Humanity and Hope wouldn’t be the organization it is today without an incredible team of volunteers. Today, we want to introduce you to Haylee! Haylee went on her first trip with us in February of this year and has been plugged into our community ever since — volunteering on our economy team and joining our recent book club. Thank you so much for all that you do, Haylee!
How did you first hear about Humanity and Hope?
I first heard about Humanity and Hope in 2019 through social media. My best friend Kaley convinced me to sign up for a trip with her!
What was your favorite memory from Honduras?
In Honduras, I enjoyed getting to meet people from La Cuchilla, Remolino, and La Coroza the most. Everyone was so welcoming, loving, and kind. For my first trip, it felt very special to actually meet and interact with the people from each of the three communities that H&H helps. A common theme I noticed between all of the people we encountered was that they were grateful for H&H because H&H has allowed them to help others within their community. The generosity was so abundant.
My favorite memory was the day we spent at the newly built bakery in La Coroza. When we arrived in the morning, the women who run the bakery made us breakfast. As we sat with them, we listened to their dreams and hopes for the future of the bakery, the difficulties they have encountered so far, and the recipes they enjoy making and the recipes they want to learn to help grow their menu. It was so inspiring to hear that their main goal is to be able to give any woman who wants to work there with them a job and to make quality food that people enjoy. After discussing their future plans for the bakery, we were able to cook a pasta meal for them.
What do you do outside of volunteering with H&H?
Outside of H&H, I work for an environmental consulting firm as an environmental scientist/ biologist. In my spare time, I enjoy kayaking, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
How are you continuing to stay plugged into the H&H community?
I volunteer on the H&H economy team, where I try to use my background in environmental science and natural resources to help contribute to H&H. I was also a participant in the H&H book club!