• Morgan Brown, aged 22 years old
• Volunteering with DGS from March - August 2007
• Home country: USA

From my first day at Deep Griha I felt welcomed, valued, and inspired. These three feelings all contributed to a great deal of motivation and desire to work every day. It is impossible to not be inspired by the others working at Deep Griha. I was fortunate enough to be shown around the Tadiwala Rd. area on my first day of work by a woman who would look after me during the course of my six month stay and we now refer to each other as mother and son. It is one of the most special and most significant relationships I’ve ever had, and one that was fostered by the pervasive spirit of Deep Griha.

I remember listening in rapt attention to Dr. Neela Onawale recount the history of her courageous founding of Deep Griha society and its subsequent expansion to this day. I remember the smiling faces of the children in the crèches and the great service that the walk-in clinic gave to so many people in this resource-limited setting.

Given strong personal commitment and drive, it is very possible to become involved and experience a wonderful sense of freedom of action. Shortly after outlining my capabilities and ways in which I felt I could help the organization, I was given approval and support and confidence.

I’ve worked for many organizations in India and elsewhere as a volunteer and the level of support for their volunteers from Deep Griha is truly exceptional. The entire experience is perhaps more amazing because one comes away feeling like the person receiving the greatest benefit may have been the volunteers themselves. The work that is done by volunteers is temporary, but useful, the real sustainable work will continue due to the drive of the organization, but the volunteers receive permanent personal enrichment and lifelong memories and friends. I hope to remain connected to these memories and friends for the rest of my life.