Coming to Camillian has been one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences of my life. By Volunteering here I have had the opportunity to experience a different culture, work with some of the most amazing and loving children in the world, and learn so much about the kindness and generosity people have toward one another. The people here are some of the best you will meet, the children and the staff are welcoming, friendly, and generous. They go out of their way to make you feel welcomed and loved. Even with the language barrier this place felt like home almost immediately.

Thailand is known as the land of smiles, and that is truly exemplified here at Camillian. Each person here whether it be a staff member, a student, or one of the Fathers was constantly trying to communicate with us and show us part of their world, through exploring or story telling, and always with a smile on their face. Even the people of the nearby villages have taken us in on numerous occasions, asked us about home, shared stories of their families, and fed us foods we will never be able to pronounce. The people here make everyday seem like that perfect summer day, laid back, full of fun, and spent with friends and family, what could be better?

Just being here is an amazing experience but the truly rewarding part comes when working with these fantastic kids. Upon coming here we were not sure what exactly to expect, we knew we would be working with children with disabilities but that was about it. The children may be disabled but their creativity, personality, and generosity is in no way disabled. Each child has their own unique personality that they share with you. It may be playing tricks, just wanting to love on you, or sharing their passion for singing with you, but each kid has something awesome to offer you. Through teaching the kids we were able to interact with them on a more individual basis, explore the knowledge they already have, and work on teaching them the best way possible.

I have had more fun teaching and learning with these kids than I thought possible, between class time, field trips, and playtime, I have had the time of my life and they have taught me more than I could imagine. They have taught me to appreciate life a little more, they have taught me what a good dance party can do for you, and they have taught me to cherish relationships with friends and families that much more, all by the way they live and the appreciation they have for their lives and for one another. I am so thankful for Camillian Social Center Chiang Rai and the Home of Charity for taking us in and allowing us to work with such amazing children and staff. I could not imagine a better or more rewarding volunteer experience! I am already looking forward to returning and reuniting with my new friends and family.

With Love, Katie Email: theworldwherewestand@gmail.com