Over the past six weeks, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at the Raphael Centre for disabled children in Dehradun, India. My time there was both eye-opening and deeply rewarding. Each day brought something new to learn and experience, both from the students and from the dedicated staff who support them.
One of my main roles was helping to teach the children basic sports skills. We spent our mornings practising how to bounce a basketball, throw balls into the hoop, and develop coordination through simple games. Seeing their excitement and pride as they improved was one of the most rewarding parts of my time at Raphael.
In the afternoons, I helped in the candle-making workshop. Together with the students, we worked through each stage of the process; pouring the wax, cleaning the candles, and preparing them for sale. It was amazing to see how these activities help the students develop valuable life skills and independence while contributing to the Centre’s self-sustainability.
Beyond the daily activities, one of the highlights of my experience was forming close connections with many of the children and staff. Their warmth, humour, and resilience made every day feel meaningful and reminded me how much joy can be found in small, shared moments. I also found that this time deeply shaped me personally and spiritually. There were moments that challenged me, but they also taught me to slow down, trust, and rely on God’s strength and presence through it all.
During weekends, I had the chance to explore Dehradun and the surrounding areas. The town itself is lively and full of character, with great food and friendly locals. I also took a few trips to nearby Rishikesh, which quickly became one of my favourite places. Its scenic views and peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect weekend escape. In the evenings, I often went to a local gym near the Centre, which was a nice way to unwind and reflect on the day. Looking back, I often noticed how everything seemed to fall into place at the right time, in quiet ways that reminded me that God was present in every detail.
My time at Raphael was an unforgettable experience. It taught me patience, compassion, and the importance of community. It also helped strengthen my faith and reminded me to see God’s hand in both the challenges and the joys. I’m grateful to have been part of such a meaningful project, and I would encourage anyone considering volunteering to look into the Raphael Centre.
Mark