By: Joshua Schneider, MAPLE Volunteer
In January of 2020, I had the incredible experience of visiting and contributing to the Mapuche- Lafkunche community of the Malalhue-Chanko area, in the proximity of Lake Budi. My stay lasted a total of 10 days, during which I worked on specific projects upon the request of the family located in the area. The initiatives that took place during the length of my stay included the installation of an irrigation system in the greenhouse of Allipén, the plantation of murta trees in a local garden in Malalhue-Chanko, and the trimming of a variety of trees and overgrowth in the area.
Beyond work, I was able to explore the region, visiting various points of interest and even spending a night at the beach. Additionally, I had the lovely experience of staying with a local family for the extent of my week and a half in the territory. In the moments that we weren’t working or moving around, we were able to share wonderful stimulating conversations over some mate and sopaipillas. The Raín family didn’t just host me, they made me feel at home, assisting with any question or confusion that came up.
I will continue to hold close everything that I experienced, learned and shared during my stay in the Lake Budi region, always highlighting the uniqueness and intimacy of the opportunity that I was allowed. I highly recommend the MAPLE volunteer experience to anybody who looks to expand their horizons and learn a little more about the world.
