The patients at Caasah are in need of a lot of love and affection. The most rewarding part of my work was seeing growth and positive changes in the patients, knowing that I helped bringing a little sunshine to their difficult lives. This placement requires a lot of initiative on the volunteers part - don't be afraid to take initiative in bringing your own skills and talent to Caasah.

I developed with the kids activities of arts & crafts, painting, puzzles, etc. I played with toddlers and babies and I made shoulder/ hand/ foot massage and yoga with the adults. working with the adults was especially meaningful cause they loved doing yoga and painting and they enjoyed hand/ shoulder massage as well.

My experience at Caasah placement had a positive impact in my life. I suggest future volunteers to try to engage the adults as well as the children -they need just as much attention and affection as the children even though it takes little longer for them to warm up to you.

Most of all, both the children and the adults need to be loved - come with an open heart and show them - children and adults - that you really care about them. That is the greatest gift you can give them.

Erin Wilson

January, 2007