Today was our last day in Bangalore. After checking out from the hotel, Pastor John brought us to the plot of land where the dream home is to be built. It was quite far from the LHCH church and home. Pastor John wanted to use this land (which he owned) for the new home because Joseph wanted to reclaim the current land site of the home. Pastor John’s intention was to build a permanent home on his own land but they lacked of funds.
We headed back to LHCH headquarter near the church to discuss about our project. After the discussion, I felt that they require funding more than other forms of support. Our stand was that we cannot provide funds because 1) We are unsure of how the funds will be used and 2) We do not have the capacity to track the usage of funds after the project. Hence, we offered to donate in-kind (providing items that the home really needs).
I feel that one very important aspect of such a project is the expectations of the volunteers and organizations. Many volunteers sign up for overseas project thinking it is a cheap travel and expecting to feel almighty and high after the trip because they have helped the less fortunate. Some beneficiaries feel that they may not benefit from such an interaction, hence the least they expect from the volunteers are the funds. Even though there will never be common expectations out of the project, it made me realize that I have to try my best to understand the needs of the community so as to support them in the necessary areas and make the volunteers understand their main purpose of coming for this project.
At night we visited the home before flying off. When I saw how Jacqueline interact with the children with energy and passion, I feel really fortunate to have her as my co-leader. This trip has made us understand more about each other strengths, weaknesses and also limits.
Pastor John sent us to the airport although it was already quite late. Honestly, all my anxiety before the trip was unfounded for. I’m truly grateful for the people in LHCH, especially Diraj, Raju and Pastor John for taking the effort to make us feel at home.
This trip has made me understand a few things:
1) Kindness beget kindness.
2) Some times it is not about getting the perfect answer, it is about asking the right question.
3) If you keep an open mind and be vigilant at all times, there is nothing to fear.
Land for the Dream Home LHCH Headquarter
A homeless man Children eating raggi mudda
Boy’s room Jacqueline, Pastor John, Dhiraj, me
