Bergen Arts and Science Charter School’s Humanitarian Trip to Kenya

In a journey of compassion and impact, Bergen Arts and Science Charter School, in collaboration with Embrace Relief, embarked on a life-changing humanitarian trip to Kenya. Their mission was not just to visit a distant land but to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Through creating their group fundraising project, they raised an impressive $10,000, a testament to their commitment to creating positive change.

Fundraising for a Cause

The school’s efforts were nothing short of inspiring. Through dress-down days and selling raffle tickets within the school community, they rallied together to support their mission. The $10,000 donation wasn’t just a number; it represented hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for the communities they would touch in Kenya.

A Journey of Impact

With a group of 20 students, teachers, and parents, the Bergen Arts and Science Charter School team ventured into Kenya ready to make a difference. Their itinerary included distributing food to orphanages, assisting in decorating public school classrooms, and a particularly impactful event – the inauguration of a water well in a public school. This well would provide clean, safe drinking water, a fundamental necessity that many of us often take for granted.

Emotional Moments and Eye-Opening Experiences

The trip was filled with emotional moments that left a lasting impact on everyone involved. One such moment was shared by Nick Castaneda, Grade 12, who recounted the heart-wrenching story of a 6-month-old baby in an orphanage. The baby had been abandoned by parents who fled the hospital after birth. This poignant moment reminded everyone of the stark realities faced by many in Kenya.

Despite the challenges, the students of Bergen Arts and Science Charter School found moments of connection and joy with the children they met. They played sports, danced, painted, and bonded with the kids. Through these interactions, they learned valuable lessons about resilience, gratitude, and the true meaning of happiness.

Gratitude and Reflection

Upon their return, the students shared how the trip had changed their perspective. Julia Torok, Grade 11, expressed, “It’s an eye-opening experience. It’s very humbling and you’ll learn to cherish what you have because some of the things that we have in America such as water are luxuries that they don’t have.” Deven Ramos also reflected on the experience, “Just seeing the fact that such a necessity was barely even given to them just made me really grateful for everything my parents have given me.”

The Purpose Behind the Program

This transformative journey was made possible through the collaboration between Embrace Relief and the school’s Social Studies Teacher, Mr. Christopher Mileo. Embrace Relief’s Group Fundraising program aims to engage students with community service and provide them with a global perspective on serving communities, fulfilling their community service requirements, and creating future philanthropists.

Mr. Christopher Mileo emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “One of the biggest problems of volunteers I might think is that people don’t realize the impact they have. That’s my goal for this trip, to create the future philanthropists of the next generation.” The collaboration between Embrace Relief and Mr. Mileo was crucial for the trip’s success.

The Role of Embrace Relief

Mr. Mileo further added, “We couldn’t do this without Embrace Relief, that’s not possible. Without the help of Mr. Metin, it just doesn’t happen. Study after study shows, that if you want to create a community that is willing to donate, a community that focuses on community service, then you need to make sure that that community sees with their own eyes the difference that they can make with just small amounts of effort.”

Embrace Relief’s support went beyond financial contributions; they facilitated meaningful experiences that allowed students, teachers, and parents to witness firsthand the impact of their efforts. Through Embrace Relief’s logistical support and vision, the trip became a catalyst for understanding, gratitude, and a deeper sense of global citizenship.

Conclusion: A Transformative Journey

The humanitarian trip to Kenya was more than just a visit; it was a transformative journey of compassion, learning, and gratitude. The students, teachers, and parents of Bergen Arts and Science Charter School not only contributed financial support but also their time, energy, and empathy. They returned home with hearts full of memories, minds enriched with new perspectives, and a renewed commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

As they continue to share their experiences and insights with their school community, they hope to inspire others to join them in their mission of kindness and generosity. The trip may have ended, but its ripple effects will continue to resonate within the hearts and minds of all those who participated, reminding them of the power they hold to create a brighter, more compassionate world for all.