The Work

TWA brings young developing minds to developing countries. Hands stretched in both directions representing the desire to teach and learn at the same time. The trips are open to any young person 18 years and over. (Those younger than 18 are welcome to come with parents or guardians.)

Each person is encouraged to bring two bags filled to the maximum weight allowable (50 lbs approx.) These bags are filled with donated goods such as clothing, medical supplies, toys, school supplies etc. Some participants have mixed their own clothing in with the donations and left everything there, returning to Canada with only the clothes on their backs. A very liberating feeling.

Upon arrival everyone settles in to the accommodations. In Haiti we were welcomed to St. Joseph's Home for Boys with singing, embraces, and a glass of water. The next day is spent visiting several sites such as hospitals, homes for the sick and dying, orphanages, nutrition centres, schools etc. After dinner we meet and each person decides where he or she wishes to work for the duration of the trip. A commitment to that place is made for the duration of the trip no matter how difficult it may seem to go there. We visit each day to give massages, bathe, clip nails, listen and talk, assist in physiotherapy sessions and anything else that is needed. At the malnutrition clinic we assist in regular diaper changes, feeding, and offering human contact. French or Kreyol speaking volunteers are free and able to volunteer as support teachers in schools. Volunteers with specific skills may apply them where they are most needed.

Nightly meetings continue throughout the trip giving everyone a chance to share stories and feelings about the day. You do not have to speak if you do not want to and the discussions are not censored or moderated. It is a chance to express unedited and fearless opinions about your experience which are respected no matter how dramatic the exchanges may become. We have had some very emotional and dynamic discussions. No one is forced to, nor expected to fit a mold of pre-set beliefs. In return the group is asked to work as a group and co-exist as a community of individuals with an open mind, humour and compassion. To travel with a single, common cause and purpose which is to serve the poor and local community and learn from them.

Our group strives to stay in solidarity with the poor. We do not travel by private vehicle but instead use the local transportation system (if there is one) or walk. In Haiti we travel by 'Tap Tap' the local means of transport which is essentially modified pick up trucks. The only times we hire vehicles are when we are traveling as a whole group and/or traveling a good distance. With this solidarity comes an element of danger which must be accepted. We work in ghettos that are often controlled by gangs. Safety can never be guaranteed but what we do guarantee is that every reasonable precaution within our mandate is taken. In Haiti we hire local guides to take us to the areas and they inform us of any potential trouble. If an area is too 'hot' on a particular day then that group can opt for an alternative location. The objective is to always work with the local community and respect their wishes.

After breakfast the day begins with a spiritual or philosophical reading given by a different person each day. Then one hand is offered by each into the circle and the working day is greeted with a simple, resounding...

"Yes!"

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