As I sit on the plane ride home from Costa Rica, concluding Camp Aftermath’s Orientation Trip, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming feeling of gratitude.
I am most grateful to the 15 volunteers who accompanied me on this journey. Above and beyond the economic cost they took on, they gave me the only irreplaceable asset in this world, their time. Time away from their jobs, loved ones and friends, which they could have spent as they wished. Instead, they followed me and spent 11 jam-packed days helping finalize the two-week itinerary for future Camp Aftermath participants.
I am also incredibly indebted to our mental health expert and Advisory Committee member, Dr. John Whelan, who accompanied us on this trip and provided us with critical insight in how to provide the most optimal experience for participants seeking long-term management of PTSD through active philanthropy.
Aftermath volunteers and Dr. Whelan in La Carpio during the Orientation Trip 2018
A special thanks to Gail Nystrom, founder of the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation and Aftermath Advisory Committee member, who graciously guided us on this adventure and provided us with the platform to give to the Costa Rican people in need of help.
Dr. Richard Nahas, another Advisory Committee member, went above and beyond in coordinating and giving access to Camp Aftermath volunteers to his beautiful property in Costa Rica which included a visit to his Seekers Falls.
Lastly, I am grateful for the opportunity to take part in acts of incredible charity. From improving living conditions of people living La Carpio to working with the children of Golfito, it was truly a life-altering experience shared by my Aftermath family.
Aftermath volunteer Sonya Haskell reading with a child in Golfito at the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation’s after school project.
Future participants should rest assured that their experience at Camp Aftermath will also be filled with a sense of gratefulness and purpose. They will have an immense impact on people’s lives, and heal themselves, by responding to human need with human care.
–Farid
