YES alumni know that cultural exchange can happen anywhere, and they find unique ways to keep sharing and learning new perspectives in their home communities. 

On Sunday, June 26, nine YES alumni in the West Bank learned about a special part of their community while sharing information about the YES program. These YES alumni volunteers visited kids at the Palestinian Red Crescent Hospital in Hebron, where they also met with the hospital’s administration. They learned about the hospital and its extensions and presented information about the YES program to the administration, doctors, and families at the hospital.

The alumni received a tour of the hospital facilities including the departments of pediatric microsurgery, general pediatric surgery, intermediary pediatric care, and outpatient clinics for children. They were shown where children came out of surgery and where others waited for upcoming operations, and they spent time with some of these young patients as well. The kids played board games with the alumni, drew and colored pictures, blew up balloons to decorate their rooms, and played together with play dough.

The children had fun that day, and their smiles made a big impact. The YES alumni started the day by witnessing crying, scared children preparing for surgery; they ended the day hearing the sounds of laughter and joining in the fun. 

These memories will stick with the YES alumni who participated. Diala Abdalkaarim reflects, “We volunteered in spreading festive cheer to children who have undergone different surgeries at the Palestinian Red Crescent Hospital in Hebron... It felt amazing to spread warmth as well as to connect with kids and their families in the hospital on a unique level. We hope that our small gesture has brought some joy to the children at the hospital."

Diala Abdalkarim (YES 2017-2018, West Bank, placed by CIEE in Ringgold, GA)