By Antonia Calin ’22 (Buftea, Romania, placed ASSE by in Tyler, TX)
In a world often characterized by the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is easy to overlook the value of human connection, especially with our elderly citizens. Niciodata Singur (Never Alone), a non-governmental organization in Romania dedicated to providing companionship and support for the elderly, offers a poignant reminder of the importance of forging these connections. The FLEX Alumni community in Romania has developed a meaningful and long-lasting collaboration with Niciodata Singur, benefiting the alumni community, the organization, and seniors in Romania.
During my FLEX exchange year, I got remarkably close to the senior community of my town of Tyler, Texas, through service activities at the Hideaway Church. There were about 40-50 senior citizens attending activities such as Bible studies, crafts, and art, and they consistently engaged in community activities, smiling, and eager to share their knowledge with the younger generations. However, in Romania, elderly people are marginalized, forgotten, and usually isolated in rural areas. This issue pushed me to start the FLEX Alumni collaboration with Niciodata Singur.
One of the most memorable events was a Halloween celebration held on October 28, 2023, that brought together over a hundred participants, including members of Niciodata Singur, high school volunteers, and our team of 15 FLEX Alumni. Halloween, a holiday deeply rooted in American culture, provided the perfect opportunity to share our experiences and traditions with the elderly. We engaged in conversations about the spooky history of Halloween, the concept of trick-or-treating, and the creative costumes that people donned on this day. Together, we also carved and painted pumpkins, a classic Halloween tradition that transcended generations and brought smiles to all.
Following the success of the Halloween festivities, I, the FLEX Alumni involved, and members of Niciodata Singur gathered once again for a Thanksgiving event on November 23, 2023. While Thanksgiving may be an exclusively American holiday, we found a way to bridge the cultural gap. We explained the significance of this day, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and the act of giving thanks for our blessings. As we shared what we were grateful for, it was heartening to see roughly 50 elderly participants open up and express their own feelings of thankfulness. Together with three City Representatives, we prepared an American meal to embrace the joy of cooking and share a delicious feast.
What made these events truly special was not just the cultural exchange but the opportunity to connect on a personal level. The elderly individuals who gathered with us through Niciodata Singur were not merely recipients of our care; they became our friends. We spent time listening to their life stories, understanding the challenges they faced, and sharing our own experiences. Together, we became a close-knit community, offering mutual support and companionship.
Behind the scenes, the dedicated efforts of Cristina Stoica ’23, Ana Petcu ’23, and Armand Volentiru ’22, three exceptional City Representatives, played a crucial role in organizing and facilitating these events. They ensured that the elderly felt cherished and heard, fostering an atmosphere of inclusion and warmth.
Our involvement with Niciodata Singur offered us the invaluable opportunity to share American culture while supporting an often-overlooked group in society. The joy we experienced in their company was immeasurable, reminding us of the profound impact that simple acts of kindness and companionship can have on the lives of others.
Featured Alumni:
Cristina Stoica ‘23 (Videle, Romania, placed by Aspect in Joshua, TX)
Ana Petcu ‘23 (Bucharest, Romania, placed by World Link in West Des Moines, IA)
Armand Volentiru (Valea Mare, Romania, placed by World Link in Visalia, CA)
