Nanny Diaries, Uganda Style: Is There a Caregiver in Your Tribe That Needs Some R&R? by Tiffany Zook

On a recent trip to Uganda with International Voice of the Orphan, one project we planned during our time in Africa began before the plane even left Houston. Our team began collecting scarves, jewelry, lotions, purses – not a typical donation for say … orphans. That’s because these gifts were for the 45 nannies that provide round-the-clock care for special needs children at The Gem Foundation. 

Their days are tireless; feeding, diapering, bathing, dressing, teaching, laundering, cleaning and playing. Caring for the caregiver turned out to be one of the most impactful, inspiring parts of our trip. We threw a legendary tea party, played truth or dance, ate biscotti and marshmallows, and washed and massaged 45 pairs of feet! We even taught the nannies to play Guesstures. They loved the game so much, we almost had to hire a referee to announce the winning team! 

When you care for the caregiver, you provide precious commodities that money can’t buy – rest, revitalization, relaxation. At the end of the day, new friendships were the real winner, the bonds we made bridge the distance, though miles apart, still close at heart.