4/21 Training Session

Today’s training session was very informal. Angela, the counselor from Neo Birth, had no objective but to check in with each of the OVC care workers. I am very impressed by how dedicated Neo Birth is to having close relationships with each care worker. The counselors from Neo Birth meet the care workers weekly to give them training, and the care workers must report to the Neo Birth counselors. The Neo Birth counselors put themselves on an equal level as the care workers. Today Angela brought sweeties for the meeting. She was very vocal about her appreciation for the care workers. She acknowledged how important and hard the care worker’s work is. Angela asked each one of them how they are doing. She knows what is going on in most of their lives. She asked for feedback from each of them about how they are handling their work and personal lives. Neo Birth brings donations to the OVC program for the children in need, but Angela always makes sure she gets the care workers the clothes and supplies they need for themselves and their families. Many of the care workers themselves are sick and living in poverty, and on top of it their job is very stressful and they receive incredibly low pay. These care workers are battling HIV on the front lines by working daily with orphaned and vulnerable children. I think it is very important for them to feel support and appreciation. Neo Birth does a very good job of providing this.