Ever since 2011, my life has changed forever. I never thought that one day I would be the one making a difference in this world, from out of my own country. I’ve always tried my best to help people whenever I can, but in December, 2011, I took community service to a whole new level. My dads company, Valmark, has been supporting an orphanage in Jamaica for nearly 12 years. One week each year, volunteers from Valmark and their children starting from age 10, go to Jamaica and work at the orphanage. Volunteering at an orphanage at such a young age as I was, would be an incredible and liberal experience. However, I didn’t volunteer at any orphanage; I volunteered at an orphanage for physically and mentally challenged children. Since Jamaica is such a poverty-stricken area, I think it’s important that I yearly help to make a difference at the West Haven Orphanage with my father.
Community service is exceedingly important to me because I love making a difference. That is why for the past two years I have volunteered at an orphanage in Jamaica through the organization “Mission Jamaica.” Finally, we were on our way to the orphanage. Mixed emotions filled the air as the orphanage appeared in my view. Worry and confusion went through my mind as I saw in the distance, children laughing and crying. As I walked off the bus, kids darted towards me with big smiles on their faces. I was a little fearful at first, having so many children who are suffering from diseases surround me. I soon became accustomed to the environment, and established close bonds with the innocent children. I played with the children and made them feel like there were individuals in a world that care about them. I face painted the older children, and bottle fed the younger ones. I danced with the kids, and gave them attention that they don’t very often receive. It is so sad to see how hard their lives are, being indisposed children without parents to care for them. It made me appreciate how lucky I am not only to have caring parents, but to have the life that I have. All of the things that I take for granted, they wish they had. It was the most powerful experience I’ve ever had in my life. I can not imagine life without having done this community service in Jamaica, and it has changed me forever. It has not only changed the lives of these children, but has changed mine as well. When I am in Jamaica, I do not think of my work as community service, but I think of it as a gift that I am lucky enough to give and receive.
Have YOU ever made a difference in the lives of others? If so, I'd love to hear about it!
WATCH THIS VIDEO OF MY VOLUNTEER WORK IN JAMAICA------->
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