Today was our final full day serving alongside the incredible people of Ditshego, a beautiful way to bring our week to a close.
We began the morning surrounded by hugs and smiles from the children who have become such a special part of our time here. The Ditshego students led us in devotion, sharing their faith through worship and prayer. It was an incredibly moving experience and a reminder that while we came here hoping to serve and encourage others, we received so much more in return.
Throughout the day, our team continued serving in different ways, each meeting a need within the Mooiplaas community as part of Ditshego’s programming. Some of the team put the finishing touches on the Sick Bay walls, transforming the space into a brighter, more welcoming environment for the children who receive care there. What began as sketches on the walls became colorful reminders of the love and care poured into this space.
Other teammates spent time with the preschool students and staff. The team with the students spent hours singing, dancing, playing games and laughing. The team working with the staff shared conversations and activities focused on child development. Meanwhile, two others from our team provided training and support elsewhere. One, on anti-human trafficking, suicide prevention, and domestic abuse intake and crisis management to support the important work of the Khuluma Counseling Center, while also joining the counselors, social auxiliary workers, and victim advocates in a march against gender-based violence. Another teammate provided grief support to volunteers of Ditshego’s sewing project, creating space for conversation, encouragement, and care for those who give so much of themselves to others.
We served lunch at a local home for the elderly where a team member, who is a pastor, led in the sharing of communion. What a wonderful opportunity to serve through simple acts of care, fellowship, and faith.
We spent the later afternoon celebrating some of the people whose dedication to the Garden and the Sewing Project helps make Ditshego’s work possible. After a week of learning how these volunteers serve others, it was especially meaningful to show them love and appreciation in return with dignity packs and some pampering.
Tonight, we gathered for our final evening devotional and reflected on a question that feels especially meaningful after everything we have experienced this week: Are our hearts as full as our homes?
At home, many of us are surrounded by comforts, conveniences, and possessions that we rarely stop to consider. Here, we spent time with people who have far fewer resources, yet welcomed us with an abundance of joy, love, faith, and generosity. It has challenged us to think differently about what it truly means to have enough. About the things we fill our lives with, the things we sometimes take for granted, and how we can make room for what matters most.
We came to South Africa hoping to make a difference, but we leave Ditshego and the Mooiplaas community knowing that the people here have made a lasting impact on us. Our suitcases may return home with a few tasty treats from SuperSpar and some beautiful handmade items from Ditshego’s Sewing Project volunteers, but our hearts will carry so much more.
