...and how easy it is to help the rest of the world. In only hours I was able to do simple tasks which would have cost others money, time, and effort which wasn't obtainable. It truly feels good to help someone and see the gratification in their eyes. I learned I can make a difference."

Alyssa T., Peaks Island, ME

...we undertook, whether they were tagging turtles, cleaning beaches, playing at a daycare, or monitoring mangroves. I really loved everything. I can't think of a single experience that wasn't absolutely wonderful. Living on a boat with 15 other people while undertaking projects that you know are helping to change things in the world for the better was a life-changing experience that I'll never forget."

Rachel S., Quebec, Canada

Coming to this program I was taking a step outside my comfort zone and my doubts quickly dissolved as I adjusted to the situations. From painting to helping to tag the turtles and working with children, I realized quickly that despite being in one of the prettiest places in the world there was still so much help needed within the community. I realize that I shouldn't take for granted what I have and that something so small can really mean so much."

Jessica S., Katonah, NY

I learned so much about another culture and language and about myself. Helping others and traveling somewhere new really helped center me and reminded me of what I actually enjoy in life. It put all the things I'd been focusing on, SAT's GPA and colleges into perspective. Numbers are numbers and everything now seems less overwhelming!"

Aurora C., Hartland, VT

Not only did I witness the conditions in which some people live, but we got to be immersed in the culture and really see how they live. It made me respect the hard work people do, even though the fruits of their efforts might not be visible. By helping in the communities, I experienced a striking sense of self-worth because we actually got to physically see the progress we were making."

Courtney Q., Potomac, MD

...added a new dimension to the trip that I really enjoyed. I enjoyed all of the service projects that we worked on because they allowed us to see the people of Costa Rica."

Parker L., Encino, CA

...in my life. After seeing the poverty and the poor people in the Galapagos, my view has changed. The people in Ecuador and on the islands are so thankful for everything, and I hope that I can start to be as thankful as they are. I am realizing how lucky I am to have a good family. This trip taught me a lot."

Laura R., Georgetown, SC

...made me feel like I had made a true difference. If I had not come here, I would have not likely been helping much sitting at home. But having this opportunity helped me to become more aware of issues I did not know about before, and also allowed me to realize that putting effort into a worthy cause is never done in vain."

Jacqueline S., Briarcliff Manor, NY

...and we were hoping the experience would open his eyes to life and help him mature. When he came home he was a "changed young man". He is more respectful and appreciative. He is less concerned with what his peers think. He has dreams for his future he would not have considered if not for this experience. This was the best thing we could have done! Thank you!"

Ms. Eileen M., Laguna Beach, CA

...is seemlessly able to mix amazing service work experiences with times for exploring the people and places that we visited. I loved the service projects we participated in because a lot of them involved interaction and contact with the local people which was especially important to me."

Hannah D., Rye, NY

...of Lifeworks. By doing these projects, we interacted with the local environment and went beyond what a tourist sees. It's a great experience to have!"

Richie L., Newark, DE

...really giving us an opportunity to see how many different ways we could help."

Kelly H., Hartford, CT

...for me. I feel I have matured significantly over the course of the past three weeks. When I went into this experience, I expected it to be hard and it certainly was. But I didn't expect that the hardest part would be leaving. This trip, the kids, have helped me to become a better person in so, so many ways."

Philip C., Lawrenceville, NJ

I had no clue what to expect which was a good thing. All the places that we went to were just amazing to be there. Sightseeing was awesome. Seeing the Terra Cotta Soldiers, Great Wall of China, Wall in Xi'an, Summer Palace and so much more! Being at Liming was really the most amazing thing I have done. It made me feel that being there with the kids made a difference not only for them but for me too! China Little Flower was also so cool to see. Being with the kids was fun and taking care and playing with the babies was awesome. At night our group did the forum and it has made our group think. Thank you!"

Alice D., Hampton, NH

...but I'll leave you with this: Lifeworks China is the most incredible thing I have ever done. I would recommend this program to ANYBODY who loves children and wants to explore a brand new culture in a country that only continues to grow. Here is what I promise: You will find out so much about the world."

Hannah H., Tully, NY

...my perspective, and my long term goals. This country is unbelievable, these people are incredible. Every day is another adventure, another story, another life altering expedition through slums, through countryside, through schools, villages, and homes. I'll never be the same again."

Colin J., Carmichael, CA

...I've ever had in my young life. Coming to Thailand and working with children has made me so happy and fulfilled, but it has also opened my eyes to the horrible state of the people here. I've learned so much from working with all of these teenagers and young children and have experienced so many different ways of life. This program has changed my attitude towards helping others, especially children, so drastically. I want to come back here next year so that I can do more and see all these people again. It has made such a difference to me and I want to do more. Everyone here has been so kind and so caring. I wish I could have done more during my short stay. Spending time in children's schools playing and working has made me feel so content and peaceful I wish I could stay and do it forever. So thank you for this chance to see a part of the world that is so beautiful and life changing. It has changed my life in so many amazing ways."

Carey R., Wilton, CT

...and seeing how happy they are despite their difficult living conditions taught me the importance of life and laughter. This was the best experience of my life!"

Nicole C., Baltimore, MD

They had the kids respect and also enjoyed daily activities as much as the kids. Our daughter really felt they were friends almost instantly. The dynamics of this group was extraordinary and that was great! We loved the photos and blogs. It made us parents feel more involved. Great trip-would highly recommend!!"

Linda P., Rolling Hills, CA

There was a great satisfaction in helping others less fortunate than you and adding a sparkle in their life, even if it's only for a couple of days."

Lucy C., Providence, RI

Thanks so much for teaching me about myself, life and the world around me. It is up to every individual to take responsibility for making a difference in your community. THANK YOU!!"

Taylor D., Alpharetta, GA