Going into the orphanage, our group wasn’t really sure what to expect after being immersed in the rainforest environment for the past week. We got off the bus and immediately went to the community space where the kids slowly started to trickle in. The children ranged from newborn to seventeen years old. We separated ourselves, while the children gathered around us in groups and got to know us each individually. Our group read and colored with them as they asked us Spanish words in English. The most rewarding part was when they brought us back to their rooms and trusted us enough to show where they slept. After wards, our group either went to play soccer, played on the playground, or sang and danced with the volunteer music group that was preforming. We were able to show them some American dances such as ‘soldier boy’ as they mimicked our moves. When it was time to leave, it was one of the hardest goodbyes we had to make, knowing we would not be coming back, at least anytime soon.
6
Z - In Search of the Sustainable Soul
Santa Monica
Orphanage
"Looking at the children in the Santa Monica Orphanage and knowing, in that moment, you are their world gave me the perspective that to them, it’s all about the present. They live for the times that people show love, care, and respect to them and that alone is enough."
- Kendall G '18
Hearts
without HOMES
by Kendall G
Members of our Project Term group are working to establish a penpal project with the children at the Santa Monica Orphanage in Iquitos, Peru. If interested, please contact [email protected].