“Whoever does not thank people does not thank Allah.” (Hadith, Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi)
The day is over, but your work is not quite finished. This section covers rest, thanks, handing over any money raised, telling the story and keeping the lessons alive.
The days after
Be gentle with everyone for a day or two. The girls and mums may be tired, stiff and a little emotional.
Suggest a good meal, plenty of water and an early night. Some muscles may ache, and that is normal.
Not every girl will say much at first. Let the day settle. Conversations often come later, in the car or at bedtime.
Within the week
Help the day finish well. Within a week, aim to:
- send a short thank-you message to all families;
- return lost property;
- follow up on any injury or worry noted on the day;
- pass on the money raised and keep the proof;
- file the registers, consent forms and risk assessments safely.
Keep the way you tell the story honest and respectful. Never suggest that the day equalled a refugee’s experience.
Handing over the money
If you raised money, pass it on promptly to the chosen cause. Keep the receipt or written confirmation.
Tell your supporters the total and what it will do. A short message is plenty, and trust grows when people see where the money went.
Two weeks later
Hold a short reflection gathering with the girls and, if you wish, the mums. Keep it informal, with something to eat.
You might:
- share photographs and a few memories;
- read out kind notes the girls or mums have written;
- ask what stayed with them most;
- agree one small, lasting action;
- thank everyone again.
Thank everyone
Say thank you to everyone who made the day possible. Name them, if you can. A handwritten note goes a long way.
Thank the instructors, drivers, helpers and anyone who donated food or prizes. Thank the families for trusting you, and for keeping the mums’ part quiet so well.
Keeping it alive
The shared experience can fade quickly unless it is gently kept alive. A few simple ideas can help:
- display a photograph and a short note at the madrasah;
- invite a refugee speaker or volunteer to visit;
- mark one day each term to remember the cause;
- let the girls write or speak about the day;
- pass on what you learned to the next group.
Ask the girls’ permission before using any photograph or story, and check it with their parents too.
Staying connected to the cause
One day of effort is a start. The cause deserves more.
Where you can, keep a link with the charity you supported. You might:
- give a small regular amount as a group;
- invite a representative to speak;
- collect clothes, books or food for local newcomers;
- volunteer together;
- keep praying for those who are still on the road.
May Allah accept our efforts and make us a means of ease for others. Ameen.