By Pauline Dagaas
Sophomore Marissa Clary travelled to Haiti over the summer where she helped teach Vacation Bible School.
Photo by: Kelsey Leonard.
Summer is a time to relax, and in some cases, a time to make a difference. Over the past summer three students from Plymouth High School traveled to various destinations, aiding many along the way, changing lives for the better. What they didn’t realize was how much of an impact their experience would have on them.
After attending her first mission trip, PHS Sophomore Marissa Clary realized her true capabilities, despite her young age. Every summer this teen participates in mission trips, last year journeying to Haiti, a country located just 750 miles southeast of Florida on the Caribbean Sea. Although Haiti’s land boasts numerous beautiful beaches and wonders, this nation has been struggling partially due to the aftermaths of the recent earthquake which hit the country earlier this year, causing extreme destruction and taking the lives of many. As Haiti is a developing nation however, much poverty presented itself even earlier on as the country dealt with struggles including constant political corruption. Clary witnessed the hardships endured by many, grateful for the life she was given. “I was shocked the first time I went to Haiti. It’s so much different than America,” she said. “We have it good compared to them.”
Clary spent her time there voluntarily teaching Vacation Bible School at an orphanage located near Jacmel, Haiti, where she stayed with a Haitian Family. Her experience, the people, motivated her. This without a doubt, factored into her decision to return annually. “I have this experience every year,” she stated. “It’s amazing to be able to help.”
Junior Jason Pickell recently underwent a life-changing encounter as well. Along with his Church Youth Group, Pickell and several others traveled to a work camp in Cincinatti, Ohio. There, they completed various tasks throughout the community. One of the most memorable moments of his volunteering experience, was working at Camp Allyn, a summer camp for mentally or physically handicapped people. Through this opportunity, he worked with younger kids with disabilities ranging from autism to cerebral palsy. “I was amazed at how happy they all were and how they didn’t let their handicap get in the way of how they lived,” he commented. Evidently, his connections with the kids not only changed those he helped, but his own self as well. From this involvement, he became truly inspired to give back and change his mindset. “My experience makes me want to help other people and change lives.” What was the best part of his experience? “The feeling I had at the end of each day knowing I had helped someones quality of life improve,” Pickell responded.
Though the afore mentioned teens traveled to destinations outside of Indiana, senior Alyssa Schafer made her difference right here in Plymouth, volunteering at the local Women’s Care Center. Planning to major in Early Childhood Education, Shaffer considered the opportunity a head start towards her future goals. “What I do at the Women’s Care Center (WCC) has prepared me for real life,” she said. As a volunteer, her assigned responsibility includes looking after the kids in the play room while parents attend a weekly class offered at the WCC. As she learned however, this experience not only supplies her an accomplishment to add to her resume and background, but also contentment and pride. After working, she admits, “I feel amazing. I know that I am appreciated and looked up to by the kids and I have so much fun that it doesn’t really feel like work.”
Clearly these three teens demonstrate the “true power of youth” and in the process, learned just how capable they truly are.