Editor's Note: JBFC hosts more than one hundred guests on campus every year. A substantial portion of those guests are on their second, third, or even fourth trip to JBFC's campus in Tanzania. In this blog, we talk to some of our friends for whom one trip just isn't enough. They explain what keeps them coming back and how much JBFC has changed over the years.
Kristen - intern and 3-time volunteer
* Tulsa, Oklahoma
* University of Oklahoma, Majoring in Elementary Education
* Date of last visit: Summer 2013
What brings you back to JBFC?: "I like returning to JBFC because of the relationships I have formed with the residential girls. The organization's steady growth continues to draw me back to campus too. I love to see Chris' vision come to life and make such a visible impact!"
How have things changed since your last visit?: "Since it has been three years since my last visit, campus has definitely grown! The new Papa's location is finished and in use, there are administrative office buildings, the library is full of books, the science lab has counters with sinks and equipment, there is a greater variety of plants and animals, the lake has risen, and many environmental projects are in the works! The kids have also changed! The first graduating class has moved out and now there are younger girls here. There is a different energy on campus without the older girls, but the new girls are adorable, sweet, and funny. I can't wait to get to know them better!"
Anything you are surprised by this visit?: "I'm surprised by how many girls remember me after two summers away!"
What advice do you have for new guests?: "Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Although coming to Africa is a big leap for most people, continue with a brave and ambitious mindset during your stay. Even if an activity isn't part of your normal routine, give it your all!"
Anna - 4-time volunteer
* Tulsa, Oklahoma
* Oklahoma State University, Majoring in Psychology
* Date of last visit: Summer 2014
What brings you back to JBFC?: "The girls single-handedly bring me back every year!"
How have things changed since your last visit?: "The farm has grown so much and is so successful. I got to plant some of the seeds that are now used as food, which is awesome to see! The girls' English is almost twice as good now too!"
What advice do you have for new guests?: "Spend as much time getting to know the girls as possible! They each have unique personalities and deserve to be cherished as individuals. Also, be very conscious of your surroundings - you're in a very different culture. Go out of your way to be extra respectful to everyone you encounter. How you treat them is a representation of you and your group and it can leave a lasting impression of western visitors."
Rachel - 4-time volunteer
* Tulsa, Oklahoma
* Yale University, Majoring in Cognitive Studies
* Date of last visit: Summer 2015
What brings you back to JBFC?: "The meaningful relationships I've formed with the girls!"
How have things changed since your last visit?: "The farm has gotten much bigger. The girls' English continues to improve, and the teachers seem better."
Anything you are surprised by this visit?: "Nope!"
What advice do you have for new guests?: "Work at getting to know the girls. Keep a journal your first summer. Try to spend time just hanging out and helping at the girls home instead of just sitting at the guest house. Become friends with the international staff...they rock!"
