Upon finishing my Masters in International Development I soon realised I needed volunteering experience in a developing country to begin my career in this field. My requirements were only that it be a country where I could afford to stay for 4 months with my budget, and that the NGO did not charge a ridiculous joining fee. Having just finished the MA I was really keen to put into practice what I’d learnt, so I was looking for an NGO where I could take on some real responsibility and put my ideas forward. After narrowing down a few options I finally decided on Changes for New Hope, because Jim was very proactive about answering my queries and seemed keen to take on someone with new ideas and lots of motivation. I arrived in March, and I didn’t speak any Spanish, but thought that this would be a great opportunity to learn, so although the language barrier slowed my contribution at first, it wasn’t too long before I spoke enough to feel comfortable teaching the children and networking with locals to make new links for the NGO. After 3 months I decided 4 months was not long enough so I missed my flight (I was unable to change it) and I am still here now (January 2012). Needless to say I have not been disappointed with regards to my experience volunteering with Changes For New Hope.
During this time I have been able to use my initiative and put my own ideas forward regarding monthly planning, our activities as an NGO and organising fundraising events, which has all been great experience for my career and has ensured that I am happy volunteering here. For a while I had been thinking about a Sports Day event to bring all the children together and invite parents, and finally in August I met a local association who were able to help us to make that happen in September in a very successful Sports Day which included a puppet show and educational talks about hygiene, road safety and recycling. The fundraising events that I have been able to organise have helped cover weekly costs such as fruit and milk, as well as larger costs such as Christmas parties and small presents for the children. I enjoy organising events and seeing the rewards for the hard work involved so this aspect suits my character. Of course not all our volunteers like to take on so much work, however Changes For New Hope is very flexible and likes to make the most of volunteers skills and interests, which is important for a positive volunteering experience.
As for our daily activities with the children in four different locations, I really appreciate the variety and flexibility in our ‘curriculum’. This allows us to try new approaches and ideas as well as ensuring that we lead activities that we also enjoy ourselves. The children are very loving and it is easy to build a good relationship with them as they are always welcoming to newcomers. Since we go to the children in their communities rather than work from one central location for all, I have been able to get to know four different communities around Huaraz, each with their own characteristics and needs. This means that we have been able to build up a relationship with many of the parents and community leaders, which is ideal because we have been able to cooperate with them on several occasions. I never tire of the views and scenery in these locations and the welcome that we receive from the children and families is incredibly rewarding.
I would recommend Changes For New Hope to anyone who likes working with people and in particular children, and who has a passion to make an impact (however large or small) in a place where it will be greatly appreciated. Specific skills can always be put to use here, but even if you are just motivated and enthusiastic about our work there is a place for you to volunteer with us. Huaraz itself is a good location for volunteers given its incredible surroundings and the variety of activities to participate in.