Emilie Escoffier
Volunteer in Central African Republic

“I’ve wanted to volunteer for years – and particularly in the area of girls’ literacy, something I care about deeply. When the Orange Foundation told me about the possible projects, I chose to go to Bossangoa, in the Central African Republic, to help build a school for 80 children. So I joined a team of twelve volunteers (eight women, four men) of the Paris-based NGO Coup de Pouce.

When we arrived in Bangui, and then Bossangoa, we were welcomed by members of the catholic community who make the connection between Coup de Pouce and the local Michel Parisel association. The builder and his team of three had already moved ahead with the rough work and we joined in until the classrooms were done: finishing the walls, painting, putting up the blackboards. We also built the toilets and an open area with a thatched roof, gave the finishing touches to the outside and cleared the land around the school so the children could run and play safely.

It was quite hard work, especially in the hot and rainy equatorial climate. When we finally inaugurated the school after two weeks, I can tell you it was moving! The children and their parents had been following our progress with much interest. After introducing ourselves, we answered their questions, took pictures and shook hands in sign of recognition.

Our presence and our work meant more to the local community than just raising funds. They appreciated the contribution of western volunteers and will remember us for our hard work and our solidarity. And we come away with their gratitude and that priceless feeling of having done something useful. We won’t forget their sincere thanks.”

Sébastien Monllor
Volunteer in Central African Republic 

“I had enquired for several years at the Orange Foundation about international volunteering, but it hadn’t been possible until now. When Coup de Pouce, who knew of me through the Foundation, called about this project in the Central African Republic, I immediately said yes.

Our tasks changed every day, so that we could all get our hands on everything. My dearest memory is when the parents and children welcomed us in the old school to thank us for our initiative. Earlier that afternoon, I went to buy a football; in the end I got two. After the parents thanked us, I threw the ball in the air to start a match and suddenly all the kids ran. It was fantastic, because we didn’t all speak the same language, but everybody understood and shared the joy of that match.

I’m a changed man after this human adventure, because the people in that land really don’t have much, but their generosity overwhelms you. I think I’ll go back; this kind of experience is unforgettable.”

Rocio Miranda de Larra
Volunteer in Ivory Coast

“I could never have gone to Ivory Coast without the Orange Foundation, because of the political turmoil in the country. Our project was to refurbish a home and training centre for girls. Many girls over there have to work for their families. This centre teaches them to read and write and trains them in hairdressing, sewing, computer literacy, etc. 80 girls attend the training, but when we went in August there were only about 15 left who had nowhere to go.

Some of the work was really tough, like making cement, painting, sanding the wood… We made a library so they could learn more easily. We worked all day, and in the late afternoon we relaxed a bit with the girls. We told them about our work and they spoke about the history and culture of their country. They even taught us to play the tom-tom!

It was hard going because the conditions were tough – we slept with rats, there were mosquitoes everywhere and we didn’t always eat our fill. But we got so much back – it was truly extraordinary! And an experience like that really brings people together. Next week, nine of my group of fourteen volunteers are coming to see me in Spain, so you see what I mean!”