Volunteering in Morocco

The tasks I performed at the orphanage included giving them a bath, feeding them breakfast, taking them out for recess, feeding them lunch, putting them down for an afternoon nap. Since most all the children in my ward were confined to a wheelchair, a lot of physical labor was involved. Beyond forming bonds with the children, the other volunteers and I were able to provide relief to the staff. They were greatly overworked and severely underpaid. Most had not had a day off in years! Therefore, having the volunteers allowed them to take time off. I also felt positive about how I represented the US. I formed very special bonds with the staff at the orphanage, the kids, and the local Cross-Cultural Solutions staff. I also met other locals outside my program with whom I was able to have interesting conversations about the perceptions of Americans abroad. I learned so much from all the people I met; they truly touched my life forever.