Better Together

One of the things that has always impressed me most about the Hoboken Cares team is how well we work together as a team in Jamaica. No matter how big or small our team is, whether we are twenty people, thirteen or just seven, there does not seem to be a job that is too big. It doesn't matter how many people have been on the team before or how many are experiencing Jamaica for the first time, we always find a way to come together to form a plan to tackle the project at hand in the most efficient way possible.

Our project for the week is to measure a total of about 100 residents for new wheelchairs. In just two days we have been able to complete about 75% of the project. This would not have been possible if the seven of us, plus our honorary team members, Zamaney and Parisa (two of Mustard Seeds long-term volunteers) could not come together to form two groups to divide and conquer the huge task in front of us. Each person has their specific job, but is always willing to jump in to help in any way.

We also could not accomplish everything that we have so far without the amazing collaboration from the caregivers and therapists who know the residents best. Working with them on this project this week has made me think about how they too are a team. Our team comes together to work for these seven days, but these caregivers are a team every day. They come together to provide the best possible care for our kids. Every year, I am continually impressed by the hard work and dedication that they give day in and day out.

This year, I have also been struck by how much the residents who are able work together with the caregivers to assist the others in their community. Whether it's Chrissagaye, Mary and Donovan carrying laundry between cottages at Sophie's Place, or Monique making sure there is a pillow under Akeem's head, or Samayah looking out for the younger kids at Dare to Care and Martha's house, everyone works together to take care of their Mustard Seed family. One thing is certain, we are all better together in Jamaica.

~ Meaghan (4th year)