Today is International volunteer day and a chance for us to acknowledge the wonderful support that Open Arms receives from our many volunteers from all over the world!
We couldn’t do the job that we do without the help of our volunteers not just in Malawi but in the UK, Holland, the USA and all over the world. We want to say a huge thank you!
We asked one of our Volunteers Andrea, who has just returned from her 4th visit to Open Arms why she has chosen to work with us;
"I met Neville and Rosemary Bevis, who moved to Open Arms in 2000, many years ago whilst working as a Practice Nurse – they needed travel advice. I was fascinated by the project they were about to undertake, and followed it closely through the local media. I then promised myself I would go out to Open Arms when I retired. This I did in 2007 with my daughter who had just completed university, and was about to embark on a career in fundraising. I have recently returned from Malawi after my fourth visit.
Each time it is like going home. I am always amazed at the country which has so much poverty but is so rich in its warmth and generosity to mankind.
When I left my place of work I had the most wonderful send off, but nothing compares to the singing and dancing that the house mothers provide as you leave on your final day. Pay day is another example!
These women have very little in their day to day lives but provide so much for the orphaned children that are in their charge during their time at Open Arms.
My retirement means I do very little before 9am except drink a cup of tea! However, at Open Arms I think nothing of starting at 6.30am every day of the week. It is such a pleasure to be with the babies and young children, their arms outstretched to you in anticipation as you approach to lift them out of their cots.
During my first visit I wanted to change everything! I now realise that is an impossibility! But if I can give an orphaned child my time for feeding and playing, and lots of hugs then I really can make a difference. My maternal love has no boundaries; these children are missing out on that chance because of their situation.
This is where volunteers can help extend the love and care that Matron and her staff give these children. I recommend anyone considering going to Open Arms not to hesitate – book your flight and go! I certainly will be planning my next trip soon. Andrea Ainley"
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