In response to a question posted on Facebook (tell us you’re reason for joining Great Shape) Marie Curry says:

“I am not sure where to begin because the entire experience was so awesome. I have a picture of my boscobel kids on my desktop and every time I see it I smile. I was lucky enough to teach reading. Some of these kids responded so well. I can’t wait to see them again this year and see how they have progressed. They promised to read at leas two books before I got back this year. It is interesting in that I thought more of this as a “vacation,” when in fact it was work. The most rewarding work I have ever done. The thing that stays with me the most is how unbelievably grateful these kids are. It is so much more about what I learned from them than it is what I was able to teach them. The giving of my time, and myself is nowhere near the experience of what I received back from these children. WOW. I have received correspondence from the teachers of the classes that I taught over this past year. I cannot imagine not doing this every year that I am able.

Another thing that stands out in my mind is the awesome gentleman who shared his beach and “the turtles” with us. What an amazing thing he is doing to preserve the lives of these baby turtles.

The staff at Beaches was awesome as well. We were treated like Kings and Queens. “No problem” is a universal theme in Jamaica, but at Beaches, it certainly could not have been more true. The entire staff was there for us no matter what the request was. There was never any problem that they didn’t fix. Actually, there was no problem at all. The staff was awesome.

I can’t write of my experiences without mentioning the “women and men behind the project.” I felt so appreciated and welcome by everyone involved in putting this fabulous project together. Their support, knowledge, experience and advice was invaluable. Georgene and Lucinda, Gretchen and all the others (names escaping me at the moment) were incredible, fun and dedicated. Thank you all.

Last, but certainly not least, the other volunteers. I formed friendships that will last a lifetime. I had so much fun with the other volunteers and met so many diversified and talented people. I am looking forward to seeing some of them again. Thank goodness for Facebook.“

Time is running out and Great Shape still needs volunteers to fill spots in both the first and second week. Join Great Shape! Inc. and our volunteers abroad; experience the trip you will never forget.

To join SuperKids along with Marie, email: superkids@gsjamaica.org