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(World Peace International) |
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July/August 2006 IHSM - Tanzania, E. Africa 
On July 27, 2006, 11 high school students from the towns of Hingham, Norwell, Scituate and Sharon, MA, as well as Monpellier, Vermont, departed Boston for a 15-day IHSM "safari" in Tanzania, E. Africa. While in Tanzania, our volunteers enthusiastically took on various projects. At Rmwambazi Hospital, they tore down a ceiling and painted the exterior trim of a patient ward in order to prepare for the installation of a water harvesting system. At Nyakaiga Hospital, they delivered desperately needed medical and dental supplies, tore down and installed a new ceiling in a patient ward, painted from top to bottom the surgical unit, and began the foundation for a new kitchen at the Hospital. Out in the community of Chabalisa and surrounding areas, they distributed 200lb bags of maize to many poor and hungry families, and a very special and touching gift that our volunteers gave was that of a secondary education to twin boys, Rogers and Coleman, whose father died and mother abandoned them. Our volunteers also visited a local three-room secondary school that educates children in Forms 1 and 2 (ninth and tenth grade). We were welcomed by the students in song, as they formed a line (in true military style) and sang their school anthem. We then visted the three classrooms where 80+ students fill each room. Our mission was concluded after a visit to Kuleana, a center for street children in the city of Mwanza, Tanzania, where our volunteers toured the center, heard testimony from some of the children, and even purchased small bracelets, handmade by the children. We hope you will please take a moment and click on the image below to view pictures from this amazing "safari." (Please allow a few minutes for the file to load)  |
| Reflections: | |
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Ricky Tantillo
If it wasn't for this trip, I would have never experienced first hand the ways in which these people live. It reminded me of watching the commercials on tv where you see impoverished families that you would love to help, but it seems out of reach. Mir Pace gave me the opportunity to actually go and make a difference and I cannot thank you enough for that. This trip also showed me a new culture that I believed to be non-existent. I was amazed by the care-free and happy lives these people lived despite the horrible surroundings and challenges which they face. In addition, it was amazing how relaxed these people were although it made it difficult at times for us to accomplish work. Although everything will always remain clear in my mind, the most memorable experience I have taken home was when Chris and I were lugging the 200 pound bags of maize. It was so touching to see how grateful these families were when they received the food. The fact that these people were on top of the world after receiving something we take for granted every day was just unbelievable. Also, sending the twins to school was an incredible feeling. Knowing that the fundraising we worked for has actually made a difference and is able to put kids through school is remarkable. I feel like a completely different person now resulting from this trip. It has opened my eyes to something that I have never known before, and has made me appreciative for all that I have. I have taken back with me so many memories and unbelievable experiences that will stick with me forever. |