Life of a Volunteer

Two years ago I volunteered with Seeds of Hope for just two weeks. During that time, my perspective on the world shifted significantly. Getting to know the 50 or so kids that we service while living with an apartment full of international volunteers was an experience that challenged my assumptions and outside perspective. My sheltered American life could only teach me concepts from a distant position rather than through authentic experiences. Not only did I get to engage with diverse groups of people in Huaraz who belonged to a different socioeconomic status than me, but I got to discuss topics with volunteers such as their concerns for their country's political direction as well as our differences in upbringings. However, the most impactful part of the trip was working with the kids. Previously serving in my local community in Akron, Ohio, it became obvious these Peruvian students showed more respect to me even though I struggled with communication via Spanish. They receive little to no governmental support in a financial position much worse than my country's inner cities yet they show up cheerful and optimistic nearly every day.

For these reasons, I decided to apply and accept the six month position as international coordinator.  I studied for five months in Lima with much unfinished business in South America. With this opportunity, my objectives were as such:

• Serve the community of Huaraz through investing in their most impoverish students
• Ensure a quality experience for international volunteers
• Learn more Spanish 
• Explore the beautiful landscapes of the area

Although I have only been here for a week, my expectations have been greatly surpassed. The group of volunteers consisting of a French-Canadian, German, American, and 2 Welsh gals have provided a comfortable environment in a sea of unfamiliarity. We are socially engaged through swimming, playing billiards, hiking a beautiful trek over the weekend, and domestic activites like watching adventure movies. This place definitely attracts a certain type of person best described as "ambitious idealist". The mountains attract the adventurous while the mission of Seeds brings the kind-hearted game changers. All the volunteers are in a state of unfamiliarity with Huaraz so they are extremely welcoming and open. They are as interested in my life as I am in theirs. We work, travel, and socialize together and it is awesome (although I do get my share of essential privacy too!) 

As the average stay of a Seeds volunteer is often more than a month, some symptoms of culture shock are expected. This is no luxury vacation for sure! I am adjusting to life without a microwave, good water pressure, and a level of inability to communicate with locals. I miss my college friends and the conveniences of living in a developed country (I spent over an hour washing my clothes by hand yesterday). However, leaving my comfort zone in the US brings many life lessons and experiences that would not be possible otherwise. A new environment with new responsibilities has shifted my identity while humbling my confident attitude from my country. I have no regrets and look forward to planting my roots here...at least temporarily.

-Jake Brock, USA