Volunteer stories

“Working at Pax Lodge has been a surprising adventure. I never thought that I would learn so many different things during these four months. It has been an honour to meet those fantastic women and share amazing moments with them. The friends that I made here will always be in my heart!” – Priscila Azambuja, Brazil, Resident Volunteer

“I find it hard to put into words what these last three months at Pax Lodge have meant to me, and I probably won’t even know how much my life has changed because of this experience until I’m home. The only word that even seems to come close to describing this experience is “incredible.” Never have I worked so hard yet had so much fun at the same time, while learning more about myself, teamwork, and dedication, than I have in my entire life. And never have I worked with such an inspiring group of individuals with whom I had an instant connection, a bond that turned into a friendship that I know will stand the test of time – that’s the magic of Guiding, and now I know what makes this organization so special. I now have true “sisters” all over the world, who I know I can always count on no matter how much time passes, or how much distance comes between us.” – Allison Sephton, Resident Volunteer

“I feel so much more mature, independent and confident in my own abilities.  The amount of luggage I have to take home with me shows how much I have done and how many places I’ve visited.  But what can’t be seen in my luggage is what a great time I’ve had at Pax Lodge and how highly I recommend it to everyone else in WAGGGS.” – Emily Downing, United Kingdom, Resident volunteer

“Pax Lodge now is part of my life, and a big part of my heart, I left in that building lots of different moments in my life, smiles, tears, happiness, sadness, gossips, love, work, but the most important…. FRIENDSHIP.” - Karla Paola Millán Velez, Mexico, Resident volunteer

“I’ve already been at Pax Lodge for three months and two weeks. And it’s time to leave. Pax Lodge is a really amazing place. All staff who are working here is very dedicated to Pax Lodge. We were happy to work for Pax Lodge anytime. Especially, summer is the busiest time, so sometimes I was very tired after working. But when day’s done, I come back to House assistant corridor and there were always friends. And then, I forgot how much I was tired. We hang out together and had a good time. It was a good opportunity for me to come and volunteer here. I’ve met so many people from all over the world during staying at Pax Lodge. When I talk with them I can see how different they are and also how similar they are. I liked this international atmosphere. When I go back home, I’ll share my experience with another girl and recommend to come here as a volunteer.” – Gonji Bu, Korea, Resident volunteer