We Need Each Other

Virtual Steps into Kibera

I embarked on my emotional journey to Kibera, Kenya, in the midst of a pandemic, via zoom and emails.  Already my mind was brimming with anticipation of what working with Crossing Thresholds (CT) could mean for me and my family's life.  Eventually the opportunity arose and my son, Sean, and I jumped at the chance. Nothing could have prepared us for the transformative experience that awaited us.

Embracing Vibrancy

When I crossed the threshold into the Kibera Slum for the first time, I was immediately struck by the vibrant energy of the place. The narrow, winding streets buzzed with life. People walked everywhere; motorbikes wove through the busy alleyways; and street vendors sold shoes, fruit, meats, and almost anything else you might imagine. Inside one of CT’s schools, children played on a new playground while men built a new school behind them. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, music and conversation. Despite the unimaginable challenges faced by the residents, there was a palpable sense of community and resilience. 

The Power of Gratitude

From the moment we arrived, it became clear that gratitude was a cornerstone of life in Kibera. The children and their teachers welcomed us with open arms and heartfelt smiles -- their hospitality a testament to their generous spirits. Despite having so little, they shared music, crafts, games and joy. It was humbling to witness their unwavering gratitude for the simplest of things—a warm meal, a place to sleep, a soccer ball, a kind word.

One of the most poignant moments of my trip was our final day when a soccer tournament had been set up between two Crossing Thresholds schools.  The US volunteers and school children sat together and made up the cheering section.  The collective joy unified us despite living worlds apart. While my mentee sat with her classmates cheering, I realized that I would need to keep this door of communication open after I returned home.  I somehow knew that we needed each other.  

Bridging Worlds

In Kibera, I learned that service is always a two-way street. While I came to give, I received so much more in return. My project on the ground was to paint a mural of the world with a bridge between Kibera and CT. The centerpiece of the mural is a bridge that arcs from Kibera to Crossing Thresholds, symbolizing unity, connection, and our shared destiny. 

Two of CT’s School Directors, Agnes and Isabel, taught me important lessons about resilience and hope. They showed me that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for gratitude and joy.  As I move forward, I carry with me treasured memories and lessons learned, forever grateful for those Kenyan women who taught me to see a BIGGER world.  


Jennifer Garvey
Crossing Thresholds Fundraiser Coordinator and Trip Participant