Reviving the soul and giving back ...
painting by Lou Cappiello
To me, traveling is therapeutic. There's an energy from visiting new places and experiencing other cultures that can't be replenished in any other way. It grounds me, quiets my brain chatter, reminds me how vast and amazing this world is, and inspires me in ways I can't even begin to describe.
Although I've only recently reached a stage in my life where traveling is feasible again, it's something that has always been near and dear to my heart. Last year, I was fortunate enough to explore two new countries with trips to Belize in the early spring and Italy in the fall. This year, I've decided to take a new approach: to not only travel for myself, but to travel with a purpose.
I am thrilled to announce that I will be joining Habitat for Humanity and heading to Cambodia in March!!
In Cambodia, over a quarter of the 15 million people live below the poverty line. Due to this, not only are housing problems a concern but so are sanitation and health problems. Habitat for Humanity volunteers contribute to communities all of the world by not only building complete homes, but also by making housing repairs, building both family and communal toilets, digging wells and installing rainwater tanks. As an added bonus, Habitat for Humanity also provides training in basic health and hygiene and construction skills. Within only a week's time you can be a part of something that forever changes a person's, a family's a community's world. How empowering is that?!?!
I am looking forward to being a part of a "bigger picture," to growing as a person and to helping this world take (at the very least) a small step in a positive direction. Life shouldn't be about the amount of money in your bank account, or the size of your home, or your designer tags. There is so much more out there than our hasty, fast-paced lives allow us to see and embrace. I need that back. I need that reality check to say, "Slow Down. This world is incredible and you're missing out on it's beauty."
I am so excited for this opportunity and I can't wait to share my adventure with you! I have set up a fundraising campaign to help offset some of the costs to participate in the program. Your support and encouragement, whether financial or just plain emotional, is greatly appreciated!!
<3
Jenelle