Inspiration from Students and Rotarians

Lodz is a city of reinvention and perseverance. It has overcome foreign occupation, the collapse of its textile manufacturing economy, and the horror of Nazi-imposed ghettos and death camps. Today, we learned about the small triumphs that are still occurring every day in this beautiful city.

We visited a school for physically and mentally disabled children and young adults. We were warmly greeted by the school's director and staff before being treated to a delightful student performance of "Puss in Boots". The enthusiasm and excitement that the kids exhibited during their performance was contagious - it was definitely the highlight of my day.

We were then taken on a tour of the student facilities. Some of the students are permanent residents of the school, while others spend part of their time at the school and part with their families. Despite somewhat limited resources and some recent cut-backs, the school provides medical care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, life management training, general education, and arts education. In addition to theatre, many students learn painting, woodworking, felting, cross-stitching, and other crafts. Some of the students have become such skilled artisans that their works are sold throughout Poland and the world. 

 

The school has been aided by Rotarians around the world. In addition to donations from Australia, the U.S. and elsewhere, Rotarians in Lodz have aided in purchasing mini-buses, a lawnmower and kitchen equipment for the schools. All of these items ensure that the students can learn additional skills, have the care they need and engage in their community.

The most heart-warming part of the experience for me was witnessing the obvious affection shared between the teachers, staff and students. The teachers were patient and encouraging. The students' faces would light up each time we walked into a room with the school's director. He demonstrated a deeply-felt sense of warmth and kindness and seemed to have a personal relationship with each one of the 126 students in his care. I was truly in awe of the students, staff and rotarians who made this school possible.

-Posted by Jessica