grammar, handwriting and so on. Play games, have fun. I did buy some stickers and made flashcards. These are very cheap to produce. Most local markets will have all the supplies you need. I found the children to be so shy at first, however they quickly warm up to you. Take your camera, ple
nty of photo ops! The teachers can’t do enough for you. I quickly felt at home. I am a teacher, but other volunteers who are not found it an easy transition into the classroom.
Eating food from other cultures has always been quite a treat for me and as I enjoy cooking, I thought I would learn the basics of Thai cuisine. Jack’s family will ask you to ‘sit.’ You may want to get stuck in, so keep asking, they will allow you to help. Jack took me to the markets where there are plenty of foods on offer, all are safe. On a daily basis Bonsoom would cook my breakfast around eight. I asked for oatmeal after about a month as Thai meals can consist of soup, fish, and rice. I felt that once a day I wanted something different. So just ask. If it can be done you can have it. Just a little reminder Thai food is sweet and spicy to be cautious. You can ask for ‘mai pet,’ not spicy, if you find you are on fire and it’s not comfortable. For me, fruit was the best and again so cheap. Jack has a fridge so plenty of room to store the goodies!”
Check back for part 3 about Thailand!
Barbara recently finished her six month English teaching project in Thailand! We have been posting updates from her throughout her stay and her
e is the first part her final volunteer story.
“My journey began August 27, 2009. Upon my arrival in Udon Thani Thailand I was welcomed by Jack, my home stay coordinator. So far so good. Suitcase safely stashed, we set out for my first official Thai meal, noodle soup, Jack’s all time favorite meal. Sounded good to me but what were the scrawny little duck feet complete with toenails doing in there? I was to ask questions like this many times over in the months to come. The drive to Ban Thin Dung was about sixty miles. This was a ‘oh my, look at this…what is that?’ Stop the car, take a photo, drive. Poor Jack, I think he was beginning to wonder, who was this ‘older’ volunteer? Did I mention I’m 58
? Finally made it to the home. I have to say I was so happy to see my new home for the next six months. Thai homes are very open in plan. In Jack’s home there are four large bedrooms for the volunteers, with four bathrooms. The family has their own rooms but share the kitchen and community rooms, which are open to the lizards and any wandering birds. The pets are very important to the family and know their place. Well, the two dogs Far and Fun, along with the one day old puppy did, until we, the volunteers introduced them to the upstairs…Whoops! The puppy was names WenBar; after Wendy, a Dutch volunteer and me, Barbara. She was a favorite in the family.
My room was lovely and had all the basics; a futon with pillows and a quilt, small table, hanging rack and the all important fan. The door had a lock, but Ban Thin Dung is so safe I never felt the need. The view was amazing; coconut trees and rice fields. The perfume of the flowers stayed with me as two walls of my room were shutt
ers with screens. At night I could see the stars and would fall asleep along with the bug and reptile serenade. Two of the bathroom toilets were Western, the other two were Thai style. It’s best to have the family show you how to use these. Showers were no problem, plenty of hot water. In the hot months we all needed cold water. Jack’s mom has a lot of towels if you need them. Speaking of Jack’s mom, ‘Bonsoom,’ I would put my laundry in the washer but she would iron, oh the luxury…no wrinkles. I miss this!
All meals with Jack’s family are eaten on the floor, typical for Isan. If you are invited to his extended family, it’s the same. So much easier for clean up. I didn’t get to clean up much, as you are treated as a guest., but should take care of your won room. A weekly sweep is needed due to the Lizards and a few dead bugs.”
Check back for more about Barbara’s volunteer adventure in Thailand!
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