Spring Break

     I joined the WAVE program in spring break. On the first day, we went to a beach and cleaned up. It took about 2 hours from Willamette University to the beach by bus, so I was a little tired.  It was hard to pick up litter on the beach because it was very spacious. After we finished cleaning up, we went to Tillamook Cheese Factory. There were dairy products, such as cheese and milk. In particular, I was glad to eat delicious ice cream.

 

 

 

     The second day, we went to Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary. There were various kinds of animals, for example, pigs, horses, llamas, sheep and so on. These animals had been hurt by someone, but they were quiet around us. We divided into two groups and helped farm. My work was cutting dead leaves. It was simple work, however I really felt this was volunteering. Also, I had an enjoyable time because I could interact with animals.

 

      On the third day, we went to Community Homeless Connect which was a facility to help homeless. We prepared by setting up tables and chairs to invite them. I was surprised that there were a lot of homeless in Oregon. There are no facilities like this in Japan, therefore I was impressed. After we finished setting up, we went to a theater to watch a movie. It was very exciting.

 

     On the last day, we volunteered twice. In the morning, we went to West Salem Boys and Girls Club. We pulled weeds and carried the soil to the garden. In the afternoon, we went to MPFS Warehouse which made products. We helped to pack nuts in bags. I was tired because I repeated the work, but it was a good experience. During the WAVE program, I could become friendly with Willamette University students gradually. Moreover, I could practice speaking English when I talked to them. Indeed, this project gave me a wonderful experience.