This past week I had the opportunity to travel to Honduras with the organization, Students Helping Honduras. The trip I took was like no other I had ever been on. I wasn't staying at a resort where I could I waste my day away tanning, or swimming in the pool. I was helping to create a better future for those in need. And with the help of 12 other students from universities across America, I was able to do just that.
Students Helping Honduras is a growing philanthropic organization that helps improve not only education in that country, but the future of those who live there. The goal is to create over 1,000 schools, but the organization has already done so much more. Not only have they built schools, they have also developed children's homes, made better sewage systems and created scholarships that ensure that these children will continue their education.
Many people only see the negative side of this country, like it's growing gang epidemic and the 66.2 percent of the country who live in poverty, but from this trip I was able to see all the amazing things Honduras has to offer. The country is so rich in culture, and has a deep understanding of keeping tradition. The people want to make their country better, so their determination is unbelievable, and even though they have so little, they are willing to share so much.
While on my trip, I was able to visit some of the homes in the village I stayed in. Every home was so welcoming and willing to share whatever it was they had to offer. Whether it was the traditional food of baleadas and palatines, or a wonderful variety of fruits and snacks, they always wanted me to be full and happy, even it meant sacrificing something for themselves.
The children I met carried that same mentality. They were beyond thankful and happy to see our group working on the schools. With every break we had, they would always come running up to us with smiles, wanting to talk and play. Being with the children, and seeing how appreciative they were, was truly an eye-opening experience.
This trip made me realize that we take so many little things for granted, and that it is important to be appreciative of what is given to us. The little things like warm showers, clean water and a filling meal are just some of the many things I learned to be thankful for. But the most important thing I learned was how far a little help can go. We have the opportunity to get an amazing education and use that to have a better our future, so why not help others do the same?
By helping the children of Honduras get a basic education we are starting a life for them away from gang life and unemployment. While volunteering with Students Helping Honduras, I was able to see the difference I was making, and that is something that will stick with me forever.
