We love hearing about the experiences and memories African Impact volunteers have had whilst volunteering. Our lovely intern Zoe Parry interviewed Lotti (UK) and Tess (Oz), who volunteered with African Impact in Moshi, Tanzania. We’ve asked them a series of questions regarding their experiences at the Langoni Old People’s Home.
What has been your favourite moment at the old people’s home?
Lottie: Every week we exercise with the residents. This is always a highlight for me. We share a lot of laughter, love and respect. I always feel humbled by it. After exercising we always have a little dance with the residents. We’ve done the jive and the waltz.
Tess: Playing bingo with the residents is one of my favourite moments. I helped Mr Michael who is blind and when he won he had a huge smile on his face. Another favourite moment was when we talked about their childhood memories. But an overall favourite thing about the project is how grateful they are for you being there.
How much do you think the security wall that were fund raising for will benefit them?
Lottie: It will improve their feeling of safety. They don’t have much so what they do have they really need. They are a vulnerable group of people some of whom are blind and some have movement difficulties it will give them great peace of mind.
Tess: They have so little and hearing the stories that have happened in the past I know the security wall will be a great help. They deserve to feel safe and secure in their own homes.
How much do you think the communal area we are fundraising for will benefit them?
Lottie: At the moment there is only one place to gather and although the tree is large it doesn’t provide much shade. When we are there in the afternoon the sun is at its strongest and it can be a struggle to stay focused and unfortunately when it rains activities have to be cancelled as there is no where else we can meet. Therefore the communal area will benefit the residents significantly.
Tess: The communal area is really important. I know the resident Mr Salim said in project feedback that if there was an area in the shade that they would leave their houses more often encouraging them to socialise.
If you were speaking to someone who was thinking of donating what would you say?
Lottie: Whatever you have to give whether it be a small amount or a large amount know that your donation would be a truly worthwhile one. I don’t know anyone who would be more grateful than the residents at the Wazee for your donation.
Tess: I believe the residents at the Wazee deserve your donation. It’s difficult to put into words how much your donation would be appreciated as you have to see it to believe it. A small amount goes such a long way here in Tanzania. So I say, donate what you can.
To learn more about our Langoni Old Peoples Home prgramme read here. If you are keen to support this project, donate online or through Virgin Money Giving.