SouLoop is a volunteer project about healing the inner child, building emotional connections, and creating a loop of kindness in the community. For this visit, our team went to an orphanage to bring both fun activities and a meaningful, hands-on environmental project. 

We began with light, happy games like Simon Says and Birds Back Nest to get everyone laughing and comfortable. The energy was amazing — it felt like we were all just a big group of friends hanging out. We also brought small gifts for the children to make the start of the day extra special. 

Before leaving, we shared little handmade wool teddy bears with the children. It was a simple gesture, but seeing their smiles made the whole day feel even more meaningful. 

At this orphanage, we didn’t just come to “teach” — I also sat down as if I were one of the kids in their class. I answered some of the questions right alongside them, and even helped the children nearby so they could win little teddy bear prizes. They kept thanking me, and the room was full of laughter and smiles. I even raised my hand to answer one of my team’s questions, but of course, they didn’t call on me — which made everyone laugh even more. 

Since this wasn’t my first time, I was able to guide the kids through the paper-making process more smoothly and effectively. We tore up the used paper, blended it, and spread it out to dry. Just like before, we added seeds into the pulp, so the paper would one day grow into flowers or trees. Watching the kids get their hands wet and enjoy the process felt really rewarding. 

Since freshly made paper takes time to dry, we brought some pre-made seeded paper for the children to write their wishes on. Each child took a moment to think, write, and share their dreams — knowing that when they planted the paper, their hopes would “grow” alongside the flowers and trees. It was a touching sight to see them take the process to heart.

I worked on preparing the planting cups by poking holes in the bottom so water could drain and air could flow. Then I carried and opened the heavy soil bag, helping the kids scoop dirt into their cups. I sat with them as they carefully placed their seeded wish-paper inside the soil. Seeing how seriously they treated their little plants made me think of growth in a new way. One of the kids even had an RC car with them, which really stood out to me — and reminded me of the inspiration behind my Seed2Speed project. 

None of this would’ve worked without teamwork. Our group naturally formed stations in a circle, dividing the jobs and helping the kids step by step. Everyone knew what they had to do, and we supported each other to make sure the children had the best experience possible. After everything was done, we celebrated with milk tea together — a small but happy reward after a meaningful day.