This was my third time staying in Kenya and my third time at ACEF, and for me it has become something like a vacation during the long holidays — a true retreat.
Kenya's climate is remarkably comfortable: temperatures are moderate, humidity is low, and the food prepared at ACEF is delicious. Spending time with the children refreshes my spirit completely. For me, this place has become the ultimate resort destination!
Orphanage Visits
This time, my stay at ACEF was only four days, and I focused mainly on visiting orphanages. During my previous trip, the children at the orphanages in Makima and near ACEF's Embu compound had welcomed me so warmly that I wanted to see their smiles again.
I brought toys from Japan and purchased snacks locally to bring as gifts. At the first orphanage, it happened to be a weekday and another group of visitors had arrived at the same time, so we didn't get to play as much. But when I handed out the gifts, every child received them in an orderly and grateful manner.
The children remembered me from my previous visits — they asked me to play "Alps Ichiman-jaku" (a Japanese hand-clapping game) again, which touched my heart deeply. These small moments of connection across cultures are what make volunteering at ACEF so meaningful.
I look forward to returning again and creating more memories with these wonderful children.