ECUADOR: Salesian students volunteer time at nursing home
Salesian Agronomic Institute empowers youth to be committed to service and community care
ECUADOR
(MissionNewswire) Students from the Salesian Agronomic Institute’s missionary club have taken their service beyond the school and are helping people in their community in the Paute canton in Ecuador. Every Saturday, these students visit the Antonio Granda Centeno Nursing Home, where they share moments of joy and companionship with the elderly residents.
During these visits, students paint with the residents, play bingo, serve food and assist people who have with disabilities in eating. Youth listen to and emotionally support the residents, many of whom experience loneliness.
Danna Romero, a member of the club, has found the experience deeply enriching. “I have always felt the calling to serve, and I believe that the best work one can do is sharing with those in greatest need.”
For Romero, the missionary club has been instrumental in following her vocation. She added, “Serving at the nursing home in Paute has been one of the best things I’ve done. The love and wisdom our elders share with us are immense, and everyone should have the chance to experience that.”
Eduardo Parra, another student, emphasizes that this activity has helped him reflect on the importance of empathy and solidarity with others. He noted, “Understanding that there are elderly people who feel gratified just by having someone visit and listen to them has opened my eyes.” He also highlighted the enthusiasm of the residents, who participate in every activity and express their happiness.
Inspired by Don Bosco’s legacy, the Salesian Agronomic Institute emphasizes the importance of empowering youth to be committed to service and community care. Through these initiatives, students not only gain valuable lessons in responsibility and empathy but also actively contribute to the social development of Paute canton.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Ecuador
UNICEF – Ecuador
