here volunteers tell you about their trip experiences.......
kevin smith
Kevin joined the team to volunteer in August 2024 as part of the bathroom project in Moldova.
This is the account Kevin wrote of his experience:
It was a bright early August morning, as my wife drove me to junction 12 of the A12. My adventure was about to begin. I was to become a first time TEECH volunteer, their motto being 'toilets for schools'. There were 18 volunteers in all. The minibus transporting 8 volunteers arrived and I said goodbye to my wife, took my bag and hopped on the bus. I met Phil "what can possibly go wrong” from Middlesboro, a lovely man who can talk for England, well at least the Northeast. Our journey took us as far as Dover to pick up the ferry to Calais. A 2-hour delay and we were off. I was simply a passenger but 3 drivers over 3 and a bit days took us into the Republic of Moldova near the second city of Balti (pronounced Belts). On the journey we travelled through the night on the Saturday, having breakfast Sunday morning just west of Vienna. Didn’t see much of Germany it was dark. Sunday, we travelled through Hungary and passed into Romania for a shower, how I needed that and how prized, I would come to learn that was, beers, dinner and sleep.
To back track a little, a 40-tonne articulated lorry, an 18-tonne lorry and a large van had left Britain 2 days before us, loaded with everything we would need on the trip. Septic tanks, toilets, basins, paint, piping, lights, lots of wood and the Billericay Town purchased hand dryers. The lorries left earlier as they are slower, and they take time to get through some borders. The third day, Monday, we spent driving across Romania. Lovely scenery and we had time to see it as the motorways changed to single lane each way roads which certainly slows you down. We stayed in a border town on Monday evening and had the last chance of using a fully fitted out bathroom and toilet for a week. The next morning, we passed into Moldova. I was excited and a little nervous all at the same time.
All the trucks and 18 volunteers finally met up around 3pm on Tuesday afternoon in our first school in a village call Bursuceni. We had 14 Brits from as far away as Somerset, Middlesborough, Kent and Yorkshire. Claire from Northern Ireland, 2 Swedes and a Dane quite a collection. Add to that the local TEECH representative Romeo and a couple of schoolgirls who translated for us.
So, we made the school in Bursuceni our home for the next 4 days. We had 2 classrooms and 2 smaller offices as our collective bedrooms. No air conditioning it was 36oC each day. Toilets were outside and best described as holes in the ground. Martin, our chef, cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner for 18 of us every day. Homemade bread and cakes amongst them. Fresh water at the school was supplied from a well and pumped into the school. Its sulphur content was high, it smelt like bad eggs, a smell still in my nostrils today. Over 4 days we dug a large hole and sunk a septic tank into it. Painted ceiling and walls in a room allocated for indoor toilets. Plumbed in 2 boys’ urinals, 5 toilets and 4 hand basins. Connected new electric lights and hand driers and partitioned off toilet cubicle, doors. A special thanks to carpenter Brian, plumber Barry, electricians Carita and Bjorn and project manager Andy.
In addition to the main project Phil, who collected 50 bicycles, and me, serviced some 25 bikes and presented them to local children from about 4 to 16 years old. These children instead of walking miles to school in some cases can now cycle there. There was a shop set up that provided clothing, toys, walking frames, glasses, shoes and books to locals that had been selected by the local major. Lastly food parcels were delivered to the elderly, selected by the local Mayor in conjunction with social workers. All of this was done in searing heat and, as I mention, below, the evening shower was very welcome!
Apart from the local Chisinău beer the shower at the end of a hard-working day was great. Shower tents were supplied, and each volunteer had to supply a shower bag. It’s black, holds 5 litres of water and you fill it up in the morning, lay it in the sun and use the hot water after work. Shower heads were supplied which, with the use of a car battery, pumped water from a bucket onto the recipient. Luxury that’s for sure.
Our time in Bursuceni ended on Friday night when the local school mistress and villagers put on a feast and dancing for us. The school teachers really took a liking to us smiley westerners and the caretakers best palinka and homemade wine was produced.
Saturday morning, we packed up and moved about a hour north east to our second school in Moara de Piatra. A slightly larger village and a little more affluent being nearer to Balti we repeated our tasks again. The existing toilets were marginally better but best of all no sulphur. Here I went out to deliver food parcels to the locals and some of the housing was beyond what I had seen before outside tropical Africa. Principally there are 2 rooms the lounge/bedroom and a kitchen. They live a lot outside in the summer months but confined to their houses in winter where temperatures are typically -17oC.
I left one day early, and Romeo kindly drove me to Chisinău, the capital city, airport and I Wizzed home by plane in 3+ hours on Tuesday 20th August. The rest of the team returned by road getting home on the 25th.
To be part of this project was just amazing. I didn’t know what to expect. The volunteers were just great. I think only 2 of us were first timers. I was very proud to be part of the TEECH family for 10 days. It was hard work, unpleasant at times. Uplifting at times, it makes me reflect on how comfortable we are here in Britain and if all we can complain about is losing our winter fuel allowance, we've got it made. If the opportunity arose to do it again. YOU BET I WOULD. I would like to thank every member of Billericay Town Rotary club for the kind donation of the hand dryers and a special thank you to Jan and Barry for showing me what they have been doing for years. Lastly thank you to my wife for letting me go!
This is the account Kevin wrote of his experience:
It was a bright early August morning, as my wife drove me to junction 12 of the A12. My adventure was about to begin. I was to become a first time TEECH volunteer, their motto being 'toilets for schools'. There were 18 volunteers in all. The minibus transporting 8 volunteers arrived and I said goodbye to my wife, took my bag and hopped on the bus. I met Phil "what can possibly go wrong” from Middlesboro, a lovely man who can talk for England, well at least the Northeast. Our journey took us as far as Dover to pick up the ferry to Calais. A 2-hour delay and we were off. I was simply a passenger but 3 drivers over 3 and a bit days took us into the Republic of Moldova near the second city of Balti (pronounced Belts). On the journey we travelled through the night on the Saturday, having breakfast Sunday morning just west of Vienna. Didn’t see much of Germany it was dark. Sunday, we travelled through Hungary and passed into Romania for a shower, how I needed that and how prized, I would come to learn that was, beers, dinner and sleep.
To back track a little, a 40-tonne articulated lorry, an 18-tonne lorry and a large van had left Britain 2 days before us, loaded with everything we would need on the trip. Septic tanks, toilets, basins, paint, piping, lights, lots of wood and the Billericay Town purchased hand dryers. The lorries left earlier as they are slower, and they take time to get through some borders. The third day, Monday, we spent driving across Romania. Lovely scenery and we had time to see it as the motorways changed to single lane each way roads which certainly slows you down. We stayed in a border town on Monday evening and had the last chance of using a fully fitted out bathroom and toilet for a week. The next morning, we passed into Moldova. I was excited and a little nervous all at the same time.
All the trucks and 18 volunteers finally met up around 3pm on Tuesday afternoon in our first school in a village call Bursuceni. We had 14 Brits from as far away as Somerset, Middlesborough, Kent and Yorkshire. Claire from Northern Ireland, 2 Swedes and a Dane quite a collection. Add to that the local TEECH representative Romeo and a couple of schoolgirls who translated for us.
So, we made the school in Bursuceni our home for the next 4 days. We had 2 classrooms and 2 smaller offices as our collective bedrooms. No air conditioning it was 36oC each day. Toilets were outside and best described as holes in the ground. Martin, our chef, cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner for 18 of us every day. Homemade bread and cakes amongst them. Fresh water at the school was supplied from a well and pumped into the school. Its sulphur content was high, it smelt like bad eggs, a smell still in my nostrils today. Over 4 days we dug a large hole and sunk a septic tank into it. Painted ceiling and walls in a room allocated for indoor toilets. Plumbed in 2 boys’ urinals, 5 toilets and 4 hand basins. Connected new electric lights and hand driers and partitioned off toilet cubicle, doors. A special thanks to carpenter Brian, plumber Barry, electricians Carita and Bjorn and project manager Andy.
In addition to the main project Phil, who collected 50 bicycles, and me, serviced some 25 bikes and presented them to local children from about 4 to 16 years old. These children instead of walking miles to school in some cases can now cycle there. There was a shop set up that provided clothing, toys, walking frames, glasses, shoes and books to locals that had been selected by the local major. Lastly food parcels were delivered to the elderly, selected by the local Mayor in conjunction with social workers. All of this was done in searing heat and, as I mention, below, the evening shower was very welcome!
Apart from the local Chisinău beer the shower at the end of a hard-working day was great. Shower tents were supplied, and each volunteer had to supply a shower bag. It’s black, holds 5 litres of water and you fill it up in the morning, lay it in the sun and use the hot water after work. Shower heads were supplied which, with the use of a car battery, pumped water from a bucket onto the recipient. Luxury that’s for sure.
Our time in Bursuceni ended on Friday night when the local school mistress and villagers put on a feast and dancing for us. The school teachers really took a liking to us smiley westerners and the caretakers best palinka and homemade wine was produced.
Saturday morning, we packed up and moved about a hour north east to our second school in Moara de Piatra. A slightly larger village and a little more affluent being nearer to Balti we repeated our tasks again. The existing toilets were marginally better but best of all no sulphur. Here I went out to deliver food parcels to the locals and some of the housing was beyond what I had seen before outside tropical Africa. Principally there are 2 rooms the lounge/bedroom and a kitchen. They live a lot outside in the summer months but confined to their houses in winter where temperatures are typically -17oC.
I left one day early, and Romeo kindly drove me to Chisinău, the capital city, airport and I Wizzed home by plane in 3+ hours on Tuesday 20th August. The rest of the team returned by road getting home on the 25th.
To be part of this project was just amazing. I didn’t know what to expect. The volunteers were just great. I think only 2 of us were first timers. I was very proud to be part of the TEECH family for 10 days. It was hard work, unpleasant at times. Uplifting at times, it makes me reflect on how comfortable we are here in Britain and if all we can complain about is losing our winter fuel allowance, we've got it made. If the opportunity arose to do it again. YOU BET I WOULD. I would like to thank every member of Billericay Town Rotary club for the kind donation of the hand dryers and a special thank you to Jan and Barry for showing me what they have been doing for years. Lastly thank you to my wife for letting me go!
Steve PriCE
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Why did you volunteer?
I retired from a career in Finance, Accounting and IT in 2021 and one of my “to-do” things in my retirement was to get an HGV license with no particular purpose except to drive a big lorry ! Having done so I started thinking about what I could do with it. Definitely not wanting a job but wanting to do something positive I thought that there might be organisations needing volunteer drivers. An internet search came up with TEECH and very quickly I was signed up for the summer 2023 trip. What were the highlights? For me the highlights of the trips are the people I meet and the sense of achievement I get from making a difference to peoples lives. The volunteers come from very diverse backgrounds, are great fun to be around and driven by the same purpose. Meeting Moldovans from the very young to the very old is a real privilege and delivering aid and completing bathroom projects is a very positive and emotional experience for me. Working with volunteers with real trade skills and learning from them, hearing a Moldovan man explain the positives about his life changing injuries being able to spend time with his wife, convincing an older Soviet era gentleman that there really was no catch in the aid he was getting without being able to understand each other and of course driving big lorries – the list goes on and on. |
What was your role in the project/trip?
My main role is a driver, aside from that I have no particular relevant skill so I just try to useful. I have dug and filled trenches been an assistance carpenter, plumber, electrician, delivery driver, children’s entertainer and warm-up act, dish washer, santa’s helper….. I think you get the idea. Would you do it again? In a heartbeat. I am just about to do my third trip. If you would like to sum up your experience in a quote what would it be? Life Affirming. Steve in photo above whilst on the Christmas 2023 trip, hand delivering food parcels in villages. |
The following is an account of Tove experience in August 2023 as she joined TEECH from Sweden (photo above of Tove with sister Alice)
A place where time has stopped by volunteer Tove Stattin, August 2023
In a red little fire truck packed with clothes, medical supplies, walkers, and hospital mattresses, we drive to Moldova from Sweden to make a difference. The journey takes four days and once in place, toilets with running water will be built at two schools and hundreds of boxes from the charities TEECH UK and TEECH Sweden will be distributed to those in need.
In the village of Sloveanca, during a home visit, we meet an elderly man with a friendly shy smile who does not have enough money to buy food. The gratitude for the food and clothes we bring is great and before we leave he goes and gets his accordion. Even though he hasn't played for two years, the melody is still in his fingers. As he plays, the mayor of the village sings along and the smile grows on his lips. While playing, the man looks to be at least 10 years younger than before.
We drive on the narrow uneven gravel roads that wind through the village and a little later we also meet an elderly lady sitting on a bed, with a colourful blanket as a bedspread. She crosses one leg, which is almost 10 centimeters shorter than the other, and says that it hurts today. But despite the pain, the joy shines in her eyes. Earlier today she managed to get out of the small house she lives in and has seen the sun for the first time in 1 year and 5 months thanks to the walker she received the day before. Her home is simple, small, and worn, but she still insists that we should bring a colourful tablecloth that she knitted herself before we leave. Another lady gave us pears and grapes from her garden during our visit. It feels strange to receive gifts from these people who have nothing, at the same time as their kindness is overwhelming and comes to your heart.
During a home visit in the village Mîndretşii Noi, we meet a man who sits in the shade outside a small simple house peeling fruit. He lights up when we arrive to shake his hand and leave a box of food and clothes. He excuses his somewhat weak handshake with a gentle smile, points to large scars on his arm, and explains that he was hit by a car several years ago. In the accident, he also lost one leg and is now confined to a wheelchair. Before the accident, he worked as a farmer and spent all day in the fields. The man shrugs his shoulders and says that what happens, happens, and that everything has a meaning. Since the accident, he can finally spend time with his wife and for the first time, he helps her with the cooking. Life really becomes what you make it and I am fascinated by the man's strength and attitude.
It's like time stopped here. In the villages, both street names and street numbers are missing, and we navigate our way to the poorest families with the greatest need of our support with help from the mayor who knows which families live where. The local health centres we visit, to leave medical supplies are small and simple. Here, patients' medical records are stored in physical booklets and the staff proudly shows off the only office equipped with a computer.
At a refugee centre outside Bălţi, Moldova's second-largest city, we meet children and adults who have fled the war in Ukraine. Here, families live in small, worn rooms, along long corridors. They tell us that the fridge they are sharing is broken and we promise to help them to arrange a new one. Together with the refugees, we unload the water, food, clothes, and bicycles that we have brought. Everyone helps out. Some of the children get help to learn to ride a bike and laughs and smiles quickly spread among the crowd. We make friends with a little girl after offering some sweets. She speaks in Ukrainian while we answer in Swedish. Even though we don't understand a word, we laugh and have fun together. It feels like everyone is one big family where everyone helps out and takes care of each other.
During our nine days on-site in Moldova, we are also building bathrooms at two schools. The new bathrooms are equipped with water toilets and the sinks are connected to a water heater to provide hot water in the taps. The bathrooms we are building replace the existing sheds that are outside in the schoolyard. The sheds consist of three booths each for boys and girls where each stall is provided with a hole in the floor. The idea is that you "do your thing" squatting over the hole and you can guess what it smells like on a sunny day with a temperature of 37°C.
After living at the schools for over a week, it feels very good to know that real toilets are waiting for the children after the summer holidays.
In a country where almost the entire working-age population moves abroad to work, development takes a long time and even though a lot has happened in the country in recent years, the need for help and support from elsewhere is still great. No one can change everything, but we can all do something. I would therefore like to conclude by thanking everyone who made the trip possible. Many thanks to all family, friends, colleagues, and companies who contributed with clothes, blankets, toys, and funding. Together we have made a difference.
In a red little fire truck packed with clothes, medical supplies, walkers, and hospital mattresses, we drive to Moldova from Sweden to make a difference. The journey takes four days and once in place, toilets with running water will be built at two schools and hundreds of boxes from the charities TEECH UK and TEECH Sweden will be distributed to those in need.
In the village of Sloveanca, during a home visit, we meet an elderly man with a friendly shy smile who does not have enough money to buy food. The gratitude for the food and clothes we bring is great and before we leave he goes and gets his accordion. Even though he hasn't played for two years, the melody is still in his fingers. As he plays, the mayor of the village sings along and the smile grows on his lips. While playing, the man looks to be at least 10 years younger than before.
We drive on the narrow uneven gravel roads that wind through the village and a little later we also meet an elderly lady sitting on a bed, with a colourful blanket as a bedspread. She crosses one leg, which is almost 10 centimeters shorter than the other, and says that it hurts today. But despite the pain, the joy shines in her eyes. Earlier today she managed to get out of the small house she lives in and has seen the sun for the first time in 1 year and 5 months thanks to the walker she received the day before. Her home is simple, small, and worn, but she still insists that we should bring a colourful tablecloth that she knitted herself before we leave. Another lady gave us pears and grapes from her garden during our visit. It feels strange to receive gifts from these people who have nothing, at the same time as their kindness is overwhelming and comes to your heart.
During a home visit in the village Mîndretşii Noi, we meet a man who sits in the shade outside a small simple house peeling fruit. He lights up when we arrive to shake his hand and leave a box of food and clothes. He excuses his somewhat weak handshake with a gentle smile, points to large scars on his arm, and explains that he was hit by a car several years ago. In the accident, he also lost one leg and is now confined to a wheelchair. Before the accident, he worked as a farmer and spent all day in the fields. The man shrugs his shoulders and says that what happens, happens, and that everything has a meaning. Since the accident, he can finally spend time with his wife and for the first time, he helps her with the cooking. Life really becomes what you make it and I am fascinated by the man's strength and attitude.
It's like time stopped here. In the villages, both street names and street numbers are missing, and we navigate our way to the poorest families with the greatest need of our support with help from the mayor who knows which families live where. The local health centres we visit, to leave medical supplies are small and simple. Here, patients' medical records are stored in physical booklets and the staff proudly shows off the only office equipped with a computer.
At a refugee centre outside Bălţi, Moldova's second-largest city, we meet children and adults who have fled the war in Ukraine. Here, families live in small, worn rooms, along long corridors. They tell us that the fridge they are sharing is broken and we promise to help them to arrange a new one. Together with the refugees, we unload the water, food, clothes, and bicycles that we have brought. Everyone helps out. Some of the children get help to learn to ride a bike and laughs and smiles quickly spread among the crowd. We make friends with a little girl after offering some sweets. She speaks in Ukrainian while we answer in Swedish. Even though we don't understand a word, we laugh and have fun together. It feels like everyone is one big family where everyone helps out and takes care of each other.
During our nine days on-site in Moldova, we are also building bathrooms at two schools. The new bathrooms are equipped with water toilets and the sinks are connected to a water heater to provide hot water in the taps. The bathrooms we are building replace the existing sheds that are outside in the schoolyard. The sheds consist of three booths each for boys and girls where each stall is provided with a hole in the floor. The idea is that you "do your thing" squatting over the hole and you can guess what it smells like on a sunny day with a temperature of 37°C.
After living at the schools for over a week, it feels very good to know that real toilets are waiting for the children after the summer holidays.
In a country where almost the entire working-age population moves abroad to work, development takes a long time and even though a lot has happened in the country in recent years, the need for help and support from elsewhere is still great. No one can change everything, but we can all do something. I would therefore like to conclude by thanking everyone who made the trip possible. Many thanks to all family, friends, colleagues, and companies who contributed with clothes, blankets, toys, and funding. Together we have made a difference.
JOHN WILLIAMS, Volunteering since 2018
John Williams has been volunteering with TEECH for over 5 years and recently lost a best friend. John wanted to reflect on his friend Graham and how their friendship led John to TEECH.
The first time I met Graham was about 25 years ago whilst riding my Harley Davidson motorcycle around the streets of Harwich, Essex. With the distinctive sound of the engine, Graham’s head popped over the garden wall followed by his arms, beckoning me to stop. From there began a friendship with a man I quickly began to admire. It was his involvement with the charity Hope and Aid Direct, when I realised just how much he cared about the poor and downtrodden. He invited me to fly with him to Kosovo, to join the team delivering aid to local people, many of whom were suffering the effects of war. We went on two trips together and completed building work also. As a result of our friendship I also became involved with TEECH, where Graham was supporting TEECH with aid.
John has since been volunteering with TEECH as a coach driver and with all round building work on summer projects. John has recently been on the March 2022 trip to Moldova to provide aid to support the Ukrainian refugees, taking clothing which was gathered and box by his partner Linda.
The first time I met Graham was about 25 years ago whilst riding my Harley Davidson motorcycle around the streets of Harwich, Essex. With the distinctive sound of the engine, Graham’s head popped over the garden wall followed by his arms, beckoning me to stop. From there began a friendship with a man I quickly began to admire. It was his involvement with the charity Hope and Aid Direct, when I realised just how much he cared about the poor and downtrodden. He invited me to fly with him to Kosovo, to join the team delivering aid to local people, many of whom were suffering the effects of war. We went on two trips together and completed building work also. As a result of our friendship I also became involved with TEECH, where Graham was supporting TEECH with aid.
John has since been volunteering with TEECH as a coach driver and with all round building work on summer projects. John has recently been on the March 2022 trip to Moldova to provide aid to support the Ukrainian refugees, taking clothing which was gathered and box by his partner Linda.
John (left) swapping one horsepower for another on the Summer 2021 project trip in Moldova.
carita, Sweden 2019, and returned in 2021 & 2023
Loading the van in Sweden before departure
What were the highlights?
It´s difficult to chose among everything that I experienced. The drive to Moldova from Sweden and through all borders and costume. Meeting up with all the volunteers arriving by coach from England. Meeting all the very kind grateful Moldovan people and kids from the village and orphanage. But most of all, I think I really enjoyed all the hard work we all did together, getting my hands dirty and seeing the result of the project. What were your low points? I felt frustrated and confused during the first days of the project, before I was assigned to a team and got my own group of people to work with. Would you do it again? The feeling you get after all the hard work and all the gratitude you receive, makes it worth everything and more. I will do it again. |
Why did you volunteer:
I have been thinking about getting involved in some kind of charity or help organisation for a long period of time. I'm not to be considered “rich” but in my own eyes, I live a very privileged life. One of my friends got me involved in collecting aid and raising money for “The Swedish TEECH group” a few years ago. She has been on a Christmas trip and has participated in several summer projects and hence been talking a lot about TEECH and all the good work, great (crazy) people and the aid that’s provided. This year I got the question if I wanted to tag along for the summer project 2019. So I did. What was your role in the project and what did it involve? Initially I was asked to help drive to Moldova with aid given from our friends and sponsors in Sweden. Little did I know (or understood) about the actual project, and how it worked on site. I started up with unloading, loading, sorting project material and so on, but finally I ended up in Team Sparky, helping out with the electrical installation. I also had the chance to go out and deliver aid to an orphanage and a hospital. If you would like to sum up your experience in a 'quote' what would it be: Once joined in with the TEECH Family, you can never leave! Quote from Hotel California...... Last thing I remember I was running for the door I had to find the passage back to the place I was before "Relax," said the night man "We are programmed to receive You can check-out any time you like But you can never leave!" |
lee, south shields 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016 projects
In 2017 & 2018 LEE was project manager
Lee's prior year comments have been updated to 2017
Why did I volunteer?
2015: I have a privileged life, granted I don't own a yacht or a fancy car but I am under no illusions that it is a life of luxury. If I can take a little time out of my selfish existence to benefit those less fortunate than myself then I will always jump at the chance. Thank you TEECH for giving me this opportunity.
2017: This was my fifth summer project with TEECH. I believe the work that they do is fantastic and to see the benefit it provided and the gratitude of the local communities first hand is a priceless experience.
What was your role in the project and what did it involve?
On this occasion I was very privileged to be given the role of project manager. This involved ensuring that each of the project teams were adequately supported and that we had solid communication and cooperation. Most of this was achieved by a daily briefing to highlight progress and challenges and regular verbal updates during each working day. I also had a lot of hands on involvement, mostly with the external drainage work and the flooring, pointing and painting etc.
What were the highlights? It may sound a little silly but putting the onion (septic tank) in the ground manually. We had a load of the team around holding on to cargo straps and planks whilst others walked this huge thing towards a cavernous pit. Nailing the operation bang on first time was awesome and a lot of fun. It is always the little things that I enjoy the most.
Would I do it again?
Absolutely,no doubt.....there is a lot of work to do out there and I need to play my part.
If you would like to sum up your experience in a 'quote' what would it be:
You won't understand the magic until you experience it yourself.
TEECH, the little charity with the biggest heart. Thank you once again for leaving me tired, exhausted, starving and endlessly happy.
Would I recommend the charity to a friend?
Yes and I do this every day, EVERY DAY.
Lee's sister in law Lorraine joined him for the 2016 trip. Lee's girlfriend Kim joined him for the 2017 trip. Both ladies worked extremely hard on the project.
Why did I volunteer?
2015: I have a privileged life, granted I don't own a yacht or a fancy car but I am under no illusions that it is a life of luxury. If I can take a little time out of my selfish existence to benefit those less fortunate than myself then I will always jump at the chance. Thank you TEECH for giving me this opportunity.
2017: This was my fifth summer project with TEECH. I believe the work that they do is fantastic and to see the benefit it provided and the gratitude of the local communities first hand is a priceless experience.
What was your role in the project and what did it involve?
On this occasion I was very privileged to be given the role of project manager. This involved ensuring that each of the project teams were adequately supported and that we had solid communication and cooperation. Most of this was achieved by a daily briefing to highlight progress and challenges and regular verbal updates during each working day. I also had a lot of hands on involvement, mostly with the external drainage work and the flooring, pointing and painting etc.
What were the highlights? It may sound a little silly but putting the onion (septic tank) in the ground manually. We had a load of the team around holding on to cargo straps and planks whilst others walked this huge thing towards a cavernous pit. Nailing the operation bang on first time was awesome and a lot of fun. It is always the little things that I enjoy the most.
Would I do it again?
Absolutely,no doubt.....there is a lot of work to do out there and I need to play my part.
If you would like to sum up your experience in a 'quote' what would it be:
You won't understand the magic until you experience it yourself.
TEECH, the little charity with the biggest heart. Thank you once again for leaving me tired, exhausted, starving and endlessly happy.
Would I recommend the charity to a friend?
Yes and I do this every day, EVERY DAY.
Lee's sister in law Lorraine joined him for the 2016 trip. Lee's girlfriend Kim joined him for the 2017 trip. Both ladies worked extremely hard on the project.
michelle, gateshead, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 project
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Michelle's 2019 comments.
The 2019 TEECH project was my fourth, half way through my first trip, I would have put money on me chalking the whole experience up to a never to be repeated moment of madness, and yet somewhere in the middle of what feels like chaos, you realise in that moment you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else, doing anything else, with any other bunch of people. You spend days climbing over people in confined spaces, trying to complete your part of the project, permanently covered in a layer or dust, dirt or paint, sleep deprived and often not used to so much manual effort so every part of your body aches…. and yet most people come back for more! There is no single reason to join a TEECH project, but if you ask everyone that has, I’m pretty sure working with people that you otherwise may never have had the good fortune to cross paths with, is right up there, along with the fact that what TEECH Projects deliver in such a short space of time, is quite unbelievable. Every TEECH project is different, but the one constant to me is that each one is like joining a five ringed circus, built on the very best of intentions, powered by love, laughter and a touch of madness. |
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Dave, Lincoln, 2016, 2017 & 2018 projects
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Why did I volunteer?
I volunteered to make a difference. I wanted to be there, get stuck in and do something worthwhile. 2016 was my first trip and I would love to go again. This was and is an opportunity to help those who need it most. It was also an amazing way to see something grow from start to finish. What better way to meet new people and make life long friends. Everyone on the trip had one goal in mind, to get the job done for the children of the school. We were all equal and there to help. I wanted to see and learn about a new culture. I have heard about the hardships the people in Moldova are facing everyday but needed to see it for myself. To make a difference for one persons health, sanity or just way of life would have been great but to have the opportunity to help hundreds was AMAZING! Dave returned in 2017: Family. That’s the best way I can describe my reason. Our TEECH family makes you feel wanted, engaged, worthwhile and at home. What our small group accomplish in such a short time period is inspiring. We all put others first and make a massive difference. Just try and stop me coming again. What was your role in the project and what did it involve? 2016: My role was general dogs body, humper and dumper. I was part of the external dig crew from the start but found myself helping in every area available. I moved a lot of stock from Gym to Shop, shop security :-), painted, sanded, drilled, dug, put up partitions, pumped up footballs, distributed aid on and off site, cleaned, sawed, hammered, unloaded lorries, loaded lorries, made people laugh, toilet buddy, provided some 'banging tunes' for the coach journey and generally helped whoever needed me. 2017: I led the shop. Sounds easy but when you have tonnes of aid to distribute to multiple locations it gets tricky. Luckily I had the BEST team working with me and together we smashed it. We unloaded, separated, sorted, stored and distributed. We set up stores and shop away from main project, ran a free-shop for locals (crowd control was very important), we crossed numerous language barriers and got people what they needed to better themselves and the lives of their families. I attended various trips distributing walking frames, wheelchairs, food and much more to other project sites. It gave me an insight into how people live and what a difference we make. Heart-warming and upsetting at the same time. Very worthwhile job and couldn’t have been accomplished without such an amazing team. What were the highlights? There are too many to list but here are a few... Meeting so many like-minded amazing people was deffo a highlight. Seeing 4 empty shells gradually grow into what I can only describe as professional amazingness, filled us all with pride. Meeting the people and children of Moldova and seeing what a difference we can make. The winery... WOW! It was great to taste the gorgeous wines this tiny country produces but the highlight of the trip was learning about the history and restraints the winerys are under. When Russia ceased trade these miles and miles of underground tunnels filled with beautiful products was left alone. No one to sell too meant manufacture and distribution came to a halt. Great to see how they are starting to overcome this issue and getting back on track. Would I do it again? Yes 100%. Next time I would be even more prepared with more aid and backing. |
Were there any low points?
Thinking about it there was a low point for me. Well, I guess you could call it a low point. We went on a trip to see a local hospital for men, women and children who suffered with depression and schizophrenia. This place was supposed to be a haven for them, somewhere they could get better and get the help they needed. The problem was it was heart breaking for me to see. We only got to see 1 ward which housed 72 men but only had 52 beds. The people showing us round explained how things had got better since Teech were last there. They were using our beds, covers and mattresses but I was still shocked at the conditions. It was there it hit home that even though we were putting in 100% and bring a lorry full of aid and help, it was only scratching the surface of the real problem. I was down and upset that I couldn't do more, that our civilisation couldn't do more. Its like the majority of us have blinkers on. Until you actually see it, you don't believe it or want to believe it. Good news is I got over my slump with a bit of time out and a great chat from one of our 'elder statesmen' Cookie. He let me know we are doing good and we should be proud of our achievements. 290 children will have toilets, clean hands and privacy which they have never had before. Every little nut, bolt, toilet, smile or idea of how to improve lives is worthwhile. I really appreciated his view which makes this low point into a fantastic experience. |
matty, suffolk 2010, 2016 & 2018 projects
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Why did I volunteer?
I went in 2010 and loved it. Someone in the office said TEECH needed a driver and I thought why not. It was a life changing trip. I often describe it as a cross between Big Brother, Top Gear and DIY SOS. What was your role in the project and what did it involve? 'Stores'. I am not a tradesman by any stretch of the imagination so my role was running and organising the tool stores to start with. Then I was really involved in the 'Free Shop' both stocking and running it on the 3 occasions it was open. I also was in the team that made up all the aid parcels for the local villages. Team moral was another role :) also an older member of the team for the younger ones to ask questions of or share any worries or issues with. What were the highlights? I have met some incredible people. By nature groups are formed of like minded people and the little 'gang' we made will be friends for life. Other highlights were seeing the project come to fruition, and the team working to get it finished early. The people of Moldova were very friendly and the event they put on for us for wonderful. Would I do it again? Yes I would. Met great people first time and again this time. I enjoyed this one more because I went with friends and made more. |
Were there any low points?
There wasn't really any apart from saying goodbye to the people I had got close to at Chelmsford. The coach journey is LONG but you need it to bond on the way out. The toilets take some getting used to! |
rab, scotland, 2016 project....and retured in 2019
Claire, Northern Ireland 2016 Project
What were the highlights?
Seeing the faces of the kids and parents when I handed over the school bags to the individual kids from the class lists. So many of the kids were crying and it was out of complete gratitude. Another highlight was meeting so many new people both from UK and Europe and I've made so many friends who I'll keep in contact with. Were there any low points? I found it really hard visiting the hospital and seeing the sick people in the conditions we're certainly not used to that we take for granted as part of NHS. It just made me appreciate home a lot more. |
Claire joined the team again in 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Here are her 2016 reflections: Why did I volunteer? Volunteered for the first time to step outside my comfort zone and really wanted the opportunity to make a difference to people less fortunate than us but actually see the work being put into practice and get involved. What was your role in the project and what did it involve? I honestly felt a bit lost at the start because everyone had an allocated role/trade and it took a while for me to proactively get involved with the tradesmen/manual graft but I'll know for next time to just get stuck in and offer my help with anyone on any task. One of the guys who took me under their wing for one of the days which I enjoyed because I got to climb ladders, drill holes and dig etc. I spent time in 'shop', helping unpack all the aid boxes for village deliveries (donating clothing to the families) plus I got stuck into some painting. Would I do it again? 100% YES. I feel that if I didn’t go next year i'd be really missing out on something so great. |
rebecca, based in moldova with us peace corp 2015-2017
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There is an obvious major impact TEECH’s summer project has on infrastructure: Schools get an indoor bathroom, hospitals get important modern resources, community institutions have aid to help distribute. Since the team is working hard in Great Britain most of the time and donors are observing from afar, I worry sometimes they may miss the smaller-seeming, daily impact they’re having.
As a volunteer living full-time in Moldova since June 2015, I can attest to how the work TEECH does changes daily life for the better in the communities they work with. Students and teachers are healthier, happier, safer, and have a new source of pride in their community. Students are best able to focus on learning when they’re in this environment, when they’re healthy more often. Girls are better able to attend school after starting puberty - having fuller access to their right to education - because of the privacy and resources the new bathrooms provide. The TEECH team works alongside community members to achieve their projects, helping build both competence in project work as well as confidence that positive change is possible. Community members have a well-deserved sense of ownership in the results because they are so involved in the process. By being a part of a life-changing solution, people who work with TEECH are able to say “yes, I can do this! This can be better!” when they identify other issues they’d like to address in the community. The importance of this self-confidence is immeasurable – it empowers communities to continue improving on their own terms and by their own doing. |
From my perspective, TEECH is doing some of the best, most sustainable aid work I see happening in the country. I’m a US Peace Corps Volunteer and our emphasis is on sustainable development while doing cultural exchange. I was lucky to meet TEECH team members during their aid trip in winter 2015/16. Learning about how they worked from other Volunteers, I quickly recognized that this organization is quietly doing great work with communities. I was honored to volunteer with the group for several days during the summer 2016 project in Ivancea – it was truly the highlight of my summer – and reconnect during their most recent winter trip. Through the network of TEECH volunteers, students I work with are now participating in a pen-friend exchange with a school in Sunderland. I am excitedly looking forward to volunteering with this summer’s project in Sturzeni!
I greatly appreciate TEECH for the life-changing work they do with communities here and for being a model of effective development work. I am grateful to all who make it possible! |
liam, swansea 2015 & 2016 project
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Why did I volunteer?
I began my apprenticeship with BT Openreach in September 2014 and was introduced to the TEECH charity after an e-mail was forwarded to me. After looking into the e-mail and finding the TEECH website I quickly realised that the project was something I would like to get involved in. What was your role in the project and what did it involve? During my time on the project I worked doing basic labour and gave a helping hand whenever needed. The project introduced me to number of new skills and I learnt a lot of things I never thought I would even do for example putting lino on floors, tiling, and one day I was lucky enough to deliver aid to a number of hospitals. What were the highlights? Meeting a great bunch of people from different backgrounds all coming together to complete a worthwhile project. |
Were there any low points? Seeing some of the conditions in parts of the country including the mental hospital we visited in Balti and the original toilets which were used by the children at the school but knowing we were there helping to improve these conditions did prove that our time there is very worthwhile. Would I do it again? Yes without a doubt. I felt very welcome from the minute I got onto the bus! I would definitely recommend the project to anyone who was thinking about getting involved. |
jonathan, warrington 2014 & now living back in sweden 2015, 2016, 2017.....returned in 2019
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Now back living in Sweden the first overland trip from Sweden was in August 2017 to bring aid to Moldova and also work on the project.
Why did I volunteer? I was looking for a worthwhile project where I could contribute with my driving skills and came across the TEECH website which appealed to me instantly. What was your role in the project and what did it involve? Plumbing - mainly involved being the assistant of one of the more experienced plumbers. I really enjoyed doing this and learned a great deal from Kev and Cookie. What were the highlights? Driving on the Romanian mountain roads.Interacting with the locals. Completing the project. Would I do it again? Absolutely! Would I recommend the charity to a friend? Yes, already have If you would like to sum up your experience in a 'quote' what would it be: Volunteering for TEECH was one of the most meaningful and enriching experiences of my life. |
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hannah, london 2013 project
Why did I volunteer?
To try something new, give something back, meet new people, make a difference.
What was your role in the project and what did it involve?
It varied - painting, plumbing, laying lino, digging....anything I wanted to try.
What were the highlights?
I liked that I had the opportunity to get involved in different things, and felt I directly contributed to the project. It was also great meeting different people of different ages from all walks of life.
Were there any low points?
The long coach journey.
Would I do it again?
I would definitely consider coming on another TEECH trip, however the long coach journey may mean I would choose another volunteer project where I feel I'm spending my time adding more value.
Would I recommend the charity to a friend?
Yes - A great experience, great people, a big challenge
To try something new, give something back, meet new people, make a difference.
What was your role in the project and what did it involve?
It varied - painting, plumbing, laying lino, digging....anything I wanted to try.
What were the highlights?
I liked that I had the opportunity to get involved in different things, and felt I directly contributed to the project. It was also great meeting different people of different ages from all walks of life.
Were there any low points?
The long coach journey.
Would I do it again?
I would definitely consider coming on another TEECH trip, however the long coach journey may mean I would choose another volunteer project where I feel I'm spending my time adding more value.
Would I recommend the charity to a friend?
Yes - A great experience, great people, a big challenge
tony, hull . Each trip from 2013 to 2019 (plus Christmas trips)
Why did I volunteer?
I am always looking for new challenges and enjoy driving lorries.
What was your role in the project and what did it involve?
Primary role was driver. On site I spent most of the time with the joiners. Helping to :- Make good the floor with wood and concrete, Create new doorway for boys toilet/ shower room, install stud walls, install toilet partitions, lay lino. Additional role (in the Royal Navy I was taught never to volunteer, I had clearly forgotten, but it was a long time ago) I ensured that those disgusting toilets (the ones the children of the school experience everyday outside) were cleaned each morning.
What were the highlights?
The Sunday evening concert and dance. Those going around in a circle dances are more complicated than they looked and I never did fully understand that one where you had to pick up a hanky and get a kiss.
Mayor Damian saying 'What have you done to my village, 'Everyone is so happy'.
It was brilliant how quickly we all became like one big happy family and all looked after each other. On the last night, with a number of others, had worked through until about 05.15 am finishing various tasks and helping with the final loading of the 18 tonner so pleased that against what had seemed a day earlier an impossible deadline all was complete.
After everyone had got on the coach and we were about to leave, I decided to go and have one last look at what we had done.
Everything looked so perfect but I think it was the surprise sight of the little final touches of shower gel in the shower rooms and the colourful sponges behind each of the sinks that caused me to shed a tear or two. An unforgettable moment.
Were there any low points?
On the Monday night, I finished work at around midnight (the 3rd time that I had worked really late) and went to bed thinking that we had no chance of getting even close to completing the project before we would have to leave. It was so disappointing.
Would I do it again?
Yes, definitely.
Would I recommend the charity to a friend?
I regularly do.
I am always looking for new challenges and enjoy driving lorries.
What was your role in the project and what did it involve?
Primary role was driver. On site I spent most of the time with the joiners. Helping to :- Make good the floor with wood and concrete, Create new doorway for boys toilet/ shower room, install stud walls, install toilet partitions, lay lino. Additional role (in the Royal Navy I was taught never to volunteer, I had clearly forgotten, but it was a long time ago) I ensured that those disgusting toilets (the ones the children of the school experience everyday outside) were cleaned each morning.
What were the highlights?
The Sunday evening concert and dance. Those going around in a circle dances are more complicated than they looked and I never did fully understand that one where you had to pick up a hanky and get a kiss.
Mayor Damian saying 'What have you done to my village, 'Everyone is so happy'.
It was brilliant how quickly we all became like one big happy family and all looked after each other. On the last night, with a number of others, had worked through until about 05.15 am finishing various tasks and helping with the final loading of the 18 tonner so pleased that against what had seemed a day earlier an impossible deadline all was complete.
After everyone had got on the coach and we were about to leave, I decided to go and have one last look at what we had done.
Everything looked so perfect but I think it was the surprise sight of the little final touches of shower gel in the shower rooms and the colourful sponges behind each of the sinks that caused me to shed a tear or two. An unforgettable moment.
Were there any low points?
On the Monday night, I finished work at around midnight (the 3rd time that I had worked really late) and went to bed thinking that we had no chance of getting even close to completing the project before we would have to leave. It was so disappointing.
Would I do it again?
Yes, definitely.
Would I recommend the charity to a friend?
I regularly do.
