During their exchange year in their host countries, students learned many lessons and the value of community service. Upon their return, YES alumni organized a giving back event to their community during International Youth Day (August 8th to August 11th 2012) by sharing their knowledge and giving free break-fasting meals everyday to children of Taman Baca Kawan Kami, which is located around the biggest prostitution site (Dolly) and low economy area in city of Surabaya. Many of the children are the children of the prostitutes themselves.

This event was also the continuation of the previous Book Drive held by YES alumni, in which Taman Baca Kawan Kami was the place where we donated the books. On August 8th 2012, alumni and volunteers came to teach English and American culture to children from age of three to fifteen years old. Alumni and volunteers taught them how to speak English, sing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Stars”, and geographical lesson about United States.

“Hello, my name is Degrit.” said Degrit in English in front of his friends. Degrit is one of the children who came to learn that day. Everyone was seen to be very enthusiastic to learn English together despite the fact that they were fasting. Alumni and volunteers sang and ate the break fasting meals along with the children as they ended the day.

The last day of this event finally came on August 11th 2012. The children gave their heart-touching performance for alumni and volunteers. They performed dancing, singing, and poetry. One of their poems was specially performed by five children tittled, “Terimakasih, Kakak” created for volunteers and alumni.

“You brought light that opened up our eyes for what the world truly is, and we can not thank you enough for it.” said Riki in his performance. “For everything, we said thank you.” said all of them as they closed their performance. Tears, claps and appreciations filled the air as the day about came to an end.

Alumni and volunteers then served meals for children and themselves to break the fast. Additionally, alumni and volunteers also awarded gifts to the children which contain books, notes, pencils, pens, and many other educative utensils. Taman Baca Kawan Kami was also given donation in form of merchandise and books in English, Japanese, and French to help the students learn in the future.

YES alumni reported that they have enjoyed sharing their knowledge, were touched and were very grateful to be able to give back to their community. “Merci, kak.” said Yanti, one of the children as alumni and volunteers left the building.

Photo courtesy of IYAA: YES Alumni tutoring geography