As I ended my time in Olmos, more and more people asked me to be Madrina. I was the Madrina of students at their swearing-in ceremonies, the senior recognition ceremony and of a first haircut. Yes. A first haircut. My first host family made the almost 24-hour trek from south of Lima back to their … More First Haircut
At the beginning of each school year, teachers and administrative staff carefully select students to be a part of several groups. These students are usually chosen because of their good grades and aptitude for leadership. There are health brigades, environment brigades, civil defense brigades, school police, and general classroom brigadiers. One student at the school, … More Swearing-In Season
Volunteers from Olmos, Lambayeque, Peru discuss integration into their host site.
When I arrived to site, I came at the beginning of the twice-annual celebration of the Holy Cross of Chalpon. It felt only fitting that a year and a half later I was at an all-night vigil for the same cross, like my time had in many ways come full circle. Just a few weeks before … More Up All Night
It was overcast and slightly breezy outside as Cesar navigated his rickety, old truck down the dirt road. I sat in the front passenger seat while a few other volunteers rode in the bed. We stopped at several houses along the way, hollering at children until adults came to answer our questions. “Where are the … More Rock History
Brittany McGee 