Livia Vonlanthen

Hi, my name is Livia. In July 2024, I had the opportunity to travel to Cuenca for the second time in my life. I was really looking forward to seeing my acquaintances again and volunteering with the Fundación Avanzar. I helped organize and run the "Colonias Vacacionales" (Vacation Camps). During this time, I talked to children aged 5-13 about various topics such as healthy eating and good daily habits. Since I enjoy cooking in my free time, it was a great pleasure for me to prepare snacks with the children. I also had a wonderful time with the other volunteers, and we did many activities together during our free time. 

On some afternoons, I helped out at Avanzar’s Ludoteca at the Vicente Corral Moscoso Hospital (toy library). Even though the children and parents were often a bit shy, it was heartwarming to see how a small gesture could make the time in the hospital a little more bearable.

 Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cuenca. New friendships were formed, and I was able to immerse myself even deeper into the culture and life of Ecuador.