Cross-Cultural Solutions

10 days ago I left a place that welcomed me with open arms, an open heart, and an open spirit. Upon entry to my home in Salvador with Cross Cross Cultural Solutions I did not know what to expect. What I received was love, guidance, and one of the best experiences I have had in my 27 years of life personally and professionally. The Cross Cultural Solutions staff in Salvador was welcomed my personality, yet challenged me to think harder, and to go deeper in my observations of Bahian culture and sysytems.

As a volunteer, I knew my primary goal was to serve the community. However, CCS, they were very clear and also gentle in explaining the needs and the history of the neighborhoods we served in. As an intern studying abroad, I knew my primary goal was to learn as much about Afro-Brazilian culture and education. CCS provided a holistic experience that helped me to reach my academic goals. I was able to visit various types of schools, hear lectures from scholars, attend samba, and capoeria classes... but not just attend the classes, but I learned the history and cultural connections.

The beauty of the knowledge gained was that I talked to the entire staff about the things I was learning and just about life in general. From Maria our amzing cook, to Lulu, to the night staff of Jo and Nando, and of course our guiding lights Gracie, Vinni, and Ivan who guided us daily.

The staff were very professionally and provided the right amount of personal care for me. I consider Salvador a second home and look to visit and stay in touch often. For all those with the opportunity to serve in Salvador, please do so. It will improve your quality of life.

There are no words that describe the effect my CCS program had on me. I went during college; taking a semester and needed a program that gave me the flexibility to experience the culture on my own but who also helped me to foster a relationship with the community.
I went to Costa Rica, and worked in a day care center where I was able to help with the day to day activities as well as paint a mural with the children. The day to day work wasn't a job that seemed as if you were making an impact, but the fact is that by having me a volunteer that allowed the one staff member time to concentrate on improvements. With more assistance, such as myself she was able to cook healthier food and clean more, since she wouldn't be chasing them all over the place. (and I won't lie that running helped me keep off all the AMAZING food I was eating).
My experience totally changed my life, from my experience I fell in love with volunteering! I graduated college and then joined AmeriCorps! Thanks CCS for such an incredible experience.