TestimoniesFor me, Peru was a transformative process inside and out. Whether one goes with or without in his life, I now understand this is not a significant determinant of happiness. This trip set the spiritual framework by which I was to regain that lost sense of pure, uncomplicated harmony with my life. To choose, to give oneself to the service of others, to stand next to them in times of material difficulty; this is one of the greatest of human expressions of compassion and more than being excited to go again, I am excited to spread the spirit in Canada, This trip need a disclaimer “Warning: Solidarity May Transform You- Change at your own Risk”
- Daryl, Peru 2006
The trip began with eager anticipation, but my expectations did not include the personal challenges that I would face. I went to make difference in the lives of the less fortunate, and ended up returning home a new man. Some may wonder why people who go on these trips give their time, money, and energy to help people they don't know and may never see again- but in the end, the reward is worth a lot more than the sacrifice. What a truly life-changing experience!
- Glen, Peru/ Ecuador, 2006
The fact that this is my third year participating in a Solidarity Trip to South America shows just how fulfilling the experience can be and that once you go, you can’t really stop. I feel as if part of me belongs in South America and yet at the same time I feel that a part of South America is always with me here in Canada. I don’t think a day goes by where I don’t think of one of my trips and about the people I’ve met, the places I’ve seen and the experiences I’ve had. Somehow, it just becomes a part of you.
- Natalie, Ecuador, 2006
I went on the Solidarity Experiences Abroad trip to Ecuador in May of 2006. I had a few fears and doubts before I left, but as soon as we arrived at the airport, that all went out the door and was replaced with the excitement about this experience. During my trip, I was able to connect with so many special people and learn [about] so many different lifestyles. We experienced work in shantytowns with school children and ran an Oral Hygiene campaign in four different school settings. From working in the Infant Nutrition Center with malnourished children, to witnessing the birth of two babies, I found this experience truly rewarding. We were able to give love to so many people, and as it turned out, that seemed to be exactly what a lot of these people were looking for. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who feels as though they need to bring some kind of meaning to their life, because I think I speak for all of us when I say that you will definitely come back to Canada as a changed person.
- Natasha, Ecuador, 2006
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