Tina Williamson’s Story
Several years ago I founded Women Worldwide as a way to introduce people to a variety of ways to help women and children around the world. We connect people with other websites, volunteer vacation possibilities, and websites where one can buy goods from women in underdeveloped countries.
As I searched for volunteer vacation trips I wanted to take, it was hard to match the country, volunteer project, and timing with my schedule. So, I worked with a friend to form Give Back Kick Back Travel. We design adventure trips that include service projects or volunteer opportunities within the trip.
On one trip to Mali we planted fruit trees in a school garden. The school children tend the garden, then sell the produce at market. The funds are used for school supplies. The children were tireless workers, digging furiously in the hard red dirt, side by side with our group. One adult said that many foreigners had donated money or gifts to their village, but, we were the first "white people" to work with them. Knowing that the fruit trees will keep producing for many years is very fulfilling.
Our group was very mindful of the local culture, showing only respect and love to these children and their parents and leaders. The smiles on their faces told us everything. The stories, pictures, videos, and gifts will stay with us forever.
We are planning trips to Morocco, Cuba, a return trip to Mali, and trips to other destinations. We plan to focus on gardens and projects with sustainability. So many people to meet! So many stories to hear. Maybe you'll join us one day.