Why We Keep Coming Back

by Stacy Tea

Work camp is like having kids. It’s hard work, and some days you wonder why you have kids. Some days you ask yourself, "Why did I sign up for work camp?" After the first kid, you are asked if you will have another. My response is no, until you forget about the sleepless nights. After our 1st work camp, I was also asked if I would do it again. My initial answer was also no, but here I am, back in Vietnam again! The founder Duy-loan Le asked why we decided to return. Here are my top 10 reasons:

1. My 15 and 17-year-old kids really wanted to attend work camp again despite having diarrhea for a week last time.

2. Our kids built lasting friendships during work camp last year, and they continued those friendships back in the States. They wanted to “hang out” with SEEDS members.

3. Our kids wanted to give back and continued to contribute to their community even after we left work camp last year. It’s been a great reminder that one little person can make a huge impact for the masses.

4. We, as a family, built a connection with each other during our first work camp. We also made lasting connections with other families who attended and were thrilled when we heard they were returning as well.

5. I was excited to experience the endorphins of service I felt last year.

6. We saw the growth and maturity of our kids after the experience and wanted to continue to nurture their appreciation and curiosity about their Vietnamese heritage.

7. It was a great balance of volunteerism and tourism all in one trip.

8. It is very organized, thanks to the countless hours of all involved in the planning process.

9. We heard that each trip is different but also makes a lasting impact with each experience.

10. We didn’t have to plan it. :-)

Based on this list and the other 100 reasons, will I return for the 3rd time? Yes!!!