Sometimes the best adventures come from unexpected detours! When my originally planned LiA project suddenly got canceled, I was feeling a bit lost. But a huge thank you to my fellow Laidlaw Scholar Yoyo, who shared this incredible opportunity with me. This summer, I'll be heading to Chios Island, Greece to work with Offene Arme.
Offene Arme is an amazing NGO, and currently the only one remaining on Chios that continuously provides essential Non-Food Items (NFIs) to asylum seekers and refugees.
In this summer, I aim to:
- Assist with the daily operations of Offene Arme’s Free Shop, which includes sorting donations, organizing inventory, and distributing essential items like clothing and hygiene products to those in need.
- Make video blogs to document the experience, share insights, and help with their social media operation to raise awareness about the realities and necessity of humanitarian work.
- Work closely with a diverse team of international volunteers and local coordinators, learning how to communicate and problem-solve effectively as a unit.
Expected Outcomes:
- For the Community: Helping to ensure that hundreds of asylum seekers on Chios receive the practical relief they need (like warm clothes or basic hygiene items) while feeling respected and supported during an incredibly difficult transition in their lives.
- For My Personal Growth: I expect to walk away with a lot more resilience and empathy. Coming from a Speech Therapy background, I hope to challenge and improve my non-verbal and cross-cultural communication skills. Ultimately, I hope to return from Greece as a more globally aware and compassionate leader!
Wish me and the other Laidlaw Scholars who will also be coming to Chios a smooth and reflective journey!!