Nine high school grads traveled to South Sudan to volunteer at Guolyar, an Internally Displaced Persons Camp for people from Arok Garang’s home area of Paliau.

They are helping residents of the camp who were displaced by the flooding of the White Nile River more than four years ago. Some are teaching school under the trees while others are helping with crops.  They are grateful to connect with their South Sudanese culture.  Some are also reconnecting with extended family they have not seen in years or possibly never met.

The volunteer year gives students an opportunity to “give back” to their homeland.  It also brings the hardships of South Sudan into sharp focus for our students, preparing them for conditions when they return permanently.

Caption for Picture above:
The high school grads were joined by the local chief during a welcoming ceremony at the camp. From left, Magai Malueth,  Chol Lual, Chief Garang Jok, Thuch Garang , Adoor Abuoi,
Ajak Atem , Deng Lual  and Bol Machar. Not pictured are Arok Maketh and Ajak Aboui.