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Volunteering in a children home in Jimbaran for 12 weeks
Before her studies Theresa wanted to add her support to a social project abroad. She eventually decided that this project would be Ibu Ine's children home. And, it was "the best decision ever." Learn more about Theresa's daily tasks at the children's home and time in Bali.
My first days in Bali
The first days in Bali were really strange for me, because everything was new and unfamiliar. I have to get used to the traffic jams in the beginning. Moreover the lifestyle of the Balinese people is totally different than that of the Germans. They have a simple life, but they are happy with what they have and they are always friendly. The operation of some locals is slightly negligent but you get used to it.
One day after my arrival I got an introduction by the organization and visited the orphanage for the first time. I was welcomed warmly by the ten children, the four other volunteers and the orphanage mother Ibu Ine. Two of the volunteers have been there a bit longer, so I was glad that they were able to show me everything.
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My daily tasks as a care volunteer in the children home
We were working in two shifts:
- the morning shift lasts from 7am to 1pm
- and the afternoon shift from 1pm to 7pm.
Our tasks included:
- Bringing the kids to school and picking them up,
- taking care of the three little ones,
- bathing and feeding them,
- playing and learning,
- going to church
- and to the beach with them once a week,
- bringing two of the boys to soccer training,
- two times a week German class with the older ones,
- two times a week English class in a preschool,
- doing the laundry,
- the dishes
- and cleaning the floor.
It took some time until everything worked, but after a few weeks it was much better. All of the children were so sweet and loving and I had grown so fond of them. It was fascinating to see how they had its own individual character and how each of them has a different way of dealing with things. I’m so glad that they have Ibu Ine as their mother. She is such a strong and helpful person. She loves children so much and I realized how deep the relationship is between them. I already miss them and I wish them only the best for the future!
What to do in your free time
In my free time and on weekends, I had time to make trips with other volunteers and explore Bali. We even had time to travel to the neighboring Gili islands. I learned a lot about the culture and made some good friends. Furthermore I totally fell in love with the Balinese food! During my time in Bali I learned so much. Especially what it means to take responsibility, to be happy with the little things in life and to take life not too seriously. I can recommend it to anyone to make such an experience.
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