There are moments in life that fundamentally shift your perspective, moments that transform a concept like “giving” from an abstract idea into a vibrant, tangible reality. For me, and for the entire team at A Great Place To Give, our mission in Togo in June 2023 was one of those moments. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a pilgrimage of the heart, a chance to connect with children who needed to know they were seen and loved.
We went with a clear purpose: to deliver essential support to five orphanages. Over two incredibly full days—June 17th and 18th—we witnessed the profound impact of collective generosity. This mission was a logistical challenge, yes, but every mile of the journey was worth it for the moments of connection we shared. It showed us that true giving is measured not by the size of the donation, but by the depth of the intention we pour into it .
Our team was privileged to meet and spend time with 337 incredible children. To give you a sense of the scale and the heart of this mission, here is where our journey took us:
The images from the trip—which you can see on our Facebook page—tell a story words can barely capture. I will never forget the bright, welcoming smiles, the warm, spontaneous embraces, and the simple, unadulterated joy of the children receiving supplies. For them, our visit was a clear, undeniable message: “You are seen. You are valued. You are not forgotten.” That feeling, the knowledge that we were part of delivering that message, is the most powerful inspiration I have ever known.
The inspirational core of this mission is something we all carry home with us. It’s the realization that we don’t have to wait for a perfect moment to make a difference; we can create one right now. The spirit of “A Great Place To Give” is a philosophy for all of us. It asks us to look around our own lives—our communities, our workplaces, our families—and find the place where our unique gifts and resources can make the most meaningful difference.
How will you make a difference today?
This journey was a beautiful reminder that the greatest fulfillment comes from contributing to something larger than ourselves. I hope our activities inspires you to move beyond passive observation and into active participation. Whether you choose to support our organization, volunteer your time locally, or simply offer a helping hand to a neighbor, the impact of your generosity ripples outward, creating a chain reaction of hope. Let the spirit of the Togo mission ignite your own journey of giving.
Source : Paige Aquereburu – Volunteer at A Great Place To Give
