South Africa
I never expected a two-week trip to South Africa to change me so deeply.
On Thanksgiving , I traveled to Cape Town, South Africa for two weeks with Camping 4 Africa, an organization that has been putting together day and overnight camps for underprivileged kids since 2002. The group I was part of was the first to travel since COVID halted trips in 2020, and it felt incredibly special that it was everyone’s first time in South Africa. What made it even more meaningful was that five of the team members were my own family.
AAbby, the founder of C4A, was so sweet and intentional in making sure we got to experience the beauty of her home country while serving. We spent our days at schools playing games with the kids, teaching them the message of hope, and dancing with them (my favorite part). In between camps we played tourist exploring the country. Most mornings we loaded into the vans without knowing what the day ahead of us would look like, but it allowed us to enjoy the surprises and take n every moment for what it was. I’m so grateful I got to capture both the beauty of South Africa and the realities that so many face daily. I think the whole team could agree that we traveled to bless these kids but they gave back so much more than I could have expected. Not only the kids, but also the South African team we served alongside. Visiting some of the places they live or grew up in was truly eye opening.I t broke my heart to know that the friends I had made have had such painful pasts, yet God has brought them joy and a purpose through serving with C4A.
I didn’t expect leaving to be so difficult. I’m usually quick to get back to my routines and the comfort of my own space, but gosh these people and these kids stole my heart. I was in tears as we said our goodbyes but I’m so thankful for the friends and experiences I gained. I have kept in touch with some of them and pray I get to go back in the future.
If you would like to learn more about Camping 4 Africa here is their website and a place to donate. ALL donations go towards the kids because the organization is completely volunteer ran!
The Sweetest smiles!
