My trip to Stairway was nothing like I could have imagined, and it has now left me with the question. How can I do more for others? Because of the connection between Stairway and Rødkilde, my class and I had the incredible opportunity to visit Stairway to see and learn what it truly is and what they work for.
We had learned about Stairway before our departure and knew on a surface level what Stairway was about. But in reality, they do so much more than we ever expected. Stairway is not just a children’s home for boys; it is frankly more like a foster family. Because that’s what they are: a family helping each other like brothers and sisters. A community striving for a better life and mentality, working to raise awareness of children’s rights. What we realized is that Stairway is not only a children’s home, it is a whole organization pursuing much more. They are spreading environmental awareness, teaching about nature and how to restore it. They are showing families that their children have the right to education and food, all while fighting against poverty. They are truly making a difference in the world and making it a better place.
Our trip to Stairway was long, but the moment we landed at the airport, we were immerged by a completely different culture. As we stepped outside and drove through the city, we saw poverty like I had never experienced before. Small children roamed the streets at night, begging for food. They had no roof over their heads, living among trash and trying to gain attention from anyone passing by. Upon arriving at Stairway, we quickly realized that the atmosphere there was entirely different. Happy, healthy boys greeted us, eager to help us right away, a huge contrast to what we had experienced the day before. The boys were so excited to show us around and invite us to sit with them for lunch.
When we arrived, we were divided into element groups, each of us paired with a buddy and assigned to a group. This structure allowed us to learn from each other and bond with the boys. My group, in particular, enjoyed spending time around the tables during meals. The boys loved learning Danish, and we loved learning how to make bracelets, a skill they were amazing at. The boys were incredibly creative, making crafts and performing. Throughout the week, I had many new experiences and participated in various activities with the boys. We tried new foods and experienced a new culture. We learned about the boys and the importance of raising awareness about children’s rights.
We got to drive around the island of Mindoro in Stairway’s Jeepneys. We met people and visited places influenced by the Stairway organization. We spoke with local high school girls, who helped us put our own school experiences into perspective. We also visited the town of Ambang, which is centuries behind in development. Children have to carry their siblings over rivers, just to get them to school. We took the hike once, but I could not imagine doing it every day. However, when we arrived at the school, we were welcomed by the most hospitable people, greeting us with fresh coconuts, something we could only dream of having at our school.
These experiences made me realize how significant Stairway’s impact is on the Philippines. It was one of the most humbling and eye-opening experiences I have ever had, and I am incredibly grateful to have witnessed it.
The Stairway family home is a community and a gathering place for the organization. During my time there, I discovered my creative side, making bracelets, soap, and mosaics. We watched theatrical plays performed by the boys, teaching us through acting, singing, and dancing about the world and how to change it, all with a delightful Dr. Seuss twist. These boys are truly incredible people who are much more than just their stories. Their pasts do not define them; instead, it is their optimistic and joyful approach to life that truly shapes who they are.
I am incredibly grateful to have experienced being at Stairway and learning how to make a genuine difference in the world. The boys and staff have taught us so much and have given me a new perspective on life.
By Filippa Høgh Eriksen, 2.e, Rødkilde Gymnasium