| The after school program at ikhaya le themba was more than just an amazing volunteer experience, it became a life-long community of friends and family. Each day was filled with enthusiasm as I helped in the kitchen, contributed to reading and math lessons and implemented my writing skills as unique outlets for self-expression. The kids and staff were so wonderful and grateful for my dedicated time. (Ashley, America, 2010)
We volunteered with iKhaya for a month. The first few days were a bit overwhelming but the program is very well structured and we quickly settled into the routine. There’s a mixture of lessons that support the children’s education, bible teaching and plenty of fun and games. As we got to know the children we were touched by how keen they are to learn, and especially to improve their reading and writing skills. The whole experience was extremely rewarding, and an equal balance of challenge and fun. One month didn’t feel like long enough, we would have liked to stay longer! (Nick and Claire, UK, 2011)
I have been at iKhaya for 9 months now. Working as a volunteer does not always mean you have to do something big: Whether it´s preparing and distributing snacks for the kids, reading for and with them, putting a plaster on someone’s wound, making puzzles and crafts together, playing games or just giving a child a hug and some extra attention – it´s those little things that are needed and make a difference… But you can also share your passion, come up with your own ideas and add something to the program: At the moment I´m teaching drums to the centre-kids and doing a book-project with our good English readers. With some of the older kids I´m dancing: They teach me and I teach them - it´s so much fun! (Julia, Germany, 2011)
I have been a volunteer at Ikhaya le Themba for five months For most people, including myself, choosing to become a volunteer isn’t a completely selfless act, it’s about you too: you want to see new places, meet new people, experience new things; and that’s great! The staff gave me an opportunity to make a geography program for these kids, since they do not get this subject in school very often. Together, we travelled through the different continents by making and using maps, perform our own volcano eruption, making a Chinese dragon and we danced on world music. I loved being able to put the things I am passionate about in the program, so in that sense Ikhaya provided me with an enormous teaching experience. Obviously, teaching and being in Ikhaya is not always full of happiness. Through my volunteer experience I have met kids who face great challenges but are inspired to better their lives.(Alma, Holland, 2011)
I enjoy working at Ikhaya le Themba very much. From Monday to Friday the children are offered a varied program. The children like the program, but they also enjoy their time at Ikhaya as it gives them an opportunity to get love and attention from the staff. The team works well together and everyone is really friendly. The children are all very cute and I really like working with them. For most of the kids, Ikhaya is a safe home away from the difficulties they experience with their families. (Stefanie, Germany, 2011) |
