AGAPE:

The experience of working with children in Jombor was joyful and meaningful for those participating in their first social service activity. They had prepared a series of events, including games and art projects, which initially started as a school assignment but turned into unforgettable moments.

Choosing a location for the social service was a challenge, and they decided on the Realino Learning Community in Jombor. They discussed which games and arts the children would enjoy and how to interact with them before the activity.

On the day of the event, September 26, 2025, the volunteers initially felt nervous. However, as they introduced themselves and created a friendly atmosphere, they began to communicate effectively with the kids. The activities aimed to foster teamwork, creativity, and a sense of closeness with the children. They played simple games like ball relay, animal guessing, and attention clapping, which brought joy and excitement. Creative activities included coloring fans for kindergarteners, painting gypsum for elementary school students, and decorating clay pots and planting seeds for older kids. Some volunteers taught basic concepts, such as colors, animals, and foreign vocabulary, while capturing memories with photos. The children’s enthusiasm made this experience enjoyable for everyone.

The most memorable moments came from direct interactions with the kids, who showed enthusiasm and curiosity despite the afternoon timing. Some volunteers faced challenges with very active children, providing valuable lessons in patience and attentive communication. Simple moments, like children proudly showing off their artwork or expressing that they would miss the volunteers, were heartwarming. A mentor’s reflection on the importance of small acts of kindness, leaving a positive impact, resonated deeply. The volunteers learned that small gestures could bring great happiness.

Initially anxious about their ability to engage with the children, the volunteers eventually felt a sense of joy and energy as they witnessed the children’s excitement. Although they experienced some fatigue, happiness dominated the atmosphere. After the activities, they felt relieved, satisfied, and grateful for a successful event, accompanied by a sense of sadness at parting from the children they had grown close to. The brief time together left a lasting impression. Through this experience, they gained valuable life lessons about patience, empathy, and the power of simple kindness, realizing that attention and listening can convey care just as much as grand gestures. They also learned to be more open, social, and confident in new situations.

Contributors: Allyn, Bianca, Cia, Echa, Ecle, Gracia, Philia, Tata, Tia, & Viola