pcv projects
Cross-sector PCVs support each other for greater good
By Lew Hemmer, MAK 16
While working with an NGO whose mission is the“ deinstutionalization of people with mental handicaps,” it struck me that their beneficiaries were frequently quite sedentary. We seek to help all of the beneficiaries: we serve to improve their general well-being, help them acquire independent ADL( activities of daily living) skills and become integrated in all social spheres of the community. Additionally, we work to educate the community about the capabilities of our beneficiaries in order to enhance understanding and acceptance on the part of the general community. In an attempt to enhance the capacity of my NGO in their mission and physically engage the beneficiaries, I initiated an“ Exercise for the Health of it” program funded by a SPA grant. Along with the leadership of a HCN volunteer, who has experience as a personal fitness trainer, we now meet with the beneficiaries three evenings each week. Every session begins with stretching exercises and ends with some strengthening exercises. The heart of each session focuses on different sport activities, such as basketball and( European) football. Our beneficiaries have begun to understand and demonstrate teamwork, taking turns, and supporting and encouraging each other for common goals. Additionally, they are gaining self-confidence.
A few months ago, fellow PCV Beverly Milhoan( MAK17) received a supply of Wiffle bats and balls from friends in the States. She had already introduced the game to students at her school, where she is teaching English, so she generously shared some of her Wiffle Ball equipment with me after hearing about my sport & exercise program. Thanks to her donation, I have added Wiffle Ball to our program and we are attempting to teach our beneficiaries the same qualities as described above through the fun
Wiffle
Ball!
Everyone is included, even this blind beneficiary
Each session starts with stretching and exercise 32 – Pauza Magazine
Learning the v