My trip to Uganda in July was one of the most life changing experiences in my life. Working with IVN made me realize such a bigger part to my life. The trip has forever changed me for the better. I find I am so much more grateful and appreciative for my life. I care so much more about others and their lives. I am 24 years old and have always dreamed of going to Africa to help out. I have for the last 5 years or so helped out locally and in my own community, but not much abroad.
After searching the internet for about a month, my friend and I decided IVN was what best fit what we wanted to do, which was to work with children and women. I often think now how lucky we were to find this organization. I feel so proud that I got to be apart of IVN, even if it was only for a week. James and his wife made me feel so safe and at home; I couldn't have asked for better hosts. Not only did I get to spend 2 weeks visiting different villages and communities, I also was able to see how beautiful Uganda was.
The last weekend I was there, my friend and I went to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Here we stayed right in the middle of the rain forest and went on a gorilla trek. Seeing the gorillas in their natural habitat was beyond words. We were fortunate to be able to see a 2 1/2 week old baby gorilla. Those two weeks I spent working with IVN was so amazing. I felt safe and so at home. Everyone I came across was so nice and welcoming. I love IVN‘s mission and all what they are doing. I plan to come back to Uganda next year and bring my family with me. – July 2009
Name: Alison
Age: 26
Country: UK
Volunteer job: Primary Health Care Program
I have had the most amazing four weeks working at a local Health Center. The staff at the Health Center and the local people was such the most wonderful people I have ever met. The hospitality, location and food have been incredible. Thank you so much for making my time in Uganda so special. James and Sara you are wonderful people. I will miss you all. -August 2009
Name: Ben
Age: 20
Country: UK
Volunteer job: HIV/AIDS Prevention & Counseling Program
I could write for pages and pages about everything that I have managed to do on my trip in Uganda. From the amazing safari at Murchison falls to being a Best Man at a customary introduction ceremony, to helping people living with HIV/AIDS at a local health center, but I really just want to say thank you for a truly amazing four weeks and for looking after me so well. You are amazing people and I will remember you forever.
– August 2009
Name: Calum
Age: 24
Country: UK
Volunteer Program: Pre-school Teaching Program
The two weeks spent working at the village school project was … indescribable. The first time I met James and his family I was in awe of how friendly, welcoming and considerate they all were. I immediately felt so at home with their wonderful family. I have had the most amazing experience here in Uganda. Teaching at the school was an honor and a pleasure, the children are so passionate and such a joy to be around. James and Sara you are both such inspirational people and kinder than many people I have met before - Sept 2009
Name: Grace
Age: 20
Country: UK
Volunteer Program: Pre School Teaching Program
James and Sara, two weeks has been too short. So you will definitely be seeing more of me in the near future. It would be great to stay again in your welcoming home and teach the enthusiastic children who were pleasures to teach. I think that what you do is brilliant – you are the current day mother Teresa.– Sept 2009
