chosen children village foundation
Rico
I have always enjoyed working with children. When I studied abroad for a semester in Madrid, I volunteered afternoons at an after-school program for special needs children. My calling to work with special needs children is rooted firmly in my personal life. My younger brother, John Dominic is autistic. While growing up with an autistic brother was at time trying, it has also been a blessing in my life. In my life I have ample opportunity to discover how rewarding working with special needs children can be, and I began my work at CCV with great anticipation.
As I began at CCV I found that my days were as full as they were rewarding. Beginning early in the morning, I completed a variety of duties all throughout the day. The broad range of the needs presented by the children filled my days with a wonderful variety. From assisting at meal times, facilitating the development of basic skills during occupational therapy, and working in the classroom; each day held its own challenges and rewards.
All trial and reward here stemmed from the intricacies of building interpersonal relationships. I believe the success of this village is rooted in the fellowship that exists between the children. It is a joyful experience to witness the ease with which the children and staff proceed in their day-to-day routine. While trying to find my own niche in this simultaneously complex and seemingly effortless family, I found the children to be remarkably welcoming. They are quick to love, bastions of innocence in a complicated world.
As time passed I began to learn more about the children, their like and dislikes, quirks, even some of their fears and hopes. As I grew more comfortable with this rapport I found my role was beginning expanding. As I grew to know them, I found that more responsibility came with my new place in this village. Beyond friendship I had to put on the hat of authority, a function I was heretofore unfamiliar with. Finding myself in the position of enforcing rules, mediating disputes, and presenting consequences for actions did not come easily. Not without it’s rewards, I found this new aspect to my relationship only served to strengthen the bond we had formed.
As my time at the village comes to an end, I find myself approaching my departure with no small amount of trepidation, and with a heavy heart. A few nights ago, I was speaking with Dave, one of the older children. During our conversation he spoke of how blessed he felt to be in this village. I could not have agreed with him more, and know that when I leave I will take with me strong bonds of friendship and fond memories of a truly blessed month at the Chosen Children Village.
-Richard Javier,
January 27, 2010
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Chosen Children Village Foundation is maintained solely through donations, sponsorships and grants and has a Board of Trustees whose members serve without compensation.