Feedback from Ghana (Community) Volunteers

Here are some of the emails we have received from volunteers about their experiences in the Ghana Community Program.

"This afternoon we invited all of the parents of the first graders to bring their children up to the new library and read with them for a few hours. We expected maybe 15-20 people. We got more than we expected with 60 parents and kids peppered about the school compound, reading together, in what was the nicest scene I have laid eyes upon in Africa so far"

"This past six weeks has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life. It is amazing to spend time with these people who have so little but who are so happy. Since the day I arrived I have thought that Lume Atsiame is the friendliest community I have ever been in. I still think this."

Patrick

"The freedom of the placement was hugely rewarding, and gave me the opportunity to be creative and tailor the work of the CBO to the needs and abilities of the community."

Harriet

"The last week I really didn't want to leave the village. It finally hit me the night before that I may never see these people again that had been so welcoming. I really hope that they stay in contact and continue the projects that I helped them start."

Colleen

"I was placed in the village of Saviefe Gbogame, my job was to work on a library project. I was lucky enough to have raised money before hand so we were able to make great progress on the library as well as make plans for a two acre communal farm, so that my CBO would be able to have a constant and sustainable source of money for future projects without having to rely on donors and volunteers."

"The village of Saviefe Gbogame made me feel more than comfortable miles and miles away from home. They accepted as member of their community and I am forever in their debt. Keep an open mind and open heart and I can guarantee you will have the time of your life! You will meet unbelievable people and see beauty that you never dreamed of seeing in this life or the next. Go for it, don't hold back and you will receive rewards that you never imagined."

Katharina

"Be prepared for a serious lack of organisation, but take it in stride, you're going to have an amazing time anyway! Pay more attention to the things that matter, like the people you meet and what you can learn from them."

Pooja

"I had a pick-up from my hostel as I had arrived early to acclimate in Accra and was helped to Ho on the tro-tro and set up comfortably for the night before I left for Mafi-Kutime. The staff and volunteers of BRIDGE were all helpful and welcoming. Upon arrival to the village I was greeted my dancing, music, and a procession that followed my taxi. I was immediately made to feel like I belonged there, even though I didn't speak much of the language. My Counterpart and Caretaker were wonderful and were my family by the end of the trip."

Meghan