First published in May 2017. Programs, prices and details may have changed since then. See our current programs.
One person’s good effort can inspire many more. When we serve others, we don’t only help them directly; we also encourage other people to come forward and work for the same cause. It isn’t always about how much work gets done, but about how much difference our small efforts can make. Traveling thousands of miles from home to make someone smile is a fine thing to do.
In 2017, students from Wolfert Dalton School in the Netherlands came to India and joined our street children program, working at two schools. They knew the language barrier would be a challenge, but they soon realized that love doesn’t need a language. Wolfert Dalton School aims to make its students fearless and independent, and by then it had been sending students to India for about six years.
The students taught the children basic English and math and painted the schools to make them brighter and friendlier. Two of their teachers, Robert and Sander, guided and supervised them and joined in the work themselves.
Outside the schools, they explored Delhi, visiting its monuments and temples. Walking through the streets of Old Delhi was a completely new experience, and so was riding the Metro. They tried spicy Indian food and learned a few words of Hindi, and the sultry summer heat did nothing to dampen their enthusiasm.
Before they left, Robert and Sander wrote us this letter about their experience.
Wolfert Dalton is a high school in the Netherlands with 750 students. Every year we come to Delhi with a group of about 12 volunteers. We have been doing this for almost 6 years now, and we think it is an excellent addition to our school program. We aim to combine the cultural and volunteering aspect in the journey.
This year, we have worked at 2 schools in the slum areas, teaching the children English and Maths, and supporting them with educational materials as well as with other necessary items like water coolers, fans, carpets, audio system and wall paintings.
Our students enjoyed working with the children – the exchange of affection, helping them to learn. They were surprised at how quickly they could bond with the children, and amazed at how thankful the slum kids are with the small things. Our students from the Netherlands realized that their lives are so different from that of the people here in India, and that they take things for granted. They loved painting the walls and see the classrooms improve. They created a more interactive classroom environment.
The cultural highlights were visiting old Delhi, the Lodhi Gardens, Jantar Mantar, and of course, shopping at the markets. And not to for the Akshardham Temple.
They regretted that they had to leave so soon, and we hope to come back next year,
P.S: The VOLUNTEERING INDIA Team was amazing.
Sincerely, Robert and Sander. Team Wolfert Dalton.
Read more about the group’s week in our conversation with the students and teachers. Planning a group trip of your own? See our programs.