Today was a great day in San Antonio! Our second day volunteering, our group definitely settled in to its routine and began to feel more comfortable in its roles throughout the facilities of the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio.
Five students spent their day away from the shelter itself at the organization’s thrift store, which operates in support of the Children’s Shelter by donating all of its profits. Activities of the day included constructing much-needed bookshelves, helping customers move purchases to their cars, and sorting and labeling items throughout the store. Most, if not all, of our MABers who worked at the thrift shop today reflected on the kindness and helpfulness of the employees there; they were very welcoming, and really helped to convey to the students the importance of the work being done there and at the shelter.
The rest of the group continued working and interacting with the awesome kids at the shelter. From the elementary schoolers to the infant, we are learning so much from these kids and are continually amazed at the spirit and attitudes they display in spite of all they’ve been through. They’ve experienced things no child should have to, and yet somehow they are still able to express great love and energy, even to tall strangers from Missouri like us. It’s been an eye-opening and rewarding experience working with the kids here, and we’re all excited to see what else we learn from them as the week goes on.
After the day ended, everyone came back from their respective locations and we cooked spaghetti! Each meal and after-dinner meeting has involved great reflection and insight into the deeper significance of our work; it’s a great way to end our day, being able to process everything and discuss any problems or questions or experiences we have with the rest of the MAB group. To add, we all continue to bond as we spend the days and nights together, especially through intense games of Mafia in the church dining room!
If you’re reading this, thanks for all your support and know we are all enjoying our time together making a difference in the lives of these awesome, inspiring kids.
Five students spent their day away from the shelter itself at the organization’s thrift store, which operates in support of the Children’s Shelter by donating all of its profits. Activities of the day included constructing much-needed bookshelves, helping customers move purchases to their cars, and sorting and labeling items throughout the store. Most, if not all, of our MABers who worked at the thrift shop today reflected on the kindness and helpfulness of the employees there; they were very welcoming, and really helped to convey to the students the importance of the work being done there and at the shelter.
The rest of the group continued working and interacting with the awesome kids at the shelter. From the elementary schoolers to the infant, we are learning so much from these kids and are continually amazed at the spirit and attitudes they display in spite of all they’ve been through. They’ve experienced things no child should have to, and yet somehow they are still able to express great love and energy, even to tall strangers from Missouri like us. It’s been an eye-opening and rewarding experience working with the kids here, and we’re all excited to see what else we learn from them as the week goes on.
After the day ended, everyone came back from their respective locations and we cooked spaghetti! Each meal and after-dinner meeting has involved great reflection and insight into the deeper significance of our work; it’s a great way to end our day, being able to process everything and discuss any problems or questions or experiences we have with the rest of the MAB group. To add, we all continue to bond as we spend the days and nights together, especially through intense games of Mafia in the church dining room!
If you’re reading this, thanks for all your support and know we are all enjoying our time together making a difference in the lives of these awesome, inspiring kids.
