Kenya - Volunteers' Reviews

2 weeks stay, shade orphanage.

On my way over to Kenya to volunteer with Global Crossroads I had no idea what to expect. Now after 2 weeks in Kenya I can safely say it has been one of the best and most rewarding experiences of my life.

Working at shades orphanage was both fun and hard work and I am truly sad to have to leave. The children are beautiful, talented and amazing each in their own unique way and I feel privileged to have had a chance to meet them all. My only regret is that I feel I have not had enough time to make a significant impact/improvement in their lives.

Going for safari to maasai mara was another memorable experince, especially visiting maasai village and battering our clothes and accessories.

Staying in the host house was possibly one of my favorite aspects of the trip as I was extremely well looked after and welcomed by Margaret and met a bunch of new friend from all around the world.

Overall I have had an amazing time and one of the best experiences of my life and would recommend it to anyone with a spirit of adventure and an open mind.

Chloe Barnes

Stay in Kenya - 2 weeks placement at Shade Orphanage.

I have had an experience of a lifetime in Kenya and would recommend to anyone that they have volunteer and see the country.

My highlights of Nairobi would be playing with the children at the orphanage and my tour of Kibera, which was truly an eye opening experience.

I went on safari in maasai mara and saw lots of animals. The highlight would have to be sitting around the campfire and talking with the maasai people.

I only wish I could have stayed longer and would like to return to Kenya soon to continue working with the people here.

Everyone I have met through this program (both Kenyans and other volunteers) has been very friendly and wonderful.

Joanna Hos

A Life Changing Experience

I visited Kenya in August of 2005. It began as a fulfillment of my lifelong dream of visiting Africa. I announced to my adult children that I had made a decision to follow my dream. My daughter Diana volunteered to come with me. Diana has been to Africa and I think she thought her mother needed a chaperone to help keep me out of trouble! I was overjoyed and we immediately went to a site I had found on the internet--Global Crossroads and filled out the applications. Now the excitement was starting to grow! Global Crossroads was wonderful in answering my numerous questions and were always available to provide me with information. They were patient and kind and made me feel that I had made the right decision in choosing them as the company to assist me in my plans. We started reading tour books, surfing the internet and getting reports from other people who had volunteered, to increase our knowledge of the people and culture of Kenya. We got all of our required shots for travel, passports and visas, plane tickets and cameras and really thought we were well prepared for our adventure. But little did I know that there is nothing that will prepare you for what you will experience! I thought I would be going to help children, learn about a different culture, and see a beautiful country----not in my wildest dreams did I think that it would teach me more about myself and give me a deep appreciation of the country that I live in.

We arrived in Nairobi late at night and with the help of some very nice people in the airport we got a safe taxi and went to the hotel we had previously booked. Early the next morning our program coordinator met us in the hotel lobby. Just seeing (Beckie), the coordinator, and her smiling face put me at ease. We were immediately taken to our host family's home and were greeted warmly by Susan, our host mother. Susan became our rock! Susan, her husband John and her beautiful sons made us feel right at home. The food was terrific, the conversation wonderful and we developed a close relationship with our family. Susan gently guided us, answered questions and took excellant care of us while we were in their home. She truely cared that we were comfortable, safe and that we felt welcomed. English is the second language of many of the people there so communication is not a problem.

After dropping off our luggage we were taken to the ByGrace Orphanage. I am a nurse and have worked in poverty areas and really thought I knew what to expect. I had read the material from Global Crossroads about Third World countries and I really thought I knew what being poor meant-- and then we entered into the slum district where the orphanage is located. I was speechless. The smells, noise, confusion and dirt were shocking. My excitement quickly turned to horror as I first looked at the orphanage. And then my horror turned to joy when I saw the smiling faces of the children and the welcoming greetings from the staff and headmaster. They were all so happy to see us! They made us forget the initial shock and made us feel like we were the most important people in the world!

Salome, the administrator, is a woman dedicating her life in helping the street children live healthy, happy lives. She is firm in her belief that this is her life mission and with the volunteer teachers and headmaster Ken, she is making this happen. The centre is relatively new and they have come a long way since the beginning. Salome is happy to answer questions and explain the ways of the orphanage. Here I must tell you, go with an open mind and heart---don't judge the way things are done--ask questions when you don't understand something. Remember that this is a different culture, what we see as priorities, are not always what their priorities are. An example--money must go to food for the children first--and then the extras like school books must come after that. There are over 160 children living there and at times providing one meal a day for them is a mighty feat. You will be shocked at the bathroom facilities, lack of personal hygiene products and seeing 15 children sleeping in one room on thin mats. You'll cry when you hear the personal stories of the children and what their young lives have been like. Some children have been found alone on the streets, others have lost both parents to HIV, then the abuse they have endured from neighbors or other members of their families will make you realize how very lucky you are and how very lucky that the children have found this refuge. And through all this, they smile, sing, and tell you how thankful they are to be at the center because it is a million times better than the streets they have come from. The children are healthy, polite, happy and are being well educated. The ages are from 3 to teenagers. They share textbooks and yet are well spoken and can communicate on many subjects from world events to biology. They love to hear about life in other countries and to discuss what they plan on doing as adults. They will absolutely steal your heart, and also make you wish you had paid more attention in chemistry class! They have little in personal effects but are thankful for the smallest thing like an orange or your smile or hug. The orphanage may be physically lacking but it has made many changes and each new improvement is considered a blessing and a reason to celebrate. Each child, teacher, volunteer will make you feel so welcomed and appreciated. There are alot of fun times too. We brought balloons and had fun with a parade in the play yard. There is lots of singing, joking and playing volleyball and soccer. All they want is your attention and they give back so much love. After the first day you no longer see the dismal surroundings---you only see their smiling faces and feel the warmth of their excitement just seeing you walk in the door.

The safari was wonderful. You will see hundreds of animals and the guide is excellant at making your trip enjoyable. The scenery is beautiful, the company fun and the food great. We met many people from other countries and had a wonderful time trading stories. Kenya is a beautiful country. It will steal your heart and make you long to go back.

Some tips: Prepare yourself for the number of beggars on the streets, and hold your wallet tight. If you decide to go to the Masai Market go with a local person and not alone! Bring clothes that are for work like jeans and tshirts, and shoes that are hardy, comfortable and protect your feet. Bring a fanny pack or small backpack for carrying essentials like antiseptic wipes, money, camera, etc. Some volunteers left their work clothes for the children at the orphanage--it made the children happy and also made more room in their suitcases for souvenirs when heading home. Washing your clothes is by hand. There are lots of internet cafes (although very slow and not always available) It sometimes takes ten minutes to send one email. So let your family know ahead that this may be a problem especially if it is your only way of communication. Getting a cheap cellphone when you arrive in Nairobi is priceless. Prices in Kenya are in Kenyan shillings and items are relatively cheap. Bring extra money $500 to $1000 to use on your weekend trips and shopping. You can do it for alot less but your stay will be more enjoyable if you plan on extra for taxis, trips, bottled water, and other items. Exchange your foreign money into Kenyan currency as soon as you can when you arrive-makes life alot easier. In Nairobi there is a store called Nakumatt that we called the African Walmarts. It has everything from pens to clothes to food. Be aware that the electricity in Kenya is very unstable so bring things with you that can be done with a flashlight like cards, crossroad puzzles etc. You may want to bring something from your state or country for gifts to your host family.

Some wonderful sites located around Nairobi that you don't want to miss are The Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen house, Kazuri Jewelry Center (where Kenyan women make beautiful handmade ceramic jewelry, and pottery) Be sure to go to the Kenyan Animal Safari and the Hotel Stanley. So many wonderful places to see!

Also remember to bring your sense of humor and go with the understanding that nothing is done quickly in Africa.

I loved my adventure in Africa and believe me---it was a trip of a lifetime. You will learn so much, help others and yet the experience will give back to YOU so much more! You will be filled with the joy of helping people and at the same time you will learn so much about yourself and truely appreciate what you have. The most amazing thing that you will begin to understand is how difficult living in a third world country is and the obstacles that these people face to succeed. They work hard but fight against government corruption and neglect, small salaries, and few modern conveniences. ( you will kiss your microwave and refrigerator when you get home) You will meet people who give everything to others even though they have very little themselves. You will see people with so much courage and strength that they become heros in your heart. This program allows you to truely experience daily life in a third world country. Don't go if you expect being on holiday---go knowing that you will be experiencing real Kenyan life in a poverty setting and will be making friendships for a lifetime. Prepare yourself for a life changing experience and enjoy every single minute! I left my heart there and will return.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions--I would be happy to help in any way to assist you experience this wonderful adventure!

Chris Hanna

Wonderful Experience in Kenya

When I decided to come to Kenya with Global Crossroad, I was simply trying to satisfy my passion for travelling in a manner that could become a component to my future résumé. My life has afforded me with many travelling opportunities, but what I experienced with my program went well beyond my expectations and is incomparable to my past experiences. I was deposited in an extremely rural village-- the kind without electricity or running water, dirt floors and firewood stoves that you know about in theory but do not really understand practically-- and learned to call it home.

I came as a volunteer in a primary school, having never taught before and was slightly horrified upon arrival. The day I made it to my village, I was brought to the school and greeted by the students. The next day I observed the other teachers, was given copies of the students' math and English books and was expected to start teaching the following day. Well, as I said, I was terrified but took a deep breath and hoped for the best. The students are incredibly well-behaved and I feel they would have shown me respect even if I had shown up in my underwear. The teachers seemed to have total faith in me and never sat in on one of my classes. I had no idea what I was doing, had exactly zero feedback and was responsible for the actual education of real flesh and blood children.

Needless to say, I felt completely lost that first week. I had no idea what the students thought of me, if they were learning anything from me and felt awful for experimenting with this whole teacher thing when their education was on the line. But, I did not give up hope and by the second week I started to form a routine and learn my pupils' names, which helped a lot. Around this time my host mom told me that the students really did like me and I had noticed some of them playing their version of capture the flag, which I had taught them during PE. These two things boosted my confidence which helped me to relax and I started to have fun in class. By the third week I had completely let go of the idea that I was expected to work magic, had become very attached to my students, had befriended the teachers and visited a few and was dreading the day when I would have to leave. By my fourth and final week I had figured out that everything I was teaching from the book had already been taught, did my own thing and had a blast. Then the dreaded day arrived and I had to leave just as I was starting to get ingenious ideas for things I would like to do in the classroom. The unquestioning attitude of the teachers and students that I know what I was doing was a great driving force and, although I would not consider myself a qualified teacher, I learned an incredible amount from my month in the classroom. I truly came to love my students and will miss them greatly. But, I will miss my family even more.

When I first got to my house I was shocked by the dirt floors, my tiny room and was afraid that I would have serious communication problems with my mom. But, I soon learned that she spoke much more English than I originally thought and that any problems we might have were smoothed over by her genuine compassion. I was also surprised to find that after a couple days I no longer noticed the dirt floors and was completely used to not having electricity or running water. It makes sense though; that was the way my family was used to living. It was normal to them and they made it work flawlessly, so it became normal to me. My youngest brother was obviously very excited to have me there but was incredibly shy. Both the older of my two brothers and my dad made me realize how little I know about my country with millions of questions about what kind of crops we grow, how farms are operated, what the cost of land is, the exact workings of the government and on and on. My brother was also very keen on telling me everything about Kenya and I was impressed with how much he knew about his country.

On my first day, my family did not let me do any work. But, I was determined to become a component of the family and not just a stranger staying in their home, so insisted on helping out. For the first couple weeks I felt greatly under-estimated. No one seemed to have any expectations of me. So, minor feats such as making it back from school alone, shelling peas and learning greetings in Kikuyu, were greatly impressive. I started to get very annoyed with the fact that every time I asked to help out my mom would ask, "Are you sure you will make it?" But I always said that I would try. After a while she got used to the idea that I wanted to help and was not totally useless and would not hesitate to give me chores. I had become a part of the family!

Finding where I fit into the family machine and fabric of the school and village were not particularly hard for me but I had some trouble getting used to the intense Christianity of the place. I am not a particularly religious person so going to church and praying before every single meal was a little strange. Whenever someone found out that I did not go to church back home they were totally shocked and two men made it their mission to save me.that I was not at all prepared for and it was most definitely the most challenging part of the entire trip.

On my third weekend I took my brothers to Mombassa, on the coast. At first I did not realize exactly how special this would be. But, many people in the area have never even been to Nairobi and most, including my parents, have never been to Mombassa. The boys had never been swimming or seen the ocean. It was absolutely magical playing in the water with my youngest brother and I will always remember the way he laughed and clutched my hand as we were plummeted by the small waves.

My parents told me that the boys will always remember me because of that trip and I hope they do. I can never forget them. My last morning there was incredibly sad. As I said, I truly felt I had become a part of the family and now I was being torn away, it just was not fair. I think we all cried during breakfast, even my dad had tears in his eyes. I promised I would come back and next time I will have to stay longer than a month. I now have a Kenyan family who I love and who loves me, I don't know what could be more special than that.

Thank you every body for this wonderful time

Graham, Kenya

Volunteer report from Tanzania/Kenya

If "Hakuna Matata" had not become quite as commercialised as it is in the West, it would be the perfect way to describe a project in Kenya . The arrival into the country was marked by an absence of a chaperone at the airport, but any fears were allayed by a simple phonecall. The arrival at the host family was similarly shocking, being greeted by a home in the midst of a whole host of animals. The temperature was surprisingly cold, spectacularly dispelling my misconceptions of Kenyan weather, and if you were thinking that there would be an absence of food, you might find yourself terribly mistaken. The combination of abundant, healthy food and the Kenyan enthusiasm for stuffing visitors to the brim will catch many unawares. "No worries" is just the attitude you need when coming here, as everything pans out fine, albeit not quite as you might expect.

As for the project itself, it was just as you might imagine. The school has 6 forms of children bursting with potential and enthusiasm, and 6 teachers who are very welcoming and glow with the burning passion for teaching. This provided the perfect setting for rewarding volunteer work, with plenty of room given for introduction of new ideas and styles. In our case we thought of putting on a play with form four, something which is not a feature of the curriculum, which was greeted with great pleasure by the Headmaster. We discovered that previous games introduced by past volunteers had gone down well, and it is not hard to imagine each volunteer making a unique impact on the school and the children. The smiles of the children are something which would make any trip worthwhile.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of the trip was attention to safety by the organisation. Not only did they facilitate some fantastic weekends away - such as a climb up Mount Kilimanjaro in the neighbouring Tanzania , a wondering beach retreat to Mombasa and a tour of Hell's Gate National Park , but they made us feel very secure in travelling. They procured whatever information about prospective trips and making the bookings, which would have otherwise been difficult in the isolated home-stay. The minimum that you could expect is that someone would go with you to the point of departure at the relevant transport, and that they would be waiting to pick you up when you return. However, this was often exceeded as members would often accompany us for the duration of the trip - being un-intrusive and simply enhancing the experience. I have had experience of other volunteer organisations in countries such as Honduras , but none have gone so far out of their way to ensure the optimal mix of safety and enjoyment.

We can only say that whatever expectations you might have of your visit to Kenya will quickly be shattered, and replaced with a reality which far exceeds even the most optimistic imagination. We thoroughly recommend the organisation to any prospective travellers.

Christopher and Ada, Kenya

Amazing Kenya

My experience in Kenya was one to remember and cherish. I sent 23 days in South Kinangop living with the Muriu host family and teaching at Faith Hope Primary School .

I arrived on a Sunday afternoon and was graciously welcomed by Christopher and his family, Mary, Samuel, and Joseph. Mary's quite smile put me at ease as she showed me my room and served tea. The family was very attentive in making me feel comfortable and at home.

During my stay, I felt very safe and secure in the home and surrounding area. The walk to school was less than 10 minutes through the fields and on a dirt road. I met many people on the road all who responded to a smile, a hello, or a wave. Even in the shopping center area of Haraka, people were friendly and curious. On a few occasions, the volunteers arrived back into the town from their journeys in the dark and still had to walk quite a distance to reach their host family's' homes. Often there was one of the men from the community waiting in town with a torch to help us get back safely.

The food was plentiful and very good. Mary cooked the meals in my house so that they were diverse and nourishing. The entire family was concerned in meeting my needs including picking up water and recharging my camera batteries in town, warming water for a bath, and seeing that I was well fed. I especially enjoyed the time in the evening when I had a chance to interact with Samuel and Joseph teaching them math games and playing cards.

The three + weeks that I lived in the community and taught at the Faith Hope Primary School went by very quickly indeed. I hope that I made a difference in the lives of the students as well as the teachers. (They had as much fun as the students learning various math and spelling games J .) I hope to remain friends with the Muriu family for years to come and perhaps will have an opportunity to visit them again in the future.

Karin Kelly

Jacqueline Fabian Nairobi, Kenya

I was collected at the airport and driven to the home of the host family and despite some confusion; they welcomed me and made me comfortable until we could establish where I would be staying. Eunice, the Global Crossroad representative arrived the next day to finalize details of my placement and arrange for me to stay with the family come to.

The host family: Ann and Patrick have made sure my stay in Kayole has been a pleasant one. They have made me feel like one of the family and have provided me with my own room where I have been able to work or read. It's been a really good experience staying with Ann, Patrick and their little girl Njeri as it has given me the chance to be part of real life here. The house is a friendly place with people dropping by and the standard of the food has been excellent. Ann has made wonderful vegetarian dishes every day and her cooking has been one of the highlights of my visit. I have been really well looked after by my host family and I will miss these new friends I have made.

The orphanage: By Grace is not far from where I have been staying, so I've been able to walk to and from the Centre, although I've always been accompanied. On my first day I was introduced to the staff and all the classes and was able to listen in at staff meeting where plans for the term were being made, so this gave me an idea of how things work. From the time of my arrival, I was made to feel welcome by everyone at the Centre and I have been treated with kindness and gratitude throughout my stay. My work has been appreciated even though I've been here for such a short time. Conditions at the Centre are very basic but the atmosphere is cheerful and the staff work tirelessly to ensure the children are looked after and educated properly. Most people are volunteers but they are committed to helping the children get a better start in life, and their affection for the children is evident. Both Salome, the director and Ken, the head teacher are people with vision. They inspire the staff and motivate the children but are able to be part of a team and a wider community and they encourage an atmosphere of co-operation and belonging.

My duties at the Centre have included teaching English to standard 6 and form 1 as well as taking Art classes with the smaller children in classes 1- 4. I have also been able to draw teaching aids for the primary department and was present during a recording of a CD by the choir.

During lessons, the students have been quiet and motivated. Their behaviour has been excellent and they have been keen to produce their best work. The students at the Centre are helpful and respectful and my only disappointment is that I am not able to spend more time here, getting to know them better.

Challenges I have faced: Living and working conditions in Kayole are basic, compared with the relative luxury of Oman, so it took a few days to adjust to a new environment. Resources at Bygrace are extremely limited and this affects teaching methods so I have had to tailor activities and lessons accordingly. The willingness of the students to learn and the positive attitude of the staff both help to overcome physical problems. For me, the main challenge has been to be useful to the Centre in such a short space of time. I wanted to contribute something to the lives of the children and hopefully I have given something to them but this is a small offering compared to the staff that devote so much time and energy to the Centre.

Conclusion: So far, I've found this trip to be a very positive experience and I've enjoyed all aspects of my visit to Kenya. I've learnt about faith, friendship and commitment through being at the Centre and I've been forced to question established ideas and beliefs. This trip has been enriching in so many ways and although I came here to help, I'm taking away more than I've given.

JARIYA RASAPUTRA, Nairobi, Kenya

My Experience in Kenya

I took the Global crossroad program on the Mini adventure package to Kenya and it gave me the opportunity to discover Kenya and visit one of the worlds greatest wildlife parks the Masai Mara. Before I arrived in Kenya I took several vaccinations and started on a course of malaria pills. I also budgeted my self for an additional 25% than the suggested budget as an emergency fallback.

I was very happy to meet Patrick and his family who were my host. They advised me and assisted me with all my needs and wants while I was a host and provided the necessary security for me. The By Grace School and orphanage where I would spend my next 2 weeks was about 10 mins walk from Patrick's house.

At By Grace I was able to help with some teaching and helping the school to get some needed resources. We also managed to take the students on a school outing to a local museum and park.

Visit to Nairobi with the students

With my students

The Matron Ms Salome of By Grace was a very nice person and kept us best informed while taking care of the kids. Volunteers like us can greatly help By Grace School to get necessary resources (Which can be well understood only by physically being there) and advice to improve management methods.

Cheetahs at Masai Mara

Masai Dance at Masai Village

The safari given by this program was excellent. The company Planet Safari had a good record and gave us a guide who was very skillful in recognizing and identifying game species at a great distance. He also was a good problem solver.

During our visit to Masai Mara we saw lions, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, hyenas and many other animas. We were also able to visit a nearby Masai village. This whole trip, I will never forget. It was a really a great adventure.

I thank Global Crossroad for offering me a life changing opportunity.

JARIYA RASAPUTRA, Nairobi, Kenya

Christina Cabbage

I would like to thank you for all of your attention. I arrived on Wednesday night and was I was taken to a Safe Hotel by a driver.The following morning I was brought to Komorock and introduced to the Orphanage. Thank you Beth for being available for questions and last minute arrangements to Nairobi. I appreciate your presence and all your help. Your smile often brighten my days. If you have any other questions from me please feel free to contact me at any time. This was a amazing experience and I look forward to continuing my journey in Tanzania.

Best Regards,
Christina Cabbage,(720-273-3452)
325 29th Street,
Boulder,CO 80305
USA

Eileen Watson

Thank you for a great trip and adventure of a lifetime. Our contact person Beth was very helpful. She met us at the Holiday Inn on Sept 15 to take us to our host family. During this time she was available when we wanted to speak to her. She took us to Grace Orphanage to meet everyone on our first day and was back several times to meet people who came as well with us. She arranged for our Safari, a ride to Nairobi. She has been enormous help to us. This has been an experience of Lifetime.

Irene Tse & Wayne Hu

My husband and I went to Kenya for 2 weeks and had one of the best times of our lives. We volunteered at the By Grace Orphans Center for about 10 days and spent 4 days in Masai Mara. It was a life changing and humbling experience for me to work with the orphans because I realized how much we take things for granted in the US. It was heartbreaking to see how many of them lost their parents through HIV. Although currently they may not much, they are very intelligent and motivated to learn and have dreams and aspirations of becoming pilots, doctors and engineers. We love the kids we worked with. I taught math and accounting, cooked and went around the neighborhood fetching water with the kids, since the orphanage itself does not have water supply. We also played games with them.

It was our first time to Kenya and I had some concerns with safety before we went. But we never felt unsafe there since our host family, the students we worked with, or the other teachers always accompanied us wherever we went. Kenyans are really friendly and they always took time out to talk with us. Living with the host family really made a difference in our experience in Kenya by allowing us to understand their way of life, their culture, history, economy, views about the world, struggles and dreams. Our host family was really hospitable and treated us extremely well. They provided for us and went out of their way to make sure we lived comfortably. We felt like a part of the family and after a while we started calling them mom and dad. They are also interested in our culture and for one of the dinners we taught them how to make Chinese fried rice.

My husband and I both love animals. Going to Masai Mara was like a dream come true. We saw all kinds of animals: elephants, lions, giraffes, leopards, zebras, hippos, wildebeest. It was wonderful observing the animals in their natural habitat. We saw the annual wildebeest migration, and at one point we saw a leopard feasting on an antelope that it had dragged up into a tree. It was like in Animal Planet, but live! We also spent time with the Masai people understanding their culture. One of the Masai people shared his experience from a lion hunt and showed us his scar from struggling with the lion.

Kenya is a beautiful country. I wish more people would go and experience what the country has to offer. I would definitely go back again.

Joan Lynch

This Report is to let you know how worthwhile my trip to kenya has been. Thanks to Beth and Global Crossroad. The trip was well organized and executed. We arrived in Kenya on 13 Sept . Spent two nights at the Holiday Inn in Nairobi and were picked up there by Beth right on time (10 AM) on Wed Sept 15.

She throughly explained where we were going, with whom we are going to stay and a bit about the Orphanage . When were going to work we went to our host family, dropped off our bags and proceeded to the By Grace Orphanage. There Beth introduced us to Salome. The Director spent some time with us. She bought us back to our host family.

She maintained contact with us through our host family. We also saw her several times during our work at thr Orphanage. Beth arranged our Safari through Planet Safari, which was very rewarding. Because of Beth this has been a fullfilling experience and I would recommend Global Crossraod after.

Thank you

Joan Jynch