Volunteer Experiences - Wilson

I still vividly remember the first time I arrived at the Guatemalan airport, babbling in broken Spanish for a taxi to take me to the orphanage. Using a combination of exaggerated hand gestures and tidbits of the Spanish language, I somehow got the taxi driver to drive me to an address, scribbled on a piece of paper. More than ever, I sincerely regretted not paying more attention during those years of high school Spanish class.

Even though Mixco is only 20 minutes from Guatemala City, the drive to the orphanage felt like the longest journey of my life. I began to experience tremendous second doubts about my decision to volunteer at this mysterious orphanage. What was I getting myself into? Would I be safe? How were the living conditions? Would the children like me? Needless to say, the barrage of questions made me extremely nervous.

As the taxi driver pulled into the Hogar Miguel Magone driveway, my worries fizzled away as fifty boys greeted me with big happy smiles and shouts of happiness. My excitement took over as I thought of the myriad of things I would teach the Guatemalan children—the English language, current events, and American culture. Little did I know, these children would be the ones to teach me about important life lessons. In my weeks volunteering each summer, I never fully adjusted to the tiresome 5 am to 9 pm shifts, making the kids breakfasts, teaching them English, and breaking apart squabbles. Still, I loved every moment. The children show me just how important and rewarding volunteer work can be. To an observer, my volunteer duties probably seem expendable. Anyone can serve a plate of lunch or walk a child to school. However, to the child who was sexually abused by his father and opens up to me for the first time, or to the child who lost both his parents and smiles as I draw him a dinosaur, my volunteer work matters.

Through my interaction with these children, I have learned that even the smallest things count—a pat on the back or even a high-five can help foster a relationship built on compassion and trust. To those who are looking for an eye-opening experience and building new friendships, Hogar Miguel Magone is the place for you. As someone who came into this experience scared-to-death, I understand how terrifying this trip may seem. However, I can assure you, after volunteering at Hogar Miguel Magone, you will fall in love with the children there and gain memories that you will keep for the rest of your life.

Wilson L.