My son will definitely remember this trip and I believe it's influenced him in ways he doesn't even know about yet. Meeting the people he did, hearing their stories - so very different than his own or anyone he knows. Seeing how others live. That happiness for a lot of people isn't based on possessions. That we live in a little bubble here, that while it is "real life" there is so much more out there. That you can push yourself in ways you didn't know you could physically. That a leader can lead by example rather than words.
My child LOVED this trip. Much was gained in terms of confidence, empathy for others, and now tremendous interest in service abroad.
My son had a ton to say about the Tipitapa trip. The work level seemed right for him, and he especially likes making friends with and interacting with the people in the community. He has said he's interested in another ODFL trip next summer.
Most definitely! It sure has made such a wonderful impact on my daughter that she regrets not having known about this organization earlier!! She loved the environment, loved the culture & the interaction with people. She returned with this one thought on her mind that, "There is so much happiness & laughter in such simplicity!"
Thank you! Our chaperones were amazing and we're very grateful to them for making the trip so great - overseeing everything but not micro managing them.
Every time a child travels and sees the world and how other people live his / she grows as an individual
The experience of interacting with the locals and seeing their living situations, yet everyone is happy with what they have.