Security guard. Chef. Fashion consultant. Janitor. Nanny. Therapist. Translator. Manager.
What do all of these jobs have in common?
They’re the many hats I have worn in my nearly 2 months as a full-time volunteer with FM4 Paso Libre. Of course, I am not professionally qualified for any of these roles — at least not to the best of my knowledge. However, I was asked to lead a daytime shift for the first time this week, and it helped me realize just how multifaceted this work is. As humans, we have a vast range of needs, but migration typically augments those needs, meaning volunteers and staff must be jacks of all trades, ready and willing to adjust to new situations at the drop of a hat. FM4 seeks to give comprehensive, dignifying support to migrants and refugees; although we have experts in law, counseling, medicine, and several other areas on staff, every person on the team must understand how their piece fits into the puzzle.
While my time in the shelter has been quite eventful, I have also been enjoying fellowship with the other full-time volunteers. We are all passionate young adults, so there’s never a dull moment. This past weekend, we had a training where we walked the train tracks that run through the city. These are the tracks that immigrants follow as they traverse Mexico — the very tracks that inspired me to continue working in the realm of immigrant and refugee rights. The trip was somehow harrowing and inspiring. Seeing firsthand the path that is simultaneously a symbol of hope and a threat to the safety of all who dare follow it nearly brought me to tears. In the shelter, our scope is so limited. Often, we forget to genuinely consider where migrants come from and the journey ahead.
Between the extra work trainings and meetings, I’ve still been making room for lots of fun. I played basketball for the first time in probably a decade with this year’s volunteer cohort (yes, I have videos, and no, I won’t be posting them in an act of self-preservation), explored two new parks, visited one of the most bustling (and impressively unregulated) markets in the city, and appreciated art at a local museum. Add to all that lots of good food, drinks, and dancing, and you’ve got a couple of busy weeks! The adventures don’t stop however, and the next one will finally be out of the city (think sand, sun, and waves), so stay tuned for those updates.
As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life, and the variety in my day-to-day experiences is perhaps the reason why my time in Guadalajara is flying by. However, I love being kept on my toes, and the unexpected is what keeps me coming back each morning with renewed motivation and energy. I’ll also take the opportunity to blame the unexpected for this late post — I promise I’ll try harder next time!
Hasta entonces,
Benito
P.S. HAPPY MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Posing with this awesome crew of full-time volunteers! Together, we represent 4 different countries.
A view of the stretch where immigrants typically hop off the train after hours (or days) of nearly nonstop motion. Those coming to FM4 must walk about 2-3 hours, following the tracks north.
Another chaotic day in ropería! Luckily, we were blessed with some support from pyschology students from a local university.
A few works from the art museum I visited yesterday. I love spending a day as a tourist in Guadalajara!