Going to Peru with Cross-Cultural Solutions (CCS) was one of the most memorable experiences in my life. Even three years later, I rarely miss a day where something sparks my memory of those two incredible months. As you consider devoting time going to a developing world, I know there are many logistical uncertainties, especially if you are younger and your parents have a say in the decision.

Will it be safe? How will I pay for it? Is the program legitimate? What will the living conditions be like? Where will I work? But, I will tell you, if you even have the slightest desire to see the world through a new perspective and if you value serving fellow humanity, this is the trip for you. CCS is so on top of things, everything is taken care of.

The CCS staff are amazing to work with; completely organized, knowledgeable, and compassionate toward the cause. In Peru, the CCS staff are all locals who treat you with so much love, teach you so much about their country, and the food... superb! Much better (and healthier) food than any college student could dream of getting in school. I still have cravings for papa relleno and for fresh mangoes straight out of the Amazon jungle, and passion fruit (a special favorite that I still haven't never found in the U.S.).

On to the real reasons for going... Volunteering abroad will rock your world! Peru is a naturally beautiful place with a rich culture and history. Its current political and social state is heart wrenching, but the resilient citizens will teach you more about faith and hope than anything else in the developed world. I think of the kids I worked with while I was down there; both the orphans and the ones with families were so poor financially, yet so similar to any other kid in the world. They laugh, they fight with each other, they love to play sports, they cry, they love to be loved, and they love talking to Americans. They ask a ton of questions about our country and it's a blast to explain to them that America is more than Hollywood, and not everyone is a millionaire (or billionaire). They are people who, like you and I, want what's best for our family, ourselves, and God.

Learn more about the Peru Experience » with Cross-Cultural Solutions

You build such close relationships with the people you work with (volunteers and locals) that it's really hard to leave. I remember how special the time was in Ayacucho and Lima, and I hope there are no barriers that will hold you back from the experience of a lifetime. You will get to travel to one of the most adventurous countries in the world (mountains up to 22,000 feet, jungles, desert, ocean, cliffs, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu, and on and on.) You will get to experience a completely novel culture. And you will be a part of something bigger than yourself—serving mankind and fanning a flame of hope and joy that for so many has grown faint. I promise you won't regret going, so what are you waiting for?

Article contributed by Mike, a Cross-Cultural Solutions volunteer

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