Volunteer Voices

After returning home, our volunteers find that they are just starting to process their experience, and part of that process is telling their stories. For many of our volunteers, immersing themselves in the lives of those they met was an educational and transforming experience unlike any other. Below are just a few of the many stories our volunteers have shared about the connections they made while on a Cross-Cultural Solutions international volunteer program.

Click on the country below to read stories from volunteers:

Click to read additional stories from students, teens, groups, 50plus, families, gappers, working professionals, interns, and Insight participants.

Read stories from former volunteers on why you should become an international volunteer.

Watch a Video on Volunteering Abroad

To listen to CCS volunteers describe their CCS experience via streaming audio, click here.

Brazil

Jocelyn
This is a fantastic programme, and a good starting point for someone who wants to go out and volunteer in a safe and secure way, but still with their own freedom. I would highly recommend CCS to anyone and everyone!

Jillian
I would just like to commend the entire CCS organization. The work I did in Brazil was the first time in my life that I had accomplished something that I was truly proud of; and the most humbling part of it all, was that that the only thing I really had to do in order to make a difference was show up everyday. Just by being with the kids, I may have made their lives a little better. To what extent that's true may be something that I'll never get to hear, but everyday since I've been back I think about them and how they all made me realize how lucky I am to have so much here in the States. And I guess they'll never know either just how much better they made my life just by being in it.

Joanne
I would describe my overall experience as absolutely amazing. I really loved everything about the program, from my placement to getting to know the culture of the country. The people I met were all so friendly and welcoming. My placement was just wonderful, and gave me the best experience I could have asked for. The children I worked with were amazing, and I did feel that my life has been enriched by working with them.

My volunteer placement was at CAASAH. I worked with the children of all ages here, from the small babies of just a few months old, to the older children up to the age of about 14. I played with the babies, fed them, changed them, bathed them, and generally took care of them. With the older children I did activities such as coloring, painting and other art and craft activities. Other volunteers and I also took some of the children to the beach.

I think one of the most rewarding things about this experience was being a small part of the children's lives. I had the most amazing experiences at my placement, including helping one of the babies learn to walk. He was only crawling when I first arrived and by the time I left he could walk by himself. Also, seeing the children's happy faces when we took them to the beach is a memory that will stay with me forever.

Heide
I will never forget when one of the girls from the orphanage called me "mama" in Portuguese. I was surprised because she had become so attached to me so quickly, but at the same time, it was very sad that she could so easily associate someone else to such a special role in her life. Every day was a new experience at CAASAH. Every day brought more smiles and taught me so much about myself as well as the children. Interacting with the nursing staff was a great experience as well. Although we never spoke the same language, it was clear to them as well as us volunteers that we shared a common love for the children.

Shaneah
Traveling to Salvador, Brazil was a life changing experience. I was consumed by the rich culture, and history that Salvador represents. It was one of the most profound and defining moments in my life. I was able to make a difference in my placement. I worked in CAASAH a center/residence for people who have HIV/AIDS. I helped with the babies, adults, and toddlers as well. I would recommend Brazil to any volunteer. The people are so incredibly sweet, and as an American I truly learned the meaning of living life to its fullest from these wonderful people.

Amber
Going to Brazil completely changed my life. It was my very first experience outside of the U.S. and I couldn't have asked for a better maiden voyage! I learned so much about life in general, not only from the kids I worked with, but from the people I lived with in the CCS house. I was constantly surrounded by exciting, happy, friendly people who helped me get out and experience everything Salvador had to offer. Salvador is so rich and alive you don't even want to sleep. And sometimes you don't! Working with the kids was exceptionally rewarding. They probably taught me more Portuguese than any CD I had. All in all, DEFINITELY choose Brazil, you won't regret it!

China

Joel Miller
Overall, my CCS experience was fantastic. Everything seemed to flow very well—the in-country staff was awesome, the other volunteers were great, and the placement was fun and interesting. The most amazing thing I did in China was to exchange ideas and culture with the students at my placement.

Veda
I can't thank CCS enough for this fantastic experience. I'm leaving Xi'an a better informed citizen of the world, having glimpsed a bit of China. I'm leaving Xi'an knowing myself a bit better -- having learned some of my personal limitations and what I can personally draw on to exceed them. I'm leaving Xi'an hopefully as a better person having seen such open kindness, and really learning about accepting and respecting others' cultural heritage. I'm sad to say goodbye to China, but I know I'll be back, and I can't wait to plan my next CCS volunteer trip!

Sara
Living in China during my time with Cross-Cultural Solutions was the highlight of my life so far. The experience was incredibly educational and enriching and I feel that I really helped to bring some understanding of oral English and American culture to my students in Xi'an. I loved exploring the city and finding my way through the many different neighborhoods. It was my first time living in a big city; not only was the city huge, it was also surrounded by ancient stone walls. While in Xi'an I learned a great deal about Chinese culture and language that one cannot obtain from books. I am extremely grateful to the marvelous staff in China, as they treated me like a little sister and never grew impatient with incessant questions. Anyone looking to learn more about the world in which we as humans inhabit while also helping others should have the opportunity to make a trip like this. I would strongly recommend CCS' China program.

Gina
The people at my placement were AMAZING. They really took care of me and told me that they viewed me as a relative. Every day I came in they had a small thoughtful gift for me! The night before I left, they insisted on taking me out to dinner. I couldn't believe that they were so nice and they didn't expect anything in return. In the end, I definitely felt I was part of a family. It was the first time I went to China, but it certainly won't be my last.

Ann Lynn
The program is perfectly balanced to let us gain an understanding and respect for the culture and community where we are working, letting us explore on our own, and giving us the opportunity to feel like we're making a difference. I think that if I had gone over just as a volunteer something would have been lost!

Evangeline
I feel that this experience has opened my eyes much wider than they were before. I feel I understand more of how the other half of the world lives.

Costa Rica

Linda Cherrington
My favorite activity was an impromptu trip to a sugar cane field with the staff. We went on a hike and I made it to the top of the mountain, no easy task I might say. Since I was the oldest, everyone was helping me and urging me on. It was great fun and I felt great! The views were incredible and we saw many interesting sights on the way.

Kathleen O'Donnell
CCS was the most amazing experience I have ever had! I have never felt so good inside as I did in the short two weeks I worked in San Carlos. I will forever cherish everything I learned while I was there, and I will never take for granted the little things in life ever again.

I would describe my experience as a two week long rush! Every morning I woke up, I was so excited for what I was going to accomplish in the next 24hrs. I loved every bit of my experience. Working with CCS gave me such a warm feeling inside. When I got to San Carlos I felt a little lost in my life, but when I left I had such a handle on what I wanted to do with myself. CCS was the best thing I have ever done.

Lisa Eugea
One of the most memorable parts of volunteering for me was just how receptive everyone at the school was to me. They were all very interested in getting to know me, especially in the preschool. The students didn't even care that I didn't know much Spanish. They loved to try to tell me things and teach me games. The teachers and students were very understanding of the language barrier, and we all made up creative ways to communicate when we weren't understanding something.

Christianne Bellion
I think that trips like this one really help to put life in perspective. My "problems" just didn't really seems like problems anymore. I really hope I never lose the sense of how blessed I am, and how important it is to go outside of your comfort zone and take trips like this one that teach you how to appreciate life.

I think it's organizations like CCS that really give a practical approach to really making a difference in this world. I would definitely participate in another CCS program and I would recommend Cross Cultural Solutions to anyone considering volunteering abroad.

Anne Showalter
If I had to describe my overall experience in two words, it would be challenging and so worth it (okay that's four words). It's been almost a month and a half since I came home, and I'm still finding it difficult to put the experience into words. Not because there isn't that much to say but because there is so much to say. I will say that it was definitely one of those experiences in which the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. There were fun parts, challenging parts, sobering parts, frustrating parts. It's so cliche to say that this "changed my life" but I feel like it enriched my life in ways I'm still discovering. The most prominent thought in my mind as I was preparing to leave [Costa Rica] and in the days after I returned home was "I need to do this again."

Matt Granatstein
My overall experience was incredible. There were so many facets of the program that contributed to making it so worthwhile. Every single staff member (from the directors, to the housekeepers, cooks, drivers and night guard) impacted my experience with their kindness, hospitality and love for their country. I built countless friendships with the other volunteers and staff of the program.

Daniel Jones
I think there's a kindred spirit in the sense that we all are here trying to give something of ourselves, and there's a real adventurous spirit. It's a great experience ... The main thing I learnt about travel was that you have to step off the beaten path, get to really know the local community, get to really know the country that you're going into.

Taylor
It is now the one year anniversary of my decision to participate in the CCS Costa Rica program. Since then I don't think I have made a decision that has impacted my life as significantly and in such an incredible way. The first day I stepped foot in the Hogarcito (orphanage) I was not warmly received though I had a willing and warm heart ready to give. It takes time to forge bonds. It takes time to initiate positive change. Within a week I was bonded with the children and gained respect and warm greetings. I can't tell you how it feels to see wide smiles and little eyes running to you at 8 a.m. You are their highlight of the day and your presence does change the world, because it changes those children. I know I left there after a month with a heart filled with happiness that I made those children smile. I gave them something they otherwise would not have — I gave them love, I gave them my time and I did it because they needed it and really looking back, I needed it too.

Ryan
To start off my story, I am an Investment Adviser and a volunteer. I always thought that nothing could compare to making that sale until I saw their eyes: the children's eyes, so expressive with pure life (pura vida). Costa Rica allowed me to put down my preconceived notions of what I could do and what I valued, and simply live. Working with those children is something that I will never forget. Before I went to Costa Rica I would never have imagined that making macaroni necklaces with children would make me smile like it did and still does. I love Costa Rica, the country, the people, and especially those children. Pura Vida!

Janinne
I had a wonderful time. The volunteer placement was a dream come true. The staff was amazing. There was always someone around to make sure I was okay, that I was having a good time. One of the cooks gently touched each person on the shoulder when she arrived at work as she said hello and again when she left saying goodbye. That was such a kind, gentle gesture. I think it really summed up how I felt in San Carlos. We volunteers described the San Carlos CCS house as a safe cocoon. The facilities were clean and comfortable, the food was delicious, the camaraderie among the volunteers and staff was amazing. It was so fantastic to meet people who display such beauty, generosity, and selflessness. We live in a crazy world, at a crazy time. I live in NYC and we have been through so much in the past few years. Between 9/11 and now the aftermath, the war, the constant fear of another attack, it can really wear a person down. It is hard to remain positive in mankind. This trip helped to change that for me; I feel revitalized.

Catherine
The CCS experience has already impacted my life. The moment I stepped into Hogarcito, my life changed. Besides leaving me with indelible memories, it gave me new perspectives working with children and those who work with children. At the same time, I was introduced to a beautiful community of people with whom I hope to keep in touch for years to come.

My favorite activity was an impromptu trip to a sugar cane field with the staff. We went on a hike and I made it to the top of the mountain, no easy task I might say. Since I was the oldest everyone was helping me and urging me on. It was great fun and I felt great! The views were incredible and we saw many interesting sights on the way.

Ghana

Amy
Maybe I will be able to sow some strong seeds that will reap protection and support for the children in need. I am learning that baby steps are extra important here, as well as realizing the value in the small deeds done with great love. As Mother Teresa stated, "We can not all do great things, but we can do small things with great love."

Katrina
I volunteered in Ghana in July of 2001. Two years later, I still realize how much I learned while I was there. I think about Ghana every day. I still look at my scrapbook and remember how wonderful of an experience I had. I learned what is really important in life. I learned to stop being so materialistic. Life was so simple there. I learned how strong I am. I really can live without indoor plumbing and without a television. I got so much accomplished there. I read so many books, and wrote more than I ever have in such a short time. Words can never truly explain the way I feel about Ghana, but I can say, I began to find myself there. I learned what family values really are. I learned what it means to live in a community. I know the type of person I want to be now. I just want to thank Cross-Cultural Solutions for changing my entire outlook and perspective on life. I especially want to thank the staff I lived with in Akatsi. Tell Ellen I will always love her, and Yao that I will never forget him, and Constance the food was delicious and I appreciate all of her hard work every day. I know that Cross-Cultural Solutions has a lot of volunteers and I am one from two years ago, but I wanted you to know that even if they don't remember me that I will always remember all of you and that you completely changed my life. I graduate next May and I have recently began my Peace Corps application. Thank you for changing my life!

Eunie
The people I met around town were unbelievably friendly, welcoming, and warm. Whether I was walking to work or walking around town, people always took the time to say hello and engage in conversation. They always made me feel so welcome, and I never felt that I was being viewed as a foreigner. The people with whom I was able to form closer relationships with enriched my time in Ghana by exposing me to activities, historical information, events, cuisine, etc. around town. Although we may be oceans apart, I know that I will forever cherish the friendships I made and always look back with fond and loving memories of my time spent in Ghana.

It's hard to express in words how this will affect my life, because it's more of something that I feel. Before I left, I had NO idea that this experience was going to have the impact that it did on my life. Living in a different culture, experiencing a new lifestyle, and meeting diverse people truly opened my eyes to the life I had been leading, and the life I now want to lead. Being there taught me to appreciate the simplicity and pureness of life and the importance of family and community. It was one of the most valuable and memorable experiences of my life, and I will carry the memory of it close to heart for the rest of my life.

Andrea
I have realized that Ghana transformed me into a stronger person with a lot more love and acceptance. The people of Ghana opened up their hearts and homes to me while I was there, and taught me that relationships are much more important than materialistic goods. I probably learned the most from the children I taught at Goodwill Preschool, because they were so enthusiastic about learning and so full of love. I realized how lucky I am and how much I have taken my education for granted, which made going back to one more year of high school a lot easier. Volunteering in Ghana with CCS was the best thing I have ever done and I will definitely be going back. My advice for anyone considering international volunteering is to go for it! You will positively effect the lives of so many people by just caring enough to be there.

Name withheld by request
When I went to live for three months in Ghana, I was looking for a way of escaping life as I knew it in conventional America. I was a high school senior and ready to see the world. So I signed my name on the volunteer list and shipped out to the other side of the world. What I found in Ghana was far more than I ever could have expected. I found a world not only different in every way from the one I knew, but filled with culture, love and spirit.

Ghanaians are the most delightful people I have ever met and to be brought into their community, as I was, felt better than I can dream of explaining. As a young, American female, I could have been harassed or rejected by the Ghanaians, or worse yet, ignored. Instead, the moment I set foot into their village I was welcomed with a parade of beautiful, smiling children, teens and adults. It was the simple effort of the locals to make one feel appreciated that warmed my heart to Ghana.

I want to take a moment now to relay my appreciation to those incredible folks I met in Ghana who loved me and taught me how to love them. To my students: I love you all and think about your simple and wonderful classroom every day. Please, believe that you can do anything. And to the CCS staff in Ghana: you are more than one could ever deserve.

Keep the sparkle in your eyes, Ghana. Better yet, spread it to the next person who drops in to see what the world is all about. You got me.

Michelle
I had the most amazing experience of my life there. A new mother even named her baby after me. I think that this experience and what CCS has given to me has completely changed my life forever. I am going into the medical profession and I am going to be a midwife.

Tracey
Ghana was amazing and I met too many wonderful people to not go back. I loved working in the hospital in Keta...it actually sparked an interest in public health, which I am now pursuing at university. I've also been giving presentations to schools about my experience and hope that others will start thinking about international volunteerism as a result of that.

Guatemala

Victoria Ruth
I'm so grateful to have had this experience. The memories and relationships I made are so unforgettable and I feel like I've been reborn. I got to experience something that most people will never see. I feel like I was able to capture the true spirit of Christmas giving by being there and learning something new.

Amy Adams
I'm working on my resume. I'm trying to use this journey as career development. That would be the life-changing part. So far, I think it's been more like a refresher course, maybe a strengthener. But this is definitely a step in a new direction. Where it will lead, yo no se.

Tansy
I feel I have learned more in my 2 months in Guatemala than I have in my 15 years of full time education and I have certainly grown up a lot and become much more independent. I think I have developed emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.

I have now been back a month, and I still cry when I look at pictures of the children at the orphanage. I miss them more than I've ever missed anything, and I think it will stay with me for the rest of my life. I think I have some idea how it must feel for parents having to give up their children; it just hurts so much. Before I went to Guatemala, I was already quite actively involved in Fairtrade and responsible consumerism and I will continue to be. However, having read the reasons why CCS opposes donations to the individual program placements and seen the work of CARE in empowering by giving loans rather than donations, it has made me re-think quite seriously about the effects of charity, and how I want to give my money to sustainable projects only from now on. I think I will also be very keen to travel as much as I can, and when I travel I will want to stay long enough in places to really absorb the culture (having felt so disturbed by the tourist attitude of some people I met). I'm very keen to learn Spanish and return to Guatemala at some point. I feel I have a much broader and more open view of the ways other people live. I think I also gained a lot of confidence which will help me make the most of the next few years of going to university and starting real work. I know I will volunteer abroad again sometime in my life. At the moment, I am still struggling with life at home not seeming quite right — its so weird seeing British culture from the outside, and I have found the culture shock of coming home far greater than the culture shock of going to Guatemala — probably because I wasn't ready for it. I miss Guatemala so much!

Judy
Over the long term, the experience has enlightened me about the "sameness" of people in terms of exchanging love and friendship and help, regardless of the nature of our cultural circumstances. The children will remain strong in my memory forever, as will the bond formed with the other volunteers and Virginia and her staff.

Lee
I've already been much more conscious about what is going on in the rest of the world, and I have paid particular attention to Guatemala and Central/South America in general. I want to volunteer more, and have already done this to some extent although not as much as I aim to. One reason I went on this trip was to try and figure out where I wanted my life to go, especially after graduation from college in the spring. This trip certainly helped me to do this. I want to go into public health nursing and hopefully have some more international experiences doing this.

India

Steven Crimaldi
In one word--overwhelming. India attacks your five senses--but in its own way it is delightful, and while I used the word overwhelming, the experience was a blessing as well.

Elizabeth Simpson
This was a life changing experience! It has opened my eyes up to the reality of a new culture, it has given me the courage to face challenges alone, and it has also secured in my mind the desire to work in the voluntary sector. My work in the Anganwadi and special needs school has inspired me to go into the field of education, which, this experience has shown me, has such a profound impact on the course of so many people's lives, providing a passport to autonomy.

Shani Langdom
It was a rich, exciting and fascinating experience, with the opportunity to meet many new people and share information about different cultures, with the staff and other people from India, as well as with other volunteers who were from all different parts of the world. The program did an excellent job of combining voluntary work, cultural exchange and free time for exploring, providing a safe and comfortable Home-Base from which to do all of this. The CCS staff were incredibly supportive and dedicated to keeping the volunteers satisfied and safe.

Louise Doyle
It's hard to put into words how to describe my experience. It was wonderful from beginning to end. I am indebted to many people in India, the in-country staff and the UK and US staff, who helped me along the way and made the journey so memorable. I had such a positive time in India, learning about the culture, the society, and the role of the NGO's but also aspects about myself that I hadn't realised before. It was a personal reflective journey that enabled me to gain another perspective, particularly within the realm of the caring field.

Peter Timms
Cross-Cultural Solutions was just one aspect of a very varied gap year and was easily the highlight of my year, because we were just allowed to get on with it. In so many other organisations there is training, facilities are not right, you're told how to do something. Cross-Cultural Solutions was an experience of getting back to first-hand change from a person-to-person level.

Even though my time in India was short by 'western' standards i.e. 4 weeks, being placed in India, it really did not matter. What mattered was the quality of the time spent in exchanging ideas, attitudes, beliefs and feeling like being part of a collective community.

Zubin
When the first set of students trickled in, smiling and excited at seeing working computers and a clean lab, it started to sink in. It finally hit me full force one day when working with a student. He already knew how to type and the placement of all the keys on the keyboard. He knew how to type from a book I had shown to him numerous times before. Yet after typing each letter, with imploring eyes and a pleading, unsure voice, he would call me over from helping the other students. He would call me over not to show him what the next letter was, but just so that someone would be standing next to him as he typed it. He needed someone's silent presence to give him the confidence to hit a key, and be there to smile in appreciation when he did. No matter how many times I would gently encourage him to type on his own, it would not sink in. I realized then that I was making a difference and a contribution just by being who I was. I never lost patience with that student, or any other. No matter how many times he called me over, I would stand by him. In that or any other moment, when faced with someone's need to feel connected, all I had to offer was myself.

Tim
Letter to the Founder of Cross-Cultural Solutions
Ten years ago...

I was walking out of the restroom on the second floor of Noland Library when I saw a sign that said, "Project India" "volunteer." I don't remember what exactly made me write down the number and call you, but I did. Little did I know that on the other line was a man that had a dream and vision far beyond my vague desire to see the other side of the planet.

One month later, I was on my first plane ride around the world. It was a journey that blew my mind. It changed the person that I call "me." After those memorable three weeks with you, Pearl, Bela, Sonny, and Mena, I began the new adventure that is my life. Sarah and I have traveled the world. We have spent two years in a tiny village helping people that we now call our extended family. Sarah and I can't even imagine a life that does not involve living abroad and helping others.

Now, I check out your website and smile. Isn't great when dreams come true. You should be one proud man. I know I am honored to be the first of such a great and noble venture.

Thank you Steve.

Cheers -- to twenty more years of helping the world, literally.

Your friend, Tim Chaney

James
I've recommended CCS to so many of my friends - people like me who are working or in business and looking for something a bit more - mainly because I have no reservations about you. From beginning to end, CCS was wonderful.

Brian
When I came to India I had no idea what to expect. I was very ignorant of India's culture, and most of the aspects of the country. At home all I heard about was the bad parts of the country; those are what people like to dwell on. I was amazed to see that there were more mistruths about the country than I thought. For being an American citizen, I was told that I would not be liked. Although, when I went shopping and did other activities a lot of the Indian people treated me respectfully. Besides the mistruths, visiting the country and teaching was a great learning experience. I learned that the children played hackie sack which is a game I play at home a lot. They were very receptive to English and it was very uplifting to see children progress slightly because of me. I have more of an urge to be a teacher now. I learned how to play cricket which I never understood before. I was told about traditions such as arranged marriages, the good and bad parts of them. I was amazed to see how much faith the children put into their parents. I found that misconceptions weren't just part of American thought. I learned that a lot of Indians have misconceptions of Westerners also. Being in a group with all different cultures was wonderful too, because I learned about European and Canadian culture, as well as more American insights. Hiking in the Himalayas was also fun with all the views and visiting temples. Now that I am home I have been offered a job teaching children (which I accepted) about what I learned and I am informing friends and family of the culture. I also feel a lot wiser and more educated. India was a wonderful experience and I plan on going back.

Madeleine
My overall experience was absolutely fantastic. I loved every part of it. I learned so much about myself and about the Indian culture and history. This is something I probably wouldn't have learned had I just been traveling around by myself. The CCS family in New Delhi were amazing people. They really took care of me and Martina, and they became our friends. At the end of my program, I was really sad that I had to leave, but so happy that I had done it. I managed to achieve my goals, and I certainly will miss everyone and the atmosphere that we all created together.

I worked at a Mobile Creche called Dakshin Puri II. It was a daycare center that provided a safe and educating environment for the children of labor workers at construction sites. I was to teach them basic English, math and anything else that I felt I could offer them. The children were amazing. At first it was hard to achieve a sense of respect -- I think the kids tended to test our limits -- but after a few days they started listening to us and we felt such a sense of achievement. Even the communication problems didn't bother me. We got used to communicating through body language, the few phrases in Hindi that we learned, and any other way possible. It was a challenging, but fun and rewarding experience.

Morocco

Shadin Atiyeh
You have to be in a certain frame of mind to really gain the most from an experience like this. If you want to just see a country, then take an extended tour with a group. Volunteering is only meaningful if you are prepared to offer yourself freely to serve others. You need a great deal of patience and creativity. You need to be introspective in order to keep your prejudices in check. You also need to be compassionate. The main goal should be to build relationships and enter the community. Most importantly you are here to make friends, to learn about them, and to represent yourself and your culture accurately and with dignity—not just to get a job done or to put something on your resume. Something I learned on this trip is that everything is as you make it. You have to be active in making your volunteering experience what you want it to be.

Laura Haddow
I loved teaching English in the prison and I looked forward to going there every day. Another volunteer and I taught two classes per day, one more advanced and one with students of a lower ability level. Sometimes we would go to our placement in the afternoons to teach the more advanced group if they were unavailable in the mornings. What was most memorable for me was not the teaching specifically, but instead the general interaction with the inmates and how fun it was trying to overcome the language barrier using the few Arabic and French words I knew—there were many rounds of Charades! I felt like most of the students were really eager to learn. Those who were not so interested in English were just as eager to get to know me and the other volunteers.

I met so many lovely people whilst in Morocco. The staff and inmates at the prison were respectful, friendly, and helpful, as was the staff at the Home-Base. What really struck me about the Home-Base was the sense of a real family atmosphere. The staff members were incredibly hard-working and put their whole heart into working for CCS and making us feel welcome and at home. They were helpful and friendly not because it was their job, but because they really cared about the volunteers. As for the volunteers, I feel like I have made some good friends.

Peru

Orla Mckee
I would very much advocate international volunteering; it is such an enriching experience. It was a perfect opportunity to experience a country from within, in an environment that was very safe. The variety of placements offered by CCS gives people from all walks of life something to get their teeth into. I am in the healthcare setting at home, where your hard work is rewarded when you can measure, over time, the difference you make, which can be a long drawn out process. Being part of CCS and the programme in Lima and Ayacucho I have to say has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in the past 10 years of my career. It is an instant reward. As I reread my emails and journal it is obvious the people of Peru have made a wonderful impact in my life and I can only hope that my time with them, along with previous and future volunteers' time, will go a long way in impacting on their lives.

Jake Antonio
I still think of my Peru experience daily, and I have felt even more connected to my friends in Ayacucho and Lima as I have been reading back through my journal from last summer. My 8 weeks in Peru still proves to be one of the most powerful experiences of my life, and I am forever grateful to CCS for giving me that opportunity. I have jumped at every chance to share my story and want you to continue putting people in touch with me.

Kim Young
CCS opened my eyes to what I could offer, how I could be my own woman. I found something in me that I didn't realize was there.

Jenni Manning
I would encourage everyone to spend as long as they can as a volunteer, the rewards multiply with every week, and you make more lasting relationships. After my placement I traveled in Peru and Bolivia, which was amazing, but I couldn't help missing volunteering, often feeling a lack of something as just a casual tourist. Volunteering certainly allows you to penetrate well beyond the surface, and really makes you feel you have a purpose.

Nikki D'Arcy
Sometimes I did wonder how my being there was helping, but when I saw eyes light up and people rush to greet me at the centre, or welcome me into their homes with open arms, I knew that just my presence let them know that people care, and for that they were so grateful. Some of these people have families who have deserted them, left them with nothing and to have people from so far away come and talk to them, or just sit and listen to them let's them know they are not alone. That people care. And I do. You can't help but get attached, you leave with tears in your eyes, feeling like you are leaving behind hundreds of new grandparents.

Simon
This is an amazing experience! Every aspect of it, the volunteer work, the cultural immersion, the traveling, extracurricular activities, and the personal sense of satisfaction that it all brings is overwhelming.

Kate
I worked at Los Martincitos in Villa el Salvador. On a daily basis at the program, I think the most important function we held was to spend time with the abuelitos, and let them know that we were interested in them and their wellbeing. In addition, we served meals, helped with the morning exercise routine, transported the abuelitos to offsite events, painted fingernails, sorted donations, washed dishes, and helped the abuelitos with other activities like bingo and sapo. On the days that we did home visits, we followed up with abuelitos that hadn't reported to the program. These were the days in which I felt the greater part of my impact. They were delighted to have us into their homes. For some, we may very well be the only people to check on them, think about them, and make sure that they are okay.

The local people with whom I interacted at Los Martincitos were such special souls. It goes without saying that the abuelitos had a great impact on me. They seemed to truly appreciate our being there, and had an appreciation for the fact that we had taken time out of our lives to be with them. I will admit that before my arrival, I did wonder if they would see us as a source of money, but to be honest, I did not sense that. The Villa residents who volunteer at Los Martincitos were tremendous! I still cannot comprehend the amount of volunteer hours that they put into their community. Sister Jaqui and Tony are incredible human beings, and I consider it an honor to have had the opportunity to work with the both of them. I have several abuelitos that I am already thinking about.

I also had great support from the US CCS staff prior to my departure. I felt very comfortable with all of the details about my arrival, what to pack, what to expect in the house, even what literature to read. The only thing that I wish I could have had a bit sooner was my actual volunteer placement, but I understand this may not be feasible. The In-Country Staff in Lima is exceptional. They were all so kind. They even cooked special meals for us with upset stomachs, and were so knowledgeable. They did everything with enthusiasm, and also extended their appreciation for our visit to their country.

Mike
Going to Peru with CCS was one of the most memorable experiences in my life. Even three years later, I rarely miss a day where something sparks my memory of those two incredible months. As you are considering devoting time to go to the developing world, I know there are many logistical uncertainties, especially if you are younger and your parents have say in the decision.

Will it be safe? How will I pay for it? Is the program legitimate? What will the living conditions be like? Where will I work? But, I will tell you, if you even have the slightest desire to see the world through a new perspective and if you value serving fellow humanity, this is the trip for you. CCS is so on top of things, everything is taken care of.

The staff at CCS are amazing to work with; completely organized, knowledgeable, and compassionate toward the cause. In Peru, the CCS staff are all locals who treat you with so much love, teach you so much about their country, and the food...superb! Much better (and healthier) food than any college student could dream of getting in school. I still have cravings for papa relleno and for fresh mangoes straight out of the Amazon jungle, and passion fruit (a special favorite that I have still never found in the US).

On to the real reasons for going...Volunteering abroad will rock your world! Peru is a naturally beautiful place with a rich culture and history. Its current political and social state is heart wrenching, but the resilient citizens will teach you more about faith and hope than anything else in the developed world. I think of the kids I worked with while I was down there; both the orphans and the ones with families were so poor financially, yet so similar to any other kid in the world. They laugh, they fight with each other, they love to play sports, they cry, they love to be loved, and they love talking to Americans. They ask a ton of questions about our country and it's a blast to explain to them that America is more than Hollywood, and not everyone is a millionaire (or billionaire). They are people who, like you and I, want what's best for our family, ourselves, and God.

You build such close relationships with the people you work with (volunteers and locals) that it's really hard to leave. I remember how special the time was in Ayacucho and Lima, and I hope there are no barriers that will hold you back from the experience of a lifetime. You will get to travel to one of the most adventurous countries in the world (mountains up to 22,000 ft, jungle, desert, ocean, cliffs, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu, and on and on.) You will get to experience a completely novel culture. And you will be a part of something bigger than yourself — serving mankind and fanning a flame of hope and joy that for so many has grown faint. I promise you won't regret going, so what are you waiting for?

Sabrina
Where on earth to begin? My work assignment was the Yanamilla maximum security facility of Ayacucho. I worked with the children of female inmates.

Service is hard or can be so, yet there was only one day that I woke up and said; "I would give anything to not have to go to work today." Out of 12 weeks of service, to have only one day where I would have rather stayed in bed is amazing. Not to say that I jumped out of bed with eagerness each and every day; of course not. But, as soon as I walked through the gate of La Cuna where we played with the kids, it was all good. As soon as I heard one of them screech my name and come running for a hug that would knock over a grown bull, I couldn't think of anything better. We played, we made a mess, we watched movies, had parties...so much in such a short time.

When it was time to go, I thought I might be a little sad but I wasn't prepared for the burst of tears that rushed out when it came time to tell the moms and kids how indebted I was to them for letting me be a part of their daily lives for 12 short weeks. I miss them still and know I will go back.

As for the city of Ayacucho, how beautiful! A real living city. The plaza, the people, the market madness...vibrant, curious and fascinating. To think of what they have lived through in recent history, then to see their determination to overcome the grief and confusion of those times, is a testament to their extreme resilience and strength.

Quinn is right, Peru is in my heart.

Sarah
I spent 4 weeks working in a classroom of five-year-olds within an orphanage. It was the most amazing experience of my entire life. Because of that trip I came to realize how big the world is — how enriching it is to live among different cultures. Today, over a month after I returned, I think of my experiences, and especially the people I met there, constantly. I am a more aware, open person, and I have found not only things within myself, but my life calling and aspiration.

Pamela
My story with CCS is the answer to "what happens if you fall in love?" I fell in love with the people and places in and around Lima, and decided to stay. It took six years, and lots of help from CCS, but now I live in Villa El Salvador for six months of the year, and do a little traveling and working at home (New England) during the rest of the time.

With CCS support and encouragement, I have been able to start a non-profit organization called "Adopt a Grandparent (Adopta un Abuelito), Inc. to attempt to raise funds for the poorest of the poor in Villa and elsewhere.

Russia

Jonathan McLaughlin
My four-week stay in Russia was intense and enlightening. During the week, my days were full of challenging activities and cultural events which required me, above all, to try new things. The weekends allowed me to explore the country on my own. The experience was incredibly rewarding. Working with the children was great, and I got to learn more about Russia than I thought was possible in only four weeks.

Corey Stilts
Even after reading all your great stories and receiving all the praise from previous volunteers, the experience still exceeded my expectations.

Melissa
I volunteered in Russia for 5 weeks this past summer (2004). There are really no words to describe my experience there. Everything about it was amazing. The first week I worked at the Perakopski Orphanage and the Shelter. I enjoyed the orphanage but I liked the shelter more because there we were able to work with both older and younger kids. At Perakopski there are so many little kids that it's hard to work with the older ones because the little ones are so demanding of your time. I loved the shelter. All the kids there were great. The oldest were 2 girls, one was 12 and one was 13, and the youngest were 2 little girls, Anya and Nastia, they're both 3. I worked there all of my second week. Unfortunately the 3rd week they were quarantined for having the German Measles and we weren't allowed to play with them again for 3 weeks. That 3rd week was the last week I was there so I wasn't able to work with them before I left.

The last 3 weeks I worked in the Deaf Orphanage across the Volga River. Well, it's really a kindergarten that also functions as an orphanage. Some of the kids go there for the day or for a week and then their parents come get them that night or for the weekend. But then there are other kids whose parents have abandoned them. Those kids became my life. I loved them so much and always will. There was one little boy, Sasha, he's 3 and he took a liking to me. When I arrived everyday he would run and jump into my arms. He would take me on walks to pet the dog, and he would whine when the ladies who worked there came near him because he didn't want them to take him away. He also knew our van. He would walk to the driveway and shrug his shoulders, wondering where it was; and then when it finally came he would cry. Then there is Daniel, well we call him Bubba because he is 19 months and looks like he's at least 2 and 1/2. He was being potty trained, and still probably is, but he would be playing in the sandbox and one of the ladies would come pick him up and set him on this little potty in the grass. He would cooperatively sit there playing with the grass until he had been there long enough that the lady would let him go play again. It is by far the cutest thing I've ever seen.

My time in Russia has been the best experience I have ever had and probably will have. The translators are all so wonderful and Nadia, the Director is such a sweetheart, if you don't like a placement she will change it for you, she is so flexible. I will go back, soon, I am hoping to go back 2 summers from now, and I CAN'T WAIT!!!

Jennifer
This whole experience and all the people we met in Russia are something I'll never forget! I definitely want to go back someday, and I certainly left feeling like I was so much more capable and independent than I ever could have dreamed. This trip really made me want to get involved, not just in international volunteering, but in different cultures as well. For myself, I really just suddenly saw the world for what it is — so much bigger than me or my community, or even my country, and that was revealing. But most of all, this trip really took me out of my "comfort zone" and that's something I really think everyone should try just once, because it's such a priceless opportunity to learn about yourself and others, and really we all are a lot more similar than we are different!

Trisha
I learned a lot about myself and how to survive even when I don't speak the language. It taught me a lot about myself and how self-sufficient I really am, I've always wanted to work with foster children or orphans, and working in the orphanage gave me so much energy. I was tired physically, but so happy and content being there; this is what I'm supposed to do, this gave me energy and fulfillment and contentment; this is what I'm supposed to do for the rest of my life.

Charles
All in all, it was a wonderful and an amazing experience. Before I went to Yaroslavl, I said this to myself, "If I could bring a little joy and a little happiness into somebody's life over there, the trip would have been worthwhile." I hope I have accomplished that. But more importantly, I have gained a lot in return; that three week experience has enriched my life far, far more than I can ever imagine. I would go through that experience again and again and again. The staff — Nadia and all six interpreters — are all wonderful people to work with. They go out of their way to help us volunteers, even way after the normal "office hours." They have all earned my respect and admiration. I love them dearly. I would recommend CCS to anyone who is even remotely contemplating doing volunteer work. There is no finer organization.

South Africa

Amber Kilpatrick
My placement felt like a second home to me. The 'mamas' were very welcoming and helpful. Even with a language barrier I was still very comfortable.

Leigh Sorkin
My placement was amazing and unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The women who ran the facility were welcoming, engaging, and very appreciative of the help.

Jessica Lincoln
I am encouraging anyone and everyone to take a trip with CCS. I have let people read my trip journal and see my pictures, and hopefully that will encourage people to go. I think the most effective way to encourage people would be to talk to them face to face, so I am trying to spread the word by mouth. I am also planning to do this again, and this time I am taking my little brother with me!

We crammed so much into our weekends that it made my head spin, but I was always still psyched for work the next Monday. I loved climbing Table Mountain, even though it was a challenge. The view from the top was well worth it, and because it was such a struggle and one of the first things our group did, it was a real bonding experience. I also went shark-cage diving, I toured the winelands, I went to Cape Point, and I did a lot of shopping. Probably my favorite weekend was when we all went to the Inverdoorn game reserve for a night. It was beautiful and exciting, and I would recommend that place to anyone.

Tanzania

Ashley Washburn
It was great to learn about the culture and language from the people there. I think the Kiswahali lessons were the most useful and it was great fun to practice using our new knowledge on our students.

Nicole Wright
I loved the traditional arts and dancing we watched, and how the CCS staff arranged speakers to talk to us about things such as gender issues, development, and the education system.

Hannah Friedman
I really enjoyed my time in Tanzania. I was extremely touched by how genuine and friendly Tanzanians are, and I just loved experiencing a completely different way of being than I am used to. It's hard to explain it all, but I truly felt welcomed and very happy to be there.

I was extremely happy that staff was so accommodating to my religious needs, i.e. the fact that I am a religious Jew was completely respected. I truly appreciated that and that is why I chose to go with CCS.

Corinne Marie LeBaron
I fell in love with the country. I was able to go on safari (Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater & the Serengeti) as well as spend a weekend on the island of Zanzibar. My favorite thing was just spending my free afternoons and evenings exploring the local village and town of Moshi- speaking with people, walking around, checking out stores, restaurants, markets, local non-profit organizations, etc. I will definitely go back to Tanzania- I still need to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro!

Almira Ramji
This experience has already started to affect my life. I now work with children in Canada, and seeing the way children live in Africa really made me realize how lucky we are to have so many resources and learning tools. I have also learned a lot of new skills, especially when working with children from different backgrounds. This is helpful since our country is becoming so multi-cultural.

Daniel
Well, after being home for a couple of months and looking back and reflecting on my trip to Tanzania I have really changed. I was part of the Moshi group and worked at schools and orphanages. It was amazing because I was teaching to kids about the same age as me. I am 13 years old and I had the most amazing time of my life. People might say that I was too young and didn't learn much but let me tell you that I probably learned a lot more about the culture than most did. Some of the kids looked to me as a friend and we played together and they showed me all the secrets in town. Also, the kids at the orphanage were not as scared of me as they were of the adults. So if you have a kid who really wants to go but you are worried, let them go because I know I have changed and I am willing to bet they will to. Sometimes big things come in small packages. Remember - just one friend can change their world and ours. Kwa Heri ("Goodbye" in Swahili).

Kaitlyn
My experience in Tanzania was unforgettable. The program and the infrastructure truly allow you to do as much or as little as you want, depending on what you want to get out of it. I worked at a Patandi Nursery School, teaching English to 3-5 year olds. Through my time there, I really got to know some of the individual children (although it was hard, because there were 78 in my class). I loved working with them everyday, seeing them remember things I had taught them and remember songs we had sung. In searching for something that I could leave them with for the long-term, I decided to get permission to paint the inside of their school, which was previously a hideous shade of beige. The look on their faces when they walked into their newly painted schoolroom was unforgettable. All in all, I gained a fresh perspective on life in other parts of the world, which in turn has changed the way that I look at my life in the US.

Rachel
Whether it was climbing part of Kilimanjaro, flying to Zanzibar, or just hanging out in the village, I found it amazing to meet new people, have new experiences, and get to know the country as a more than a tourist.

Sarah
This experience completely exceeded all my expectations. I was amazed at how friendly and welcoming the people of Tanzania were to us. They were happy to see us and share stories with us and interested to learn about our culture, too. The other volunteers were also great. It was valuable as a cultural, professional and personal experience. It has opened my eyes to new possibilities and opened my mind to new cultures. I will never forget Tanzania or the people there and I can't wait to do another CCS program.

Thailand

Anonymous
I volunteered in Bangkok over the summer of '06. I loved it, and wish I could still be there. I live in South Beach, Andover and this past weekend, I was riding my bike down Lincoln Road and ran into a sort of open market that IMMEDIATELY reminded me of the market in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. I walked around, checked out the stalls and as I was getting to one of the last little tents, I saw exactly what I would see in a Thailand market... Buddha's etc. I was immediately drawn in and had to find out if the merchandise was authentic. My question was answered when I saw a cute little Asian woman with a big smile and a friendly personality with the customers. I told her about how I had been to Thailand, and how I had been there to volunteer. With her wonderful typical big Thai smile (which I miss so much) she said, "Thank you so much for going to my country and volunteering." That sentence alone meant so much to me...it made the entire trip worthwhile all over again.

Purvi Shah
A notable part of my trip was getting to listen to and speak with monks and visiting different temples to learn about Buddhism which is integral to the Thai lifestyle. I got to further embrace the Thai culture by attending meditation sessions guided by monks, Thai cooking lessons, and language lessons. Along with a group of volunteers, I was able to make weekend excursions to the northern, mountainous city of Chiang Mai, the old, historic capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya, and the southern beaches of Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands. Nevertheless, just living in Bangkok, exploring the city, and interacting daily with Thai people proved to be very educational.

Rachel Ko
It was a growing experience in a very supported environment. Everything was open to exploration and you decide your own pace and direction.

Esther and David
Letter to Pimsuda, Thailand Country Director
We often think back to our time with CCS in Thailand and how much we enjoyed the experience. The work was very rewarding, but the cultural exchange program that you prepared for us was especially enjoyable. In the short time we were there we saw parts of Bangkok and aspects of Thai life which the average tourist would never have experienced.

We should like to thank you all therefore, for the wonderful way you looked after us and entertained us. If we ever decide to do something like this again we shall of course contact you first. We really appreciated the dedication and hard work of all the CCS staff and wish you all well in the future.

Best Wishes,
Esther & David Howard

Janice Greene
Excerpts from the San Francisco Chronicle, Jan 30, 2005, titled "Sent to tutor Thai monks, teacher becomes a student".

I knew the monks liked bingo, but I didn't know much else about how to teach them.

Months before the tsunami created a need for another kind of volunteer, I had signed up for a three-weeks assignment with Cross-Cultural Solutions in Bangkok. My task: to teach English to a class of 20-ish monks at Mahamakut Buddhist University.

Oh, I knew a few customs regarding monks. Women aren't supposed to touch them, sit or stand next to them, or even brush against their robes. Objects must not be handed directly to a monk, but set down, so that he can pick them up. I was anxious about facing a classroom full of monks, but what worried me most was that I'd forget what I was doing and touch one of them.

Thais are tolerant and welcoming people, yet deeply offended by cultural transgressions. These include: slighting their beloved king, public displays of affection and showing lots of skin. We volunteers were advised to dress modestly, in short sleeves, collared shirts and skirts covering the knee.

So I arrived at the classroom with my teaching partner, Jo Ellen Smith from Pittsburgh, Penn., dressed for the office and barefoot (shoes are left at the university entrance) and faced the class. We had no experience teaching English. We'd never met a monk before. We'd paid $2,000-plus to come to Bangkok to make a small difference in the world. Could we reach across a huge cultural divide and help these young men in saffron robes learn English?

We gave the monks the most reverential Thai greeting — hands lifted to the top of the forehead coupled with a bow — and began sharing photos from home: family, the house, the dog. A few shyly asked questions. Some of their English I couldn't understand at all.

In the days that followed, Jo Ellen and I made up dialogues for them to recite. We had them form sentences from lists of words, and I had to demonstrate to a confused monk that, "I put the chair under the table" actually meant the entire chair, not just the seat. English is difficult, they told me. And I saw just how difficult it could be. We coached them on pronunciation every day. Their concentration was visible as they tried, again and again, to pronounce "the."

We pushed them. They had to speak up. They had to tell us if they didn't understand something. They began to loosen up, even tell us what they wanted to work on. And their voices became louder and surer, except for the big, round-face monk I thought of as Mr. Shy. Before it was his turn to speak up, Mr. Shy would move to the back of the class.

They surprised us in a dozen ways. When putting sentences together, the word they chose most frequently was "beautiful." They had some of the warmest smiles I've ever seen. After class, several would come up to us, saying, "Thank you, teacher." They wished us good dreams that night. Once we were startled by a cell phone's ring, and even more surprised to see a monk pull a phone from his robe (from where, exactly?).

We probably surprised them a lot, too. Being women, we were an exotic presence at the university. The proof was the bathrooms. There were no labels on them for men or women. They were just bathrooms, and there were only men around. I did all I could to avoid using them.

I hoped the monks could tell me about Buddhism and about what they did, but that was far beyond their abilities in English. I did learn more from Cross-Cultural Solutions. The staff answered a lot of my questions. (That cell phone? I found out that monks have a kind of pocket inside their robes.)

Besides room and board, and transportation to one's work site, Cross-Cultural Solutions provides daily culture sessions. Ours included a visit from a monk, a teaching assistant from Mahamakut University nicknamed Art, who explained the fundamentals of Buddhism. From Art, I learned another taboo: A monk must never be in a private room with a woman.

In class, we got into a rhythm. Today's lesson was built on yesterday's stumbling block. We moved around the class a lot and once I might have lightly brushed against a monk's robe. I wasn't sure, and I hope he never felt it. One day, though, I held out an assignment for a monk to take. He sat still and looked at me patiently. "Oh!" I said, and put the assignment on his desk.

It wasn't serious, but I didn't want to accumulate any more cultural gaffes during my remaining time. These open-hearted young men had already claimed a special place in my thoughts. I didn't want to be remembered for a clumsy act of disrespect.

Before I was ready to say good-bye, the last day arrived. The office staff gave Jo and me bunches of three-inch long bananas, the best I ever tasted. After class, the head monks entered the room, and Jo and I were presented with tea trays, a handsome book of the university's art, and a certificate, which concluded with, "May Buddhist Triple Gems bless her forever." We took pictures and a few of the monks gave us gifts. Mr. Shy gave me an amulet, putting it on the desk in front of me and quickly retreating to the back of the room.

And it was over. It had been a long day and I'd drunk too much tea. I ducked into an empty bathroom, and when I emerged from the stall, there was a monk at the sink, brushing his teeth. Here I was, alone with a monk in a very private room. For a dead-silent moment, we stared at each other in the mirror. Then I said hello in my best Thai accent, and gave him the greeting for monks. He turned to face me -- and chuckled.

In that moment, I found a formula to guide me in future trips: Learn all you can about another culture, play it from the heart, and the rest will fall into place.

Audra
Thailand has done more for me than I ever thought possible. The Cross-Cultural Solutions Trang program has allowed me to open my eyes to a world I never knew existed, and I am now a stronger person because of it, both inside and out. I have also decided what I'm going to do when I graduate.... I'm going to become a teacher.

Sarah
My overall experience was fabulous. I thought the program was really well organized and well-run. I loved my placement and I was grateful for the opportunity to travel on the weekends. I thought it was the perfect combination of volunteer work, cultural immersion and exploring the country.