ASW 7th Graders Learn about NGO's Know-Hows 

Groups of enthusiastic 7th graders from the American School of Warsaw embarked on a remarkable journey through the vibrant world of nine Warsaw's Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). This wasn't your typical field trip; it was a day of discovery, service, and empathy. Their mission? To witness firsthand how NGOs operate and contribute their own youthful energy to worthy causes.

At Caritas, the students met with elderly Ukrainian refugees and refugee mothers. Witnessing the resilience and struggles of those displaced by war undoubtedly left a lasting impression. At ASWforUkraine, the students rolled up their sleeves and assisted with sorting donated goods, understanding the critical role of logistics in humanitarian aid. Ofiaruj.pl offered a unique experience by allowing them to help care for alpacas on a farm. Warsaw House provided a chance to express themselves creatively. Here, the students collaborated on a large poster for the upcoming Equity Parade (Parada Równości), showcasing their support for LGBTQ+ rights. Animal lovers went to a Cat Shelter (Koci Azyl), where they helped care for homeless cats, learning the importance of animal welfare. Centrum Wielokulturowe provided a valuable lesson on how to assist foreigners and refugees adapting to life in Poland. In addition to learning about the legal challenges the refugees face in Poland and EU, the students who visited Legal Intervention Association (Stowarzyszenie Inicjatyw Prawnych) prepared gift packs for refugee children, whose parents look for help from the lawyers that work there. Similarly, the students who visited Child Development Foundation, (Fundacja Rozwoju Dzieci, a partner organization of UNHCR), entertained young refugee children from a local community kindergarten, spreading joy and laughter. Finally, at the School for the Blind, in Laski, the students thoughtfully prepared a cultural program, showcasing their individuality and fostering a connection with their visually impaired peers.

This whirlwind day of learning about the work of NGOs proved to be a transformative experience for the 7th graders. They witnessed firsthand the dedication of NGO workers and the diverse needs within their own community. From sorting donated goods to entertaining refugee children, the students actively participated in making a positive difference. More than just a learning trip, this experience ignited a spark of social responsibility within them, a valuable lesson that will undoubtedly resonate throughout their lives.