Valued Volunteers
A Year to Remember
World Hope International is thankful for those who volunteer their time to assist in the transformative work that is being done in vulnerable communities. From September 1, 2023, to August 30, 2024, Lilian and Genda signed a volunteer contract with the Enable the Children (ETC) program in Sierra Leone. Both have degrees in Early Childhood Care and Education and desire to share their knowledge and learn from the team working with children who have disabilities and their families.
What They Experienced
During the year, Lilian and Genda worked with the physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and pastoral social work teams. The new concepts and techniques they learned will help them serve those they assist for years to come. The year they spent volunteering helped develop their views about people living with disabilities. While volunteering with the ETC team they had the opportunity to: lead play groups for children under 7, assist with the ETC Beach Day, facilitate Disability and Teacher trainings, help with Child Sponsorship updates, write feedback reports, and share on a radio show.
Lilian and Genda also had the privilege to experience some professional development while volunteering. This included attending Child Protection training, learning to chair case conference team meetings, and learning how to represent the organization at stakeholder and partner events and workshops. They were also provided access to a variety of online courses such as Leadership and Child Development through Physiopedia.
The Impact
Often when we decide to contribute our skills, talents, and experience, we tend to get more back than we ever give because the lessons we learn are invaluable. The time Lilian and Genda spent volunteering with the ETC team will continue to have a lifelong impact both on the lives of those they served and on their own lives. The way they approach their work and interact with people will also be different. “As educators, this experience served as a practical reference to how we will relate and create equal spaces for all children within early childhood centers and communities regardless of their conditions. It has also developed our experiences, advocacy skills, and human relationships.”
Transformation happens when we put ourselves in places where we can learn and grow. We are so thankful for these valued volunteers who were willing to go to Sierra Leone and share what they have learned and also to learn from the team. Together, the ETC program is making a lasting impact.
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.
You can learn more about the Enable the Children program or you can sponsor a child living with special needs.
