22 Reasons to Volunteer

Laura Montes Start Date: Jun 8, 2017 - End Date: Oct 5, 2017
  • Honduras
  • Macuelizo, Santa Bárbara Department, Honduras
  • Azacualpa, Santa Bárbara Department, Honduras

My Travel Story

by: Laura Montes Start Date: Jun 8, 2017 - End Date: Oct 5, 2017
For those of you that have been following my journey in Honduras this year, you know that it is been filled with ups and downs. In fact, this year has been the most challenging year of my life, filled with hard times and trials. But, it has also hands down been the best year of my life, filled with growth, triumps, and most importantly love.

As it is coming to an end, I cannot fathom leaving. I know in my heart that I am simply not ready to go. In the past month or two, I have grown so much as a teacher, in my relationships here, and as a person. Despite my lack of Spanish, I have come to love so many people here, and I know that I still have so much more love to give.

For this reason, I have decided that I would like to extend my time in Honduras for another year. While I have had a positive impact this year (at least I hope so), I know that due to the growth that I have recently experienced, I could make so many positive changes given the chance to spend another year here.

Professionally, I know that I have come so far as a teacher, and really believe that I could do a great job teaching the kids here knowing that I know now. In terms of my relationships, I have formed some very strong friendships here and I would love to keep pouring into them. It has been so amazing to see the common humanity that we all share despite cultural differences and another year here would allow me to continue to forge a bond of common humanity and build a bridge of love.

Finally, and selfishly, I am not ready to leave because this region still has a hold on my heart. From the dancing, to the food, to the vibrancy, to the generosity, to the amazing people, I have fallen in love with everything and everyone here. Things that used to drive me crazy, like fitting 23 people on a 12 person bus, have become normal and even comforting. Things that used to seem daunting, like teaching 22 seven year olds who are just learning english, have been accomplished. And things that used to seem impossable, like calling this place my home, have now been done. 

In these very fast 11 months, I have come so far and I cannot wait to see how much more of an impact I could have here given the chance to stay for another year.

  • Honduras
  • Macuelizo, Santa Bárbara Department, Honduras
  • Azacualpa, Santa Bárbara Department, Honduras