Rob wrote two weeks ago: “Let me introduce myself. I am Rob Hennekens (61) and live in Groningen in the Netherlands.
Since 30th May I have been a guest at Casa Hogar, the Ruach community home, for three weeks (…) In spite of the disturbed situation in Nicaragua, I’m glad I came. I’d booked my journey before the turmoil started. And fortunately the political situation did not prevent me from doing what I came for: to spend some time in the community”.
The return journey
Rob is back in Groningen now. After a 5 hour journey (twice as long as the normal route via the highway) we were able to drop Rob off in his hostel in Managua. The six road blocks between Juigalpa and Managua made it impossible to predict how long the journey would take as no one knows how much delay there will be at each of the six barriers. Fortunately we found a driver who knew backroads to avoid the road blocks, a route that required a good vehicle that could negotiate unpaved roads (75% of the journey), potholes and deep puddles. But it was a beautiful journey, with only one delay caused by a traffic jam because there were road works!
Farewell
Before Rob left we organized a farewell lunch at which we gave him a certificate to acknowledge his commitment to our work. For Rob it was a enriching experience to live in our community for a while, and so it was for our employees in the home to have contact with a foreigner, as none of them have ever been outside Nicaragua. Rob, thank you for your interest in getting to know our work from the inside, and for your help with the daily activities. We know that with you we have another ambassador who has a warm heart for what we try to do.
Volunteers
Rob’s visit of course shows that Ruach is open to receiving people who would like to live and work in our community for at least one month. Prior experience in working with intellectually disabled people is not essential, but it is important to be adaptable, curious and eager to experience the different way of living we offer in our community. Basic ability to communicate in Spanish is important. If you are interested or would like to know more, please contact Ruach directly.