Robin's Nest Mission Trip

Hi, my name is Clara Mews. I am a Junior at Simpson College studying elementary education. I had the privilege to travel to Robin's Nest, a Children's Home in Jamaica, in the summer of 2023; I have felt the pull in my heart to return to the amazing kids, employees, and directors there. I was impacted greatly by their education system, and as my future goal is to become a teacher, I have recently developed a new goal: to teach internationally. The children's home has a preschool, and the town constantly needs educators. I know that because of school, I will not be able to return for an internship or long-term until I have graduated in 2025, but I know I need to get back there, even if it is for a week at a time before then.

This is important to me because I learned immensely from the culture and the people while there for just one short week. I know if I had the opportunity to visit long-term, I would be able to become a more understanding, well-rounded teacher and human overall. I was left with the feeling that my work there was not finished, and let me clarify: I am not there working to "fix" anything. I am there helping with day-to-day needs, learning, homework, and working on learning their culture.

I left feeling a direct pull to the education system in Jamaica and the employees at home. I wish to be there to learn from them and help make their days easier. They are some of the most kind-hearted and loving individuals I have ever met. It is also important to me that the children in the home can keep their love for school and learning. Their smiles and laughter are something that I frequently look back on and crave more of.

I am requesting funding assistance because I am a college student, and travel is expensive. I would use funds for air care, meals, and donations for the employees and children at the home. Donations change depending on what is in high demand, but frequently, they include diapers, wipes, pens, pencils, backpacks, work boots, scrubs, and many other items.