Coming Home

"The individual whose vision encompasses the whole world often feels nowhere so hedged in and out of touch with his surroundings as in his native land"  - Emma Goldman

It is now realised that re-entry shock is more severe than the shock of meeting a new culture for the first time.  It's important then to understand that the process of readjustment has a begining, a middle and an end.

"It's harder returning than preparing to leave" is an insightful and honest account of the return process by Jodie, a returnee who found solace in Comhlamhs' support services click here to read her article .

The Coming Home Book is a comprehensive guide to the process of coming home and is an invaluable resource for returned volunteers and development workers. It covers topics such as re-entry shock, health and well-being, getting involved back home, further studies and careers. Contact supportservices@comhlamh.org for a free hard copy.

If you returned home in the last year you may like to join us on a Coming Home Weekend. These weekends are held throughout the year in different locations for returned development workers and volunteers that have spent 3 months or more overseas.  

• Preparing for Coming Home
• Reverse Culture Shock

All returned development workers or volunteers who have spent 3 months or more overseas are entitled to 12 months free membership of Comhlámh. Members receive free copies of our publications, discount of courses and workshops, invitations to social events, a vote at our AGM and much more. To avail of your FREE membership please contact deirdre@comhlamh.org. More information on support services is available here.

• Special Reorientation Days
• Testimonials of Returned Development Workers, Humanitarian Workers, Missionaries and Volunteers

The Irish Catholic newspaper article, April 2008

Read the Irish Catholic article on Comhlamh's Coming Home Weekends 

Stay in touch with friends...

Comhlámh on Facebook 

An increasing number of people in the sector are finding it convenient to stay in contact with friends and contacts - here and overseas - as well as making new ones, via the social networking platform, Facebook. Comhlamh now has a presence (and a growing list of Friends) on this platform. If you wish to connect with us online at Facebook, please sign yourself up - it's free.