This morning we were formally introduced to the entire El Hogar staff and students. And treated to not only the opportunity to witness the morning routine, which involves an inspirational speech (to the children as well as to the volunteers), but also to a personal welcome from Claudia. During this welcome, we learned more about the school, the history, and certain children`s personal stories in particular. Despite the past tragedy in these childrens lives, we were all awestruck by the ability of these children to heal and to smile in the supportive environment of El Hogar.Tim and the boy he sponsors at El Hogar, Jason.
We then visited the classrooms and got to observe the learning environment – at each level, there was always the atmosphere of well-behaved students eager to learn, despite what on the surface might seem to be subpar classroom physical conditions.
After lunch, we began our first real session of physical work. For over three hours, the seven of us worked together to haul lumber used to support the concrete construction, taking it from inside the building to the outside, to be used again. Despite the humidity from the rains, and the weight of the wood, the exercise and team “sport” of it was thoroughly enjoyed.
We then visited the classrooms and got to observe the learning environment – at each level, there was always the atmosphere of well-behaved students eager to learn, despite what on the surface might seem to be subpar classroom physical conditions.
After lunch, we began our first real session of physical work. For over three hours, the seven of us worked together to haul lumber used to support the concrete construction, taking it from inside the building to the outside, to be used again. Despite the humidity from the rains, and the weight of the wood, the exercise and team “sport” of it was thoroughly enjoyed.
Photo to left; Nicole, Sherri, Dave and Tim move wood for the new dorm at El Hogar.
Personally, the highlight of my day was to (re) introduce myself that morning to the child I sponsor – Yeison Flores, a nine year old student here in the 2nd grade. When I told him that I was his “padrino” (literally “godfather”), his eyes – and my heart – lit up. I got to spend time with him again that night throwing a football, and after hugging him and saying goodnight, I was able to put a tangible face on the impact we can have here personally. Simply spending time with children that so badly need to know that they are cared for is one the most important roles we can play here – and what motivates us all to spend as much time with as many kids as possible. It was an amazing reminder of what a big difference a “little” gesture can make, and all the others have had similar experiences. We slept well, not just from the labor, but for seeing the joy on these kids faces.
Tim Lyons
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