Volunteering does not equal vacation

This is obviously the first time I have volunteered abroad, possibly not the last, but I am thankful for the set up that IVHQ and Fadhili have provided us. During the week we are at our placements from about 9-4; sometimes you'll stay early and sometimes you'll stay late. But, during weekends you are provided with plenty of excursions. Fadhili has offered a 3-4 day safari, a city exploration, IDP weekend (including a visit to Hell's Gate), trips to Mombasa and other getaways. I feel it is an opportunity to unwind with friends following the work week that can also be emotionally draining. You'll be updated on these weekend excursions, as for now check out Gloria's post for what we did last weekend.

At Faraja, well there is a lot of work to be done. Six years ago the orphanage left it's location in the slums of Kibera (the largest in the world, 2nd is Soweto, South Africa). Ten months ago they've arrived at their current location. Approximately 2 months ago Fadhili Community started putting placements in Faraja. There is a lot of work to do in order to help them become sustainable. As we finished our third day Karen, Gloria, and myself have begun brainstorming ideas of how to help them become able to help themselves. I believe first on the list is creating a more cleanly environment. From building a fire pit that can divert smoke/fumes away from the children and house, to education on better hygiene, to building shelves/cubbies to keep their belongings off the floor. If they can cut down on hospital costs maybe those funds can be diverted elsewhere and improve their ability to produce and obtain income.

Water pump that delivers water
to the local farm. They provide
free water to Faraja

My daily routine is fetching about 200L of water. The boys chip in with fetching water when they get home as well. But they consume about 225L of water daily due to cooking, washing, and drinking. I just hope to offset the daily usage on my hauls. On the 1/4mi uphill route I have met "the neighbors", from a Sudanese businessman who sells houses in Kenya to Joyce, Dijomon, and Wilson who work on a nearby farm that will see its first selling season in about 2 month. All look for sustainability, not a handout. They are doing the best they can and some are doing very well.

Dominick cooking lunch

I also help cook breakfast and lunch, collect firewood and been all about town. Momma Morra's direct neighbors are actually a husband/wife doctor/nurse team. I have spoken with the wife and will hopefully get in touch with Public health to get ideas on how to help improve living conditions. They are not bad for the children's standards, but we hope to be able to improve the general health of their surrounding atmosphere.

Once we get settled on a project I will write. I may even set up a PayPal if you'd like to help over the next 4 weeks. I have also contacted Kiva and will hear back from this week with news of how to start a loan attempt. 

I will upload photos when there is time. I try not to take photos when citizens are around, it's considered rude. You must see the beauty of this land and those who I am talking about.