What does it take to meet a family’s basic needs when food, clean water, adequate shelter, and other essential resources are scarce? Buckingham Friends School eighth-grade students explored that question firsthand during a three-day visit to Heifer International’s Global Village in Sharpsburg, Maryland.
As part of the immersive program, students stepped into simulated homes modeled after communities around the world. Through interactive activities and hands-on learning, they experienced some of the challenges faced by people living in poverty and experiencing hunger and explored how access to resources shapes everyday life. The experience also encouraged students to reflect on their responsibility to take action as members of both their local and global communities.
“Being there helped me to be mindful of how much we consume in our daily lives, to make sure that we consider what’s necessary and to not waste any more products,” said Pearl, who lived in the Appalachian village.
“We had a writing assignment on privilege when we came back, and it really got me thinking that in my life, I should be taking advantage of all that is offered to me and use the privilege to help those who don’t have the same advantages in life,” said Daniel, who lived in the Kenyan village.
Through the experience, Daniel, Pearl, and their classmates were also challenged to problem-solve, work together, and prioritize their resources as they prepared a communal dinner within their village’s means.
“Another takeaway for me personally was that I could actually provide for myself and others in a situation like that,” Daniel added. “I made us food and a fire, and that gave me a boost in self-confidence, which kind of helped me.”
“I was particularly reminded of our students’ power to draw significant meaning from their experience in the Heifer International Global Village program. Their shared thoughts in group discussions and written reflections speak to their insight on the human condition,” said Stephanie Thliveris, 8th Grade Co-Advisor, Science Teacher, and Mindfulness Teacher. “Yet above all, I was humbled to witness our students engage challenges, help others, feel deeply, and speak their truth together. This is a great testament to the power of a Quaker education, and to building community, reflecting thoughtfully, and deepening friendships. Simply powerful.”
The annual Heifer Global Village trip reflects Buckingham Friends School’s Quaker-inspired commitment to “Caring for Others.” Experiences like this encourage students to develop empathy, recognize their connections to people and communities around the world, and consider how they can contribute to a more peaceful and just world.