I wake up early. I live about an hour from town so that’s one less hour of sleep. I have no idea where I derive the energy but I do it. I get ready and count my shillings to make sure I have enough fare, then I get out.
Nairobi is chilly in the morning. The rush makes it more bearable in some way. An hour on the road is no joy either but the booming matatu music, especially when it’s a good classic mix, keeps me singing, humming and imagining I’m a pop (or reggae) star most of the way. I get to town around seven and start making calls to find out where the rest of the group is. The city is already crowded; I wonder where all those people are going so early. At least I don’t crawl out of bed at ungodly hours alone.
By the time we all get together, it’s around 9. There is a bundle of flour, a bag of potatoes, some meat and a jerrican of cooking oil. After deciding who carries what, we’re off to another matatu.
Unfamiliar routes are uncomfortable so the leader who knows the directions sits near the conductor to remind him of our stop and keep us assured as a plus. I set my destination on Google maps and keep checking that we’re on the right track because my trust issues are that deep.
When we get to the children’s home we are received by a group of happy children. The older ones help us to carry the food to the kitchen. The younger ones are already asking to play games. A group of children making jewelry welcome us to their table and teach us how to bead. I can tell you this, it is definitely not easy! There are noise, cheer and singing everywhere. The children are happy and seem to be having a blast. We cook the food and eat in between conversations, games, and singing. That moment, when I look around and take it all in, is why I volunteer.
Volunteer work is about giving. There is a satisfaction, a sense of peace that comes with giving and knowing you’ve become part of something that is not directly yours. Volunteer activities vary; from environmental work such as cleanup and tree planting; to humanitarian work helping those whose lives are threatened. Finding a space where you can give back and not mind waking up, spending money on fare and donations and long trips at times is important for young people.
It might get hard when you feel occupied or have work. Maybe you were just doing it to build up your CV. Maybe you want work experience more than you care about volunteering. I dare you to try it for your own good and none of those acknowledgments and certificates. Can you?
By Sarah from https://youthspacekenya.wordpress.com/
