Volunteer Opportunities

"I often wonder if my time here will make a difference? When I think this I am reminded of the story of the boy who walks a beach throwing stranded starfish back into the ocean. When a stranger questions his motives, he answers 'if it matters to one of them, it was worth the effort.'"
~ Judie Flaherty, Minnetonka, MN

"It always amazes me how in such a short time under intense situations, those who were once strangers are now like family." ~ Natalie Hawkins, Parker, CO

"We arrived two weeks ago, individuals with varied goals and I can say that we have made a difference. We really did not know what to expect; And I, for one, asked myself repeatedly that first day, 'How will I ever be able to stay here for three weeks?' I'm sure (in a few days) I will be asking myself, 'How can I leave?" ~ Anne DiGiovanna, NY

"These children are going to grow up to be the teachers and governors and the police of their country. They're going to live in and have an impact on the same world my grandchildren will have to live in. I want that world to be a good world. Some told me that I would have done more good by sending the money I spent on the trip directly to that hospital. I don't think much of it would have filtered down to the children who needed it most. But I do think those kids will remember for the rest of their lives that they were hugged." ~ Barbara Organ, Toronto, Ontario

"I was able to witness that lives are being changed and positively enhanced through the continuation of all these various efforts. Yes, every bit of help does make a difference."
~ Melissa Clarke, St. Paul, MN

''My day at the school consists of five classes, each having four to seven students, grades six through 12. They file into my room, each with smiling face and a greeting: 'Hello,' 'Hi,' 'How are you?' It's like someone turns on a switch and their youthful enthusiasm and energy light up the room. Now the conversation begins nonstop for 50 minutes. The topics they choose to discuss are intelligent, inquisitive and meaningful. Subjects like politics - 'George W, did you vote for him? Why?' We discuss music, family, the Microsoft breakup, careers - you name it. We even do crossword puzzles - amazing! Someone once said, 'A mind is a terrible thing to waste.' I can assure you these kids won't waste theirs.'' ~ Chuck Drews, Barrington, IL

The daily changes I see in the infants and the eagerness of the high school students to join our lessons at school are lights that will shine the rest of our lives. Mihaela shared with me the tale of the twins who insist on studying English in their afternoons instead of heading to the basketball court, in order to be better able to communicate with their new-found friends. ~ Kathy Chapple, Walnut Creek, CA