Making a Difference in Costa Rica: An Anchor QEA Volunteer Experience
Each year, Anchor QEA provides financial support for employees to spend their vacation volunteering. The Community Service Committee reviews proposals from employees stating where they want to go, what they want to do, and why they are passionate about the cause.
In 2023, the Community Service Committee selected Professional Staff Engineer Pia Tapiawala for Anchor QEA’s Volunteer Grant Program. This is her story.
Experiencing Joy: My Time Volunteering at Centro Infantil Divino Niño
While volunteering at Centro Infantil Divino Niño, a daycare center nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, my experience was a kaleidoscope of laughter, learning, and a profound sense of responsibility.
The daycare center is a haven for children ages 1 month to 12 years old and opens its doors from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., accommodating parents seeking full-day or partial care for their little ones. It isn’t just a facility for supervision; it’s a nurturing ground, providing meals, educational classes, and supplementary learning experiences beyond the children’s regular schooling.
Divided into age groups, each bustling class of 25 to 30 kids is overseen by a lead teacher crafting the day’s activities and lessons, supported by an assistant teacher handling the joyful chaos. I was fortunate to join the realm of 4-to-6-year-olds—vibrant bundles of energy and curiosity.
Despite the language barrier, my rudimentary Spanish and their limited English didn’t hinder the joy we shared. From counting numbers to identifying colors, we embarked on a playful learning journey through games like hopscotch, Simon Says, and Red Light, Green Light. Their eagerness to learn and my passion for teaching created an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and smiles.
Spending a week with these young minds was heartwarming and bittersweet. Their bright eyes, eager to absorb knowledge, left an indelible mark on my heart. A week felt like a fleeting moment, leaving me yearning for more time to make a meaningful impact.
Safety is paramount at the center, situated in an area requiring heightened security measures. Barbed wire fencing and strict sign-in protocols for visitors, staff, and children underscores their commitment to safeguarding these young souls. My arrival mandated a clean criminal record check—a testament to Costa Rica’s dedication to child protection.
Moreover, stringent laws are in place to shield the children’s privacy. Though I captured moments and memories with the kids, honoring their anonymity meant refraining from sharing their pictures on social media or the internet. But I’ll forever cherish the moments we shared and the bonds we formed.
As Christmas approached, the center transformed into a festive wonderland. The meticulous preparations, starting over two months in advance, filled the air with anticipation and joy. The decorations, a testament to the country’s vibrant culture, added a touch of warmth to our days together.
“My time at Centro Infantil Divino Niño was more than volunteering; it was a journey of love, learning, and a deep appreciation for the resilience and joy that radiate from these incredible children.”
Though my week was brief, the impact they’ve had on me will resonate for a lifetime. Perhaps one day, I’ll return for a more extended stay to continue learning from these remarkable souls. Until then, I will carry their laughter and curiosity with me, a reminder of the profound beauty in giving and receiving unconditional love.
As I bid farewell to this enchanting land, I carry back not just memories but a newfound appreciation for the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the spirit of giving that resonates deeply within me.