Although we are still in the development phase and don’t have children living here just yet, it is still and will always be, about the kids. Our workers have children and there are plenty of children who live close by that like to drop in and help out or to just be close by.
Regardless of what we are doing, if there is a curious child close by, asking questions or wanting to help, they are included. This Village is for them and it is about them.
Kevin and the St. Geroge's gang!
Kevin is the most well known of the children around here. Every volunteer that has come here has met, played with, or worked with Kevin. Six years old and not yet in school, Kevin is the youngest child of Nicolassa and Antolin. He is a joy to spend time with and already an important part of the Children’s Village.
Kevin with his buddy, Chris
This afternoon, Kevin is helping Greg with some gardening chores. This morning he helped me make smoothies. When the school groups were here, Kevin participated nearly every day while the wall was being built. He knows he is welcome, cherished and an important part of the Village.
When we have 49 children it will be much more challenging to coordinate the efforts of so many tiny hands but I know it is possible and an absolute necessity. It is so important for children to know early that they are valued on this planet and that we appreciate their presence and their help!
How did you include a child in your work or play recently?
-Heather Alicia
And sometimes you’ve got to put up with a little bit of their noise when you’re working!
I had the privilege of talking with kids and watching them ‘create a village’ this past weekend at our Project Somos tent at the Vancouver Folk Festival! The wee ones were very busy moving the houses around the table and feeling very proud of their work. The older kids were so engaged and listened and shared their own stories of volunteering and fundraising. I was so impressed with their compassion and their commitment to their causes. Giving children, and youth meaningful work enables them to shine and know that they are an incredible asset to our communities.