VOLUNTEERS

As part of Open Monuments Day, we had the unique opportunity to volunteer at the Nicolaas Store for one day. This event gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how local museums operate during this special cultural celebration. Our main responsibilities included stamping visitor cards as they entered and helping guide guests through the museum. Throughout the day, we met visitors from all ages and backgrounds who were curious and excited to learn about the history of the building and its exhibits. Volunteering gave us a sense of connection to the community and to the rich history preserved in the museum. We also had a chance to learn more about the Water tower, Artisa, and a small greenhouse with a rich heritage. Overall, it was a fun, educational, and meaningful experience that we’ll remember fondly!

I’ve had the incredible opportunity to volunteer and help build a syntropic garden from scratch, and it has been such a rewarding experience! The process started with planting seeds and young plants, getting my hands dirty in the soil, and feeling connected to the earth. Then watering the garden, carefully tending to the plants, and watching them grow day by day. Nature truly works its magic, and it’s amazing to see the little seeds transform into a thriving ecosystem. The best part? Harvesting the fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs that we worked so hard to nurture. There’s something so special about picking homegrown produce and knowing it’s all thanks to the collective effort. Finally, I created a recipe from my country Greece. A delicious meal using local Aruban harvest, and I can’t describe the joy of enjoying a meal made entirely from the garden’s bounty. This experience has taught me so much about sustainability, patience, and the beauty of growing food. I’m so grateful for the chance to be part of this journey and can’t wait to continue helping the garden grow and contribute in projects like this!

From caring for animals at a shelter to helping at a swimming tournament. Supporting nursing homes, planting fruit trees in schools, and even assisting at a skateboarding school, every experience has been heartwarming and eye-opening. Each opportunity brought me together with kind-hearted and passionate individuals from Europe, the Caribbean, and South America, creating a beautiful cultural exchange along the way.