The most meaningful experiences are the ones filled with laughter, connection, and shared purpose. Volunteering isn’t just about giving back, it’s about learning, bonding, and creating moments that stay with you long after the day ends. This article captures one such day, where fun met impact, and every smile told a story.
Rainy mornings, especially on a Saturday, usually tempt you to stay curled up in bed, snoozing your alarms and sneaking in some extra hours of sleep. But this Saturday was different. For me, the excitement of returning to the Cara Girls Rescue Centre was enough to pull me right out of my bed, even on a chilly morning. And this time, I was not going alone: I was heading there with my fellow volunteers from the Community Outreach Program (COP). Honestly, missing any COP event would have been pure FOMO ( fear of missing out). These experiences are always packed with fun, new faces, and the chance to mentor and connect. So despite the cold, I couldn’t wait to go and #BeMore.
Cara Girls Rescue Centre, a part of Cara Projects, is a safe haven for girls facing various challenges in their communities. We left Strathmore grounds shortly after 9 a.m., and in about an hour, we were in Ngong. The bumpy roads gave us a good laugh (a little adventure we hadn’t accounted for), but as the saying goes—nothing can stop reggae!
When we arrived, we were welcomed with kind smiles that warmed our hearts, from both the girls and the staff who care for them like family. After a quick introduction session to break the ice and get everyone settled, we jumped right into the day’s activities, and what unfolded next was nothing short of amazing.
The atmosphere quickly filled with joy, laughter, and a genuine sense of connection. Watching the volunteers engage and interact with the girls, and even their children, was heartwarming. There was mentorship happening through conversation, encouragement and simply being present. And the kids? Absolute bundles of joy and energy! Playing with them, hearing their infectious laughter, and chasing them around brought out the joy in all of us. It was impossible not to smile. Some of us even got to wear a new hat for the day as hairdressers! Braiding the girls’ hair turned into a mini salon experience filled with chatter and laughter, reminding us how simple acts can create beautiful memories.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a COP event without a hearty meal. We cooked together, shared stories around the kitchen, and when it was finally time to eat, it felt like one big family dinner. There was a true sense of celebration in the air.
Every volunteer brought a unique spark to the table, and being in that space felt like soaking in a little bit of everyone’s wisdom.
Time flies when you’re having fun, and that day, it really flew. Saying goodbye was the hardest part—how do you walk away from people you’ve only just met but already feel connected to? Before we left, the girls surprised us with a traditional dance performance, practiced and perfected just for us. It was their beautiful, heartfelt way of saying thank you—and honestly, it was everything.
Going back to Cara was, without a doubt, one of my best experiences this year. I left with a full heart, new friendships, and memories I’ll treasure for a long time.
Article Written by Nicole Githui, COP Volunteer
