With my white beard and my 58 years, I am certainly an atypical volunteer. In addition, I know Senegal pretty well; having been in Saint Louis two times previously; I consider this bright, touristy and safe city my favorite city in Africa. I knew that one could live well in this city by the river and the sea, which has inspired so many artists. I was there in 1986 for three months as an economics student, carrying out a study on the local handicraft business. However, back in Saint Louis in 2007, I felt too far from reality; I did not know Maison de la Gare yet.

When I discovered Maison de la Gare on the Internet, I was electrified … an opportunity to share African life and to discover its complex social and family reality. I already knew from my experience that I can not change lives in Senegal during my always-too-short stays. However, perhaps I could help a little bit and learn something that would be valuable in my own life.

Now back in Europe, I can say that this experience was very rewarding for me. I was deeply moved by the boys' joy in the small things offered by this peaceful center near the former Saint Louis train station. A bench to rest on, running water to wash, a book in the library even if you can’t read. This absolute will of the small talibé children to attack life. Their existential hunger for a smile, for a football, for a nutritious sandwich before leaving for the night in the street.

Maison de la Gare’s staff members were incredibly open in letting me share in their work at the center. Always, someone to talk to, to ask, to discuss. I was able to discover my latent abilities, too often hidden in Europe: storyteller, football referee, teacher, trainer, even dancer. Anyone of goodwill can find their place.

In addition, I found real friends. Thank you Diodio, Issa, Lala, Noël, Abdou, Aby, Rod and the rest of the team!

My advice for volunteers - Choose to stay in a host family. It is around a pot of thiéboudienne that one discovers the soul of Senegal. And you must go to the daaras and talk with the marabouts, to discover the often sad reality of these children's lives.

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Please click here to discover Christoph’s insightful article about his experiences in a very challenging daara. The article is illustrated with many photos from his volunteer experience.