Meet Ashley! Ashley McKenzie joined us for her first group trip in September 2018 and has been on two more since. She works as a flight attendant and lives in Little Rock, Arkansas. Read all about Ashley’s experience in Honduras here and how the people she’s met have changed her life!
What was your favorite part of going to Honduras?
When I first heard about H&H, I really felt like this was something I needed to be apart of. I tried hard to recruit my friends to go with me on a trip but it kept falling through and they weren’t able to go. I kept feeling as though God wanted me to still go because it wasn’t about me. From the moment I got there, everyone was so welcoming and there were so many people around my age that went solo as well. We all bonded in many different ways and it was an eye opening experience. The people of the villages were welcoming and loved seeing the groups show up. They were full of a joy that I can’t even explain even with the little that they had. They had a love in their heart that’s hard to explain. It’s something you have to feel.
How has being a part of H&H changed your daily life?
Honduras has impacted my life in many ways. The people I have met in the villages show more love and joy than I’ve ever experienced. They have taught me to be grateful for everything. Something as small (to us) as a pan to cook on is worthy of being celebrated. They work hard, love hard, and are so joyful to see us show up. I can’t forget about the friendships I’ve made being apart of H&H! We stay in contact and fly around the U.S. to see each other. Those friends will last for a lifetime because we’re all connected in a Godly way. We share joyful moments with each but we also share our struggles together.
Advice to someone thinking of going on a trip?
I would say if you’re interested in going on a trip with H&H, don’t think about it, just SIGN UP! It will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. You will see things and experience things that will open your eyes and heart. God can/will use you! Maybe this trip isn’t for you to help someone, maybe they’re going to help YOU see the world in a new way. The joy and friendships you’ll get on the way will be worth it more than you know!
What do you do outside of volunteering with H&H?
My full time job is working for an airline as a flight attendant! This is a blessing in itself because I’m able to get to Honduras easy! It’s helped me the last couple of trips I’ve been on.
How are you continuing to stay plugged into the H&H community?
I stay in contact with many of the leaders and friends I’ve met through H&H and I’m always looking for the next trip that I can go on – which I believe this year (hopefully in October) will be my fourth trip!