Youth Making a Difference

The Youth Making a Difference program, also known as YMAD, has just completed their fall expedition of 2014. The organization allows American teens to travel to India and teach children. The participants spend the entire year before the expedition preparing lessons for the children to learn many important lessons in the English language.

While the young adults are in India, they create incredible relationships with the underprivileged children they serve. Although the American teens are in India to teach the children, they learn many priceless lessons themselves.

“I discovered generosity, hospitality, kindness, and love while I was there. The people there are very welcoming and make you a part of their family,” Highland senior Brett Price said.

Price felt that a lot of work went into preparation for the expedition, but it was definitely worth it. It changed the way he views things, and was an overall humbling experience. Senior Alec Evans also experienced a change in perspective.

“It was surreal experiencing a completely different culture and witnessing high levels of poverty,” Evans said. “I learned that I need to be more grateful in my everyday life.”

For those interested in this opportunity, applications are available online for next year’s fall expedition and are due Jan. 24. Applications for the 2016 spring expedition will be available Jan. 1. After submitting an application, those applying must call to schedule an interview on Jan. 26, 27 or 28. They will later receive a call informing them whether or not they have been accepted to the program.

Being a part of the Youth Making a Difference Program involves a year of fundraising, retreats and planning to prepare for the expedition to India. However, there are incredible benefits for both participants and the children they serve.