STEPPING STONES TO SUCCESS- Cartagena, Colombia, March 2018

STEPPING STONES TO SUCCESS

Cartagena, Colombia March 2018

 Getsemani hot spot

Sometimes the stars align. Or, more accurately, sometimes the stepping stones are laid down in such a way that you have no choice but to follow them. That best describes our experience coming back to Cartagena, our first stop when we started this travel and volunteering journey more than two years ago.

Appreciating "la oportunidad"

Once again, our friend Christina Kuntz, who connected us to foundations at that time through her organization Domino Volunteers, provided not one but two inspiring opportunities. We discussed the first at  lunch at Cafe Stepping Stone, a restaurant with delicious, healthy and creative meals. 

But that's just the beginning of what they provide. This social enterprise, founded less than a year ago by three charismatic Aussies in their 20's, provides a chance for local youth who have faced a host of difficulties, to earn money, receive training working at a restaurant, and so much more.

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All the best qualities

We provided four one-hour workshops at the Cafe, despite the challenges of ill employees, a broken oven, and an election weekend. They worked on their communication skills and learned about conflict resolution--critical in a fast-paced, stressful environment like a restaurant. 

Looking to a successful future

There were other exercises that were specific to the environment they were working in like discussing the qualities that define an ideal server. 

Since they were all eager to learn English (but shy about using it), we gave them useful phrases and a chance to practice.  

Team-building activities--including planning an event to announce their expansion to dinner hours--helped build their sense of community.

Sharing their dreams

Put perhaps  most impactful (certainly for us) was when they were asked to imagine their lives 10 years from now and the kinds of goals they need to acheive to be sure they get there. 

Their dreams were big. Working at the restaurant has already inspired them to become successful business owners once they've gained the necessary experience. With Stepping Stone to guide them, we know they are on the right path.

Coffee and English 

Our second volunteer experience here was helping several women who head foundations in Cartagena improve their English. 

While we only had two sessions together, our time was filled with learning, laughter, and lots of love. And if that wasn't enough, our fellow volunteer from Cusco, Andrea, was able to join us. We wouldn't have it any other way.