Keydi Alvarado, a dedicated volunteer at Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) in Peru, has been making a significant impact since her arrival in July 2023. As the Volunteer and Visits Coordinator, she has committed herself to enhancing the lives of children and adolescents in the NPH home, a mission that resonates deeply with her personal values and experiences.
Inspiration to Serve
Keydi was drawn to NPH by its commitment to addressing critical social issues affecting vulnerable children in Latin America. She appreciated the comprehensive nature of the NPH volunteer program, which not only offers a structured application process but also instills a sense of security for those who choose to serve. Her motivation is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a nurturing environment that fosters personal and familial well-being.
Celebrating Christmas at NPH
The Christmas season at NPH is a time of joy and community. Keydi describes the lead-up to Christmas as filled with excitement, love, and music. The children eagerly await visitors who join in the festivities, emphasizing that Christmas is about sharing and togetherness. During her first Christmas at NPH, she experienced profound happiness amid laughter, games, and shared meals featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine.
In preparation for the holiday, Keydi actively participated in decorating the children’s homes and engaging them in discussions about their new clothes and shoes for Christmas Day. The celebration itself was vibrant, featuring music, desserts, fireworks, and a visit from Santa Claus, who brought gifts for all the children. This festive atmosphere was further enriched by the presence of caregivers, staff members, older siblings, former volunteers, and godparents who joined in creating lasting memories.
Personal Reflections on Christmas Traditions
Reflecting on her own family traditions during Christmas, Keydi recalls special dinners and festive outings with friends and family. One cherished memory involves distributing “tamales” and sodas to children in low-income neighborhoods—a gesture that brought immense joy to those they served. She also enjoys preparing traditional Honduran dishes during December festivities, highlighting the importance of community and sharing food with neighbors.
Impact on Children’s Lives
Keydi believes that her presence and companionship during the Christmas season have a more profound impact than her specific duties as a volunteer. By spending quality time with the children and engaging them in meaningful conversations about their dreams and aspirations, she helps create cherished memories that they will hold onto for years to come.
Her interactions emphasize essential values such as faith, discipline, persistence, and self-confidence—qualities she hopes will guide them toward achieving their goals.
Looking Ahead: Hopes for NPH
As 2025 approaches, Keydi expresses her aspirations for both NPH and its children. She hopes they continue to grow surrounded by love and empathy while fostering resilience and spirituality. Her ultimate wish is for NPH to maintain its mission of creating secure family environments where every child feels valued and part of a family unit.
Unique Experiences at NPH
Keydi’s experience at NPH has been enriching and transformative. She emphasizes that it has provided her with numerous personal and professional learning moments that she will cherish forever. Through her work at NPH Peru, she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who need it most.