Every two years, ABCD Directors and volunteers travelled to Tanzania and spent 2-3 weeks doing volunteer work for the schools, the children, and the community. This work ranged from painting classroom walls, to repairing sewing machines to teaching English in a vocational school and games to a kindergarten class.
There was also free time for the group to explore the cultural interests in this area of the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania. Some volunteers also planned a safari experience and/or a trip to Zanzibar to follow their volunteer work.
Please contact us info-at-abcdreams-dot-ca if you would like to ask about volunteering for ABCD at some point in the future. We’d love to hear from you!
Here are some quotes from volunteers. To read a longer reflection on the experience, see Tanzania Impressions by Edwina Sutherland.
“Absolutely amazing, a very well organized trip. I feel strongly that we did make a difference in the students’ lives, e.g. whether working at their school, donating supplies. Even if it was only getting the children to laugh, smile, learn new things, tap into their curiosity….it’s a great start.” — Holly
“I had a wonderful opportunity of a lifetime. The experience was like watching a movie in slow motion, that penetrates every cell of ones brain, and takes a permanent home there. There is another world out there.” — Glennis
“Ken and I had the opportunity through this trip to meet the children we had supported, meet their families, see their homes and get a feel of what life is like for them, what they are dealing with. This was amazing, what an experience.” — Ken and Kathi
“The trip as a whole had a significant impact on me; it was without a doubt the happiest I’ve ever felt at any point in life. It was life-affirming—it confirmed what I had always thought about the wonders of humanitarian work but never had the chance to experience.” — Sarah
“The trip overall far exceeded anything I could have ever expected! From our accommodations and meals, to transport, and general well being. ABCD had everything well organized and ready even before we left Toronto. Would I go again? Without hesitation!” — David