Bridging Worlds: A Volunteer’s Perspective – Part Two

In this concluding part, our volunteer Clara reflects upon the importance of solidarity and trust between the FI teams and those they are working with.

Trusting In Change

‘However, through this day we’re really aware of the impact that solidarity actions can have. It gives meaning to our work, as we are often far removed from these social realities in our offices. We understand why and for whom we’re doing it, and what role everyone at Friends-International plays in this equation. I think it’s really important to look at the whole range of programs so that we can adapt our ways of working and thinking as much as possible. 

Then, one point that struck me and really touched me was the link between the teams and the families. Because they come so regularly, the communities know them and trust them. There’s a real closeness, a special, unique and sincere relationship with the beneficiaries. Some women just want to confide in us, so we take the time to sit down and talk. Others ask for help such as care, clothing or help finding a job, so we talk and try to do what’s best for them. Everything is always done in the interests of the other person, without rushing them or forcing them to do something they don’t want to do.

The children also recognize the teams, become attached to them and enjoy their presence. There’s a real sense of human contact. The teams with whom I shared this day are really caring people. A final point that really touched me was seeing the innocence of so many children in the face of life’s complicated situations and the problems their families are going through. They come to see us, laugh with us, smile at us and hold our hands. It’s really this human contact, these sincere relationships, the innocence and smiles of the children that give meaning to the actions of the Friends-International teams.

Purpose and Hope

Although it’s always difficult to face up to social realities and see the difficult conditions in which some people live, this day helped me understand the role of the teams and the purpose of Friends-International’s work. Seeing these people committed to helping and all the progress being made gives hope. The moral is that we’re all human, no matter where we live or where we come from, we have to help each other, and it’s only through this solidarity that we can build a fairer and more humane world.’

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