In a recent post I shared a great idea, Travel With Balls. But if balls are not your thing, how about books. When we traveled to Africa Kathy and I let our friends know, in advance, that we would be taking books to donate to children there.
International travel baggage allowances are such that we were able to collect and take 100 pounds (2 large suitcases full) to Africa. We donated half to the Leaders of Tomorrow Children’s Home in Tanzania. The children there all took turns reading to us. It is a wonderful memory.
The other books went to Zambia where we had a fine time giving books to the children of Chipate Village.
And to the Mpika Village of Hope Children’s Home.
We even had the privilege of sharing a book with this hardworking sister.
Coloring books and crayons are another thing that bring joy to children everywhere.
Book bags and school supplies are also much appreciated and easy to travel with.
We connected with this village teacher. She’s sitting on one of the suitcases, filled with supplies and books for her students.
So, if not books or balls, BOLT encourages you to think about traveling with something that you can give away. I promise you will gain much more than you give!
What are your thoughts and experiences on giving back while traveling. We’d love to hear from you, please leave us a comment.
BOLT is currently traveling in the People’s Republic of China. We have pre-loaded this post as we expect to be without connections for a while.
BOLT: Black Old Lesbians Traveling 