Volunteering in Mataderos meant a lot of different things for me. It meant that I had to step out of my comfort zone to teach the children English. It meant that I could practice my Spanish language skills through casual conversations with the students. Most importantly, as a volunteer there, it meant that I would have a lasting experience that impacts my life on a daily basis.
Although volunteering after school got quite exhausting, the enthusiasm from the students, the unity among fellow volunteers, and the endless support from Jon made that time extremely worthwhile and enjoyable. When I first walked into the community center, the walls were bare, the rooms were dark and cold, and we had no lesson plans to work with. When I left just one month later, volunteers had had painted a bright tree in the main room, children posted their drawings in the classrooms, and an initial lesson plan was in the works. This improvement in such a short time exemplifies the excitement and energy at the organization that draws in so many volunteers each year.
If I had not made the choice to utilize my time for the children and students at Mataderos, I would not have met so many interesting people, experienced life as the youth do, or known that such a great place existed. Despite the hardships of each individual, problems were left at the door and an environment for learning, growth, and positive development for the community was allowed.
The community center taught me that a lot of work still needs to be done in developing countries. Without the generosity of foreign volunteers, children in such environments might never have a chance to pull themselves out of poverty. I am proud to say that volunteering in that organization was the main reason why I want to pursue a job in international development.
Angela Park
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