Global Crossroad Volunteer Sarah South India Review

My name is Sarah Muhlenberg and I decided to see and experience India as well as help as much as I can I volunteered at the Mother Teresa's Orphanage as well as a little bit at CREST which is a project for the Girl Child.

At first I went to Mother Teresa's Orphanage I though I was going to cry. It was during summer so the children that were not handicapped got to go to families for the holiday. But for the ones that were severely disabled. The first day I had to wash and feed these children and no one was around to help because they were busy. But you will get used to it and things start getting easier. The orphanage need more help and you might catch yourself thinking of reasons and how to fix the place but really the sisters do know what's best for the children and what is needed is you help. You will find many other volunteers and probably make a friend or two.

Now crest is another story it has a good heart but you'll feel it is all talk sometimes. The idea behind the project is wonderful but you will find yourself being forced to do things when least expected.

The children are mostly from the slums and love meeting new people and learning about new countries, so you may enjoy it but, will give you a heads up, it is very religious and pro-life.

The coordinator J R Dwarakanath was wonderful and answered every question I asked. Don't be afraid to tell him how you feel because he loves honesty and wants to help us as much as he can. He can tell you places you should go and he will try to find the best accommodation for you. CREST isn't that wonderful to stay in since it's kind of far from everything but it still is a place to sleep. Don't be afraid to say no and learn to ask questions as well as bargain. You should prepare yourself to see some corrupt things in Bangalore and see many poor situations. But you will feel wonderful to make the children smile at the orphanage and you will leave a stronger, more patient, more aware person.

Expect to live in rough situations sometimes but realize everywhere in India there are people who have it worse. Trust J R Dwarakanath and trust yourself - you will have an experience you will never forget..