I’ve always believed that travel is more than just sightseeing — it’s about connecting with people, giving back, and leaving a positive impact wherever you go. That’s what brought me to Turkey, where I had the chance to volunteer in the Turkey capital Ankara and the more tranquil, beautiful city of Kayseri. What I didn’t expect was how much these experiences would shape me and teach me about kindness, community, and resilience.
Painting School walls in Ankara
One of the first projects I joined was on the walls of a local school in Ankara. Together with local volunteers we transformed grey walls into something vibrant and hopeful. Every brushstroke felt like a conversation with the city, a small way to give life and colour to spaces that people use every day. And in return, I found myself learning about Turkish culture — the patterns, symbols, and stories we painted reflected the heart of the community. It was amazing how something as simple as paint could bring so many smiles.
Gathering Tomatoes for the Needy in Ankara
Ankara is a city surrounded by beautiful landscapes and farming communities. Here, I had the chance to work with local farmers, helping them gather tomatoes that would later be distributed to poor families. I spent my days under the sun, learning about traditional farming methods and the importance of sustainable agriculture in Turkey. It wasn’t easy work, but it felt good to know that what I was doing would help feed families who needed it the most.
Playing with Children
After leaving Ankara, I traveled to Kayseri,one of the most heartwarming parts of my journey was spending time with children at a local boy school. I didn’t speak much Turkish, but it didn’t matter. Laughter is universal, and so are games. We played soccer, drew pictures, and told stories (even if mine were a bit lost in translation). The children’s joy was contagious, and their resilience inspiring. Knowing that my time — even just a few hours — could bring them happiness and confidence was deeply rewarding.
Environmental Cleanup
Kayseri’s natural beauty is breathtaking — but, like many places, it’s threatened by litter. I joined a group of local volunteers in gathering trash from parks and natural areas. As we worked, locals passing by would often stop to thank us or even join in. It reminded me that small actions can inspire bigger change. By the end of the day, we could see the tangible difference we made, and it felt empowering to contribute to preserving such a beautiful place.
A Journey of Connection
Volunteering in Turkey wasn’t just about helping others; it was about building connections — with the people I met, the communities I worked in, and the land itself. Whether I was painting a wall, playing with children, gathering crops, or picking up trash, I realized that every small act of kindness has the power to make the world a little better. And I left Turkey with a heart full of gratitude and countless memories I’ll carry with me forever.
If you’re thinking of volunteering abroad, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s not just about what you give; it’s about what you gain in return — friendships, perspective, and the knowledge that you’ve left a piece of yourself in a place that now feels like home.
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