Details

Ok, so I've gotten a few complaints that I haven't explained what I'll actually be doing over in Ireland. Imagine that! :) So I will just say a little bit about the program.

I will be volunteering for an organization called CASA (Caring and Sharing Association). One of their programs is respite break houses for people with disabilities. I will be living in a home with 6 other volunteers and a group leader. Every Friday a new group of seven members who come in, all with varying disabilities. Each volunteer is assigned one person to watch over. The members say in the house from Friday until Sunday, during which the whole group participates in fun activities. It will be my responsibility to look after one member each week. The program is made to help bring a social outlet to those who might not otherwise be given that opportunity. It also is designed to help focus on the people themselves, rather than their disability, which often can happen in the "real world." All of the volunteers live in the house and build their own community with each other. I was told it is much like a family. They all share household duties, including making and sharing all meals together.

I am really excited to be a part of such an amazing program. I think that while it will be extremely challenging, it will also be very rewarding. I don't actually have much experience working with people with disabilities but I'm sure that I will learn quickly, and I will have many resources to help me out!

Ok...I think that's a good start! Here is the website in case anyone is interested. :)

http://www.casabreakhouses.ie/volunteer.html

Also, I'll be leaving my cell phone with my parents, but I'll have a phone available to me over there. Here is the number, as well as the address to get a hold of me.

00353 0 1 8454841

Claire Vandecoevering
15 Ard Na Mara
Malahide, Co. Dublin, Ireland

The Preparation

Hello Everyone!

This is my new blog that I will be updating while I'm in Ireland for the next year. I thought some people might be interested in the things I will be up to over there.

I'm very excited to begin this new journey! I am leaving in exactly one month from today. There's so much to do! I hope that I get a chance to see everyone before I go! I am going to miss you guys so much, but I'm so ready to do something crazy and different. Going half-way around the world for a year counts, right? :)

Oh, please send me your info if I don't already have it. I'd love to be able to give calls and letters from time to time!

Love,
Claire