My Nonprofit Reviews

I didn't want to volunteer for two weeks on a ship docked in Africa. I went because my husband wanted to go. I am not a medical professional, so I was given the task of housekeeping. It was hard work, but a wonderful experience because I got to know a lot of people, some from European countries, others from African countries. I took great satisfaction in realizing that though I was mopping floors and wiping down walls, that I had become an integral part of the mission. It was through that experience that two years later I was eager to return. This time, instead of doing housekeeping, I spent most of my days offship, assisting a team of volunteers. We went to the center where surgical patients stayed prior to and after surgery. We visited a hospital, children's homes and a self-sustaining village. I met a couple who were caring for many children who had become orphans because of the war. I met people during the time on the Africa Mercy that I would never have met. I walked in Freetown, Sierra Leone and Cotonou, Benin, countries, I never would have been inclined to visit. My experience with Mercy Ships opened my eyes to need in the world and the abundance that I have. Visiting those countries, caring for the people who traveled long distances to obtain medical and dental care was made all the more doable for me because of the staff and the organization itself. Mercy Ships provided a great deal of information ahead of time so there were no surprises. Also, there was always someone to meet us at the airports and assist us in getting to and from the ship. My days were organized with a mix of scheduled times and free times. I had the option to participate in additional activities off the ship. The meals were well balanced and tasty and the ship was clean.

More Feedback