In late October, our volunteers in IYC Latvia shared two meaningful experiences with elderly residents and people with disabilities—two activities that remind us how small gestures can create deep human connections.
A visit to the National Library with Stella Maris residents
On October 25, together with a group of young volunteers, we accompanied six residents from the “Stella Maris” nursing home to the National Library of Latvia.
The highlight of the visit was the 11th floor, where the panoramic view of Riga never fails to amaze first-time visitors. Even without many photos—our hands were busy helping, guiding, and enjoying the moment—we enjoyed a lot!!!
A Sunday visit to the “House of Hope”
Last Sunday, we had another wonderful plan. Together with three high-school students and a university student from Sri Lanka, we drove to a home for people with various mental disabilities. The community home, called “Cerību māja” (House of Hope), is managed by the organization Cerību Spārni (Wings of Hope) and is located near Sigulda, about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Riga.
We spent the afternoon sharing tea with the residents and later worked together in the garden—raking and burning leaves, cutting branches, and spreading fertilizer. After the work was done, we enjoyed lunch, listened to a flute concert, and even sang a few songs together.
These encounters—whether overlooking the Riga skyline or sitting around a table in the countryside—remind us of the importance of presence, patience, and genuine human connection. Every visit enriches both the residents and the young volunteers who choose to give their time.
