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GYI 2008 at Des Moines (Iowa/USA)
– A Report from Nadine und Fenja
(Translated by Rainer E. Becker)
FF Varel participants at the Global Youth Institute
in Des Moines/Iowa (USA) from June 29th till July 18th, 2008
From left: Nadine Ahlers, Sarah Albrechts, Fenja Ahlers, David Kroll,
Lisa Langbehn
After 16 hours of flight we finally arrived at the
Des Moines Airport where we enjoyed a warm welcome by our host families
with reception posters. Right from the beginning everybody felt
comfortable in the families. During the three weeks programme we
did not only learn something about America, but we also have made
unique experiences and met international friends.
During the first days we were given the opportunity to get to know
each other better by various activities at the Luther College. In
addition the Country Reports excited our curiosity to learn about
the participating countries and their culture.
The following programme contained besides visits to the John Deere
Company Group, the Iowa State University, the Living History Farm
and others also some social involvement as for example in the clean
up after the flooding at Des Moines or with the serving of meals
for the homeless. Above that there were events like Football –
and Baseball Games, uncountable visits to Coffeeshops, and the huge
fireworks display on Independence Day and roasting Marshmellows
at a comfortable open campfire – which is a must when you visit
America.
Within two weeks every participant was tasked to develop a statement
of his country addressing this years’ topic of “Global
Migration: People, Products and Ideas” and developing a common
solution with a partner. The results were extensively discussed
at the “Assembly of Nations” with two politicians from
Des Moines who had been invited.
A special Highlight was the three day trip to Chicago. Besides excursions
and visits to various museums the view over the city at night from
the Sears Tower was most impressive. Of course we were also given
the opportunity to discover the city by ourselves.
The weekends were reserved for family activities. Whenever there
was some spare time in the afternoon we organized pyjama parties
or other common meetings. At one of the weekends we were given the
chance to attend a music festival. Any boredom was banned!
A photo of all GYI participants 2008 in front of the Mississippi
First contacts to get to know each other
A huge selection during the common meal at the Luther College
Sarah and Tom Forsgren test their limits
Lots of fun was offered at the Living History Farm on Independence
Day
Various countries – common interest
”The Bean“ in the Millenium Park at Chicago
Preparation of the meal for the homeless
Learning about the various cultures
The last common night with a large self made international buffet
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