MISSION MEXICO
Catholic Campus Ministry
Altoona-Johnstown Diocese
"What would you tell others thinking about going on the Mission Mexico trip?"
Anthony
"As I think about the mass number of opportunities offered at Penn State, I come to realize how an organization and trip like Mission Mexico could be overlooked. This trip is not for the timid - it is for the bold. For those looking to take a true leap of faith, this is for you.
After serving as President of my fourth and (hopefully not) final year with the organization, I found it difficult to explain what to expect to get out of this trip. The impact made in peoples' lives - both in Tijuana and State College - is an indelible mark left on the heart that is only visible by those who take this worthwhile leap.
In recent years I've witnessed this impact come alive by way of alumni re-attending the trip, the formation of lifelong relationships that have triggered reunions in other foreign countries, and the breaking of language barriers through positive action, to name a few.
Even after actively supporting other successful philanthropic organizations at Penn State, nothing has shaped me into the person I am today more so than the fine group of faithful students that is Mission Mexico."
Maggie
“The kids at Casa Hogar de los Ninos have changed my outlook on life. After just a few short days, the kids become our family and such a special bond is formed. This experience has taught me how to live better and simpler, appreciate the opportunities and education I have had here in America, and has truly deepened my faith. I feel extremely blessed to have had the privilege to attend this trip the past two years and could not be more excited to see the kids’ smiles and hear their laughs again this year!”
Anthony
“Mission Mexico 2013 was hands down the most life changing experience I have had. From the moment we arrived at Casa Hogar de los Ninos until the second we left, I did not stop smiling and learning from the experiences of these children. It makes you appreciate the culture and situations of other people and is truly a real world experience.”
Travis
“This trip is 100% about the children and you understand this the minute you walk into the doors of that orphanage. Being with these children opened my eyes to a world of love and happiness outside of my own life. The friendships formed in that one short week are immortal and every moment of time we spend in Casa Hogar de los Niños is a blessing from God.”
Annelise
"The Mission Mexico trip to La Casa Hogar de Los Ninos is such a life changing experience. In a mere week these children manage to steal your heart and teach you how to look around and appreciate the small things in life. It's definitely one of the most memorable things that I've done while at Penn State."
Danielle
"You're so isolated in this little paradise. The only thing that matters is you, the kids, and making your mark on them in just a short week. I've never met such amazing people!"
Kelly
"My love of service and desire to try an alternative spring break trip led me to the go to Casa Hogar de Los Ninos for the first time my freshman year. I was expecting to help the children there of course, and do whatever we could to change their lives for the better. I found, however that the children made an even greater impact on me than I could have ever imagined and they have changed the way that I live my life. Their energy, smiles, hugs, and infectious laughs continue to inspire me to look at every day in a positive light and appreciate all of life’s gifts."