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Jenny's Moldovan Story
My 'Moldova Story' began in 2007 when I decided to 'give something 
back', do something 'worthwhile' and go volunteer somewhere! I saw an ad in the paper but it took an email from another previous volunteer to convince me (Thank you, thank you Mary O'D for the most important email I ever received!!!). My first trip was brilliant throughout, but it was really in the second week that I fully found my feet and the orphanage felt like home. I cannot explain how amazing those girls are. It is possibly the most frustrating thing ever that when I come home, I just haven't got the words to express to people how fantastic each of the girls are and how important all their stories are.
I certainly found something 'worthwhile' to do with Outreach Moldova and although I may have also 'given something back', I got so much more in return. I know it's a cliché, but it couldn't be more true. It is the most uplifting experience ever. The orphanage is a happy place, the girls make you feel so welcome and you will not want to leave!!
The girls are a huge part of my life now. I think about them all the time, like today I was sitting in a lecture and I thought "It’s time for 'la mincare' over in the orphanage!!" and I just wanted to be there NOW!
Aside from the girls in the orphanage, you can expect to work with some of the best and nicest people I have ever met. From the moment you arrive, you are made feel so welcome and safe by everyone. Volunteer managers Liz and Mercy are total legends and great fun - they have been friends, teachers, advisors and listeners to me since I first met them in 2007. They don't come much better than those two ladies! I have made some great friends in fellow volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life, and in the translators who will work with you everyday. And of course Suzie... such a fantastic person, I cannot even attempt to grasp how much she has achieved and how tirelessly she works for the girls - I could sit and listen to her talk for hours!
That’s enough from me! If you are considering volunteering, then consider no more - just fill in that application!! It will be the best thing you'll ever do.
Kisses to the copii, see you all soon (I’m hoping to get back out in June for my fourth trip).
Jenny x
