Review Volunteer Steven Tanzania Community Development
The local ABV coordinator, was amazing. He provided everything from a sense of security to company. He felt less of an authority figure and more of a friend, though at the same time I knew he had everything under control.
2- What was the most surprising thing you experienced? *
As I had been to Tanzania before, I had gotten used to most of the things in Uganda already. However, what was pretty surprising was that the taxi conductors didn't often try to swindle me out of money by listing the fare higher than it was. This happened often in Tanzania.
3- What was most difficult to experience? *
I had been in the volunteer house alone for a while, so that mostly. Volunteers come at different times during the month.
4- Any tips for future volunteers…
The weekends are boring unless you take initiative. Go out and make new friends, plan something out. There is nothing to do on the weekends unless you make them yourself, or take tours.
5- Other things volunteers should know:
People will stare at you. Some will try to do so discreetly, and others not so much. People will shout at you "foreigner." This will not be discreet, and it will not be done with the intention of being impolite. People will ask you for money and food. Whether or not you give them this, is up to your best judgement. It's a very different world to which you are accustomed, and it is because you are very different from the people there - at least physically. So keep an open mind
6- Personal Paragraph (ABV Program Testimonial):
I feel as if living a life restricted only to the borders of your native country is a very limited life. You may be content doing so, but it is because it's all you've ever known. Traveling abroad to Uganda only further cemented this belief for me. I experienced something few people experience, and I walked away more mature and wiser for it. The support provided for me within the country by a broader view was incredible, and helped me to adjust to life within Uganda. Once I had settled, I began to truly appreciate the culture and differences of somewhere many thousands of miles away from where I lived. In addition, the charity located within actually seemed to be making a considerable amount of difference, which I am greatly thankful for having had the opportunity to be a part of. I highly recommend the program. It does make a difference, both in the community and in your life.
7- How would you describe your accommodation, meals, security
Accommodation was secure and clean. There was a guard on patrol every night. The house was cleaned often. Meals were plentiful and served in rather big portions, which I didn't mind.
8- What was your favorite memory of this trip?
Spending time with the children for the whole day one Saturday. Doing nothing in particular, just talking to them and them talking to me.
9- How was the ABV USA support prior traveling?
It was thorough and comprehensive. I did not feel as if there was anything neglected in this field.
10– Are you willing to speak to other potential ABV volunteers?
If I have time, yes.