Philipp took part in the Social Day project "A day with the children of the Arche" because he grew up near the Arche in Moosach and attended the same elementary school that the children from the Arche attend in the afternoons. His aim was to give the children an enjoyable day, to help them play, learn and read and at the same time to relieve the staff. He was particularly impressed by the children's gratitude and joy, as well as their open and warm way of welcoming the guests. The importance of the Ark for disadvantaged children became clear to him and he recognized the importance of volunteering. He describes his volunteering experience with the words gratitude, joy and fun and is already looking forward to the next project. He is already registered :).
Nameof the project: A day with the children of the Ark
Date: 25.01.2024
Name: Philipp Brenner
Why did you participate in the project?
I grew up not far from the Arche in Moosach. I was also allowed to attend the same elementary school from which the children came to the Ark in the mornings. It was important to me to give the children a nice day and to help them play, learn or read a little. I also wanted to take some of the pressure off the staff and do some general housework. Sorting the many donations or setting up new goals etc. was also a support for the team, who often don't have time for such tasks.
What did you like most about it?
Seeing the gratitude and joy of the kids. How openly and warmly every single child welcomed us guests and almost didn't want to let us go. I was really touched by how honestly uncool it would be to be just a friend for a day. A promise to come back was a must here.
What did you maybe not like so much?
There was nothing
How important is volunteering to you?
So far I have been far too little active here, but after the day I really realized how necessary such support is.
What do you take away from the project?
How important the Ark is for disadvantaged children. How much abuse or support the children need. When children from Ukraine flinch when they hear a bang from a door. Be it a tent that we have put up and children remember the tents they had to live in in Africa. The children are grateful for every second that we spend with them.
3 words that best describe your volunteering experience?
Gratitude, joy, fun
Anything else you want to get off your chest?
I'm already looking forward to the next event!
