Living and Learning: Volunteering Adventures in Lithuania - Month 3

I've now been volunteering in Lithuania for three months, and it's been an amazing experience. From the excitement of arriving in a new country to learning about its unique culture, this journey has changed me in many ways. The community here has been incredibly welcoming, and I've grown so much through our interactions. In this blog post, I'll share some highlights and challenges from my third month in Lithuania, a place that's becoming very special to me.

At the beginning of this month, my colleague Kerem and I organized an iced coffee workshop at our Youth Center to celebrate Easter. We engaged the youngsters with fun and interesting Easter-themed games, all while enjoying the wonderful weather together.

During the Easter break, I had the pleasure of reuniting with friends I met during our arrival training in Vilnius. We spent a delightful time together, welcoming the arrival of spring and exploring the vibrant city. From strolling through the historic streets to discovering hidden gems, every moment was filled with joy and laughter. Sharing our individual experiences and stories from our volunteering journeys added a special touch to our reunion, making it a memorable and enriching experience for all of us.

I also had the incredible opportunity to meet the President of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda, during an event at Širvintos High School. It was a fascinating experience to be present and listen to their engaging conversation covering a variety of topics.

Later that week, I had the opportunity to visit Kernavė with my colleagues. Kernavė is a significant archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Lithuania. It served as a medieval capital of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and today stands as a testament to Lithuania's rich history.

Exploring Kernavė was not only enjoyable but also highly insightful. We learned about the archaeological excavations that have taken place there, uncovering artifacts and remnants of ancient settlements. Walking through the picturesque landscape and visiting the mounds, we gained a deeper understanding of the historical significance of this place.

It was fascinating to immerse ourselves in Lithuanian history and to appreciate the cultural heritage preserved in Kernavė. This visit provided a unique perspective on the country's past and enriched our volunteering experience.

The following week, we organized a "TikTok Challenge" activity with the youngsters in Gelvonai. Given the popularity of TikTok among young people, it was a hit! We didn't just create videos; we also challenged ourselves with different topics to inspire new and creative content.

s I reflect on my third month of volunteering in Lithuania, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences and opportunities I've had. From cultural workshops to historical explorations and fun activities with the youth, each moment has contributed to my personal and professional growth.

Volunteering here has not only allowed me to contribute to the community but has also enriched my understanding of Lithuanian culture and history. I've formed meaningful connections and cherished memories that will stay with me forever. I look forward to the months ahead, continuing to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.