Be The Good recently helped fund Hollyn Lentz’s year-long service trip to Thailand. With the support of Autism Career Training, Hollyn passionately advocates for quality, individualized education for all children as a direct aide to a student with special needs at one of the International Schools.
She shared the following insights from her time abroad.
What was your favorite part of your service trip?
I loved getting to live and learn from the locals. Thailand has a lot of knowledge and beauty, and the culture is warm, welcoming and full of smiles. Living there and working there for a year allowed me many opportunities to immerse myself in Thai culture.
I drove a motorbike, ate locally, worked with people from all over the world and learned so much about disabilities. The most impactful moment was attending the first Night to Shine, a special needs prom in Thailand sponsored by Tim Tebow! Volunteers donated dresses and offered up time and resources to do everyone’s hair and makeup, and so many individuals were pampered for exactly who they are! There was a red carpet, confetti, dancing and a catered meal to complete the evening.
It was extraordinary to see so many people feel loved and accepted.
Why was participating in this service trip important to you? Why was it vital to the community/child you served?
This service trip was important because I care deeply about those with disabilities. Disability services continue to develop in Thailand, just like they are in America, and I felt and continue to feel passionate about education for children with disabilities.
Equal opportunities and the ability to get an education are crucial for all children. This service trip allowed me to participate in how Thailand is supporting children with intellectual disabilities in schools.
I worked in a classroom for much of my time and helped further develop a special education program for an international school. I hope many other students will benefit from the educational support provided at this school.
What was the most humbling experience of this trip?
Living somewhere where I didn’t know the language or customs was a big learning curve. I was humbled daily by my interactions, which usually ended in laughing with the locals. Some of the most humbling experiences included learning to ride a motorbike in the rainy season, driving on the opposite side of the road, ordering food and all my market encounters.
I got very used to being flexible, failing and asking many questions.
How has participating in this trip changed your perspective and expanded your view of the world?
This experience has completely opened my universe. My worldview has expanded, and my heart is bigger than when I left.
The thing I’ll take away the most is that our cultures are not all that different. We want the same things in life—happiness, joy, family, safety, education, etc. Living and volunteering in Thailand showed me this in so many ways.
In a divisive world, this trip has given me so much appreciation for all those who live in it and life as a whole. I am so grateful for these learning opportunities and for the way they have opened my eyes to the power of unity and togetherness.
