Be The Change

Be The Change – Episode #34 This week’s episode gives us a glimpse into the life of infants and toddlers as we explore how early interactions can shape their future. In the first of what we hope will be many conversations, we tap into the wisdom of a professional organization working to shape the lives of young children, ZERO TO THREE. In part one of a two-part series focused on early interactions, Rebecca Parlakian, one of ZERO TO THREE’s resident experts, takes us on a journey to explore how the critical first three years of a child’s life can shape their future and how those interactions play a huge role in the child’s long-term success. Rebecca and our host discuss the importance of the small actions and the role of parents and others who care for infants and toddlers in a child’s development.

Be The Change – Episode #33 This episode is a glimpse into a "day in the life" of a Global Volunteer in Crete - from the perspective of a volunteer teacher and the Greek team leader who guides her team. Greece Country Manager Sam Pinakoulaki first describes the team's daily schedule at a typical Greek English language "camp."  After a hearty breakfast together, we have a short team meeting and we walk through the vineyard to school, says Sam.  After three hours of teaching conversational English, the volunteers join an hour of independent sports together with the students. The team returns to the hotel for an afternoon lunch, and to prepare for the next day's classes (and to keep the lessons fresh for challenging young students). The volunteers are integrated into every part of daily life, says Peggy. That means sharing meals and conversation with their students day and night.  "Family and food, and sitting down and breaking bread is a really important part of their life."  For the two weeks of camp, she says, the students and volunteers are a special family. The relationships cultivated over two intense weeks keeps volunteers returning year after year.  Julia points to another volunteer who's served seven consecutive years.  The care and precision in preparing her lessons illuminates the love and kindness she feels toward the students she's come to know.  "It was incredible.  She took a taxi, came back with bags and bags of supplies to make bird feeders with her students.  I was amazed at her level of commitment."   Episode storytellers: Samantha, Peggy & Julia  

Hope = Action – Episode #32 This week’s episode takes us into the new year filled with thoughts of hope. Each of our four featured storytellers looks at cultivating hope through action, from a slightly different angle. Peggy and her family had a year loaded with personal challenges so large that she felt as though the fabric of her family was ripping away. Peggy, her husband, and their children found hope while working together, teaching conversational English in Greece. Peggy believes that serving as a family facilitated healing and restored a balance in a unique and lasting way. Abby, a photographer took her camera to Tanzania this past fall and found hope in the eyes, heart, and spirit of a community. The desire to pass her love for travel and service on to her children is so strong for Julia that her 13th birthday present to each of them was a trip that centered on service. Julia sees hope for the future through what she shares with her children. Mary has been on service programs to China multiple times. With changes in the political climate in the US, Mary worried about how she, as an American, would be viewed. She found hope for the future in her positive interactions with teachers in China.   Episode storytellers: Peggy, Abby, Julia & Mary

#31 – Why Give? What are the advantages of donating to organizations doing work outside the United States? How important are financial contributions in the long-run? Some people may question if and how their own donations ultimately have an impact. Global Volunteers co-founders Michele Gran and Bud Philbrook, who married in 1979 and conceived the idea for Global Volunteers on their honeymoon in Guatemala, share facts and opinions about how contributions to their organization advances projects for at-risk children and families worldwide.   Episode storytellers: Bud and Michele

Unexpected Transformations – Episode #30 This week's podcast is highly personal and reflective - as our storytellers share how they've been changed since re-entering their daily lives after their volunteering experience. Julia says she was transformed on the Blackfeet Reservation at a Sweat Lodge ceremony. "I almost see myself as who I was before the Sweat and who I am after.  I felt such a profound sense of connection to not only the locals, but to all of humanity.  It was powerful, really powerful." Kate was "ready to pack up and join the Peace Corps,"after serving in Mexico and Ecuador, saying she struggled with how to employ her insights from volunteering. "How was I going to continue this shift in my life, knowing that leaving for two-and-a-half years wasn't an option?" So, she made a shift in her career to satisfy her craving for more meaning. Volunteering with his sons in Tanzania was transformational, Tom said, because "seeing (them) grow and display their values, working in the orphanage in a philanthropic way" was one of his singular, proudest moments outside of daily life. Gabe said months later now after his program, he has a profound sense of "needing to make the world better." In his busy life, he misses opportunities to help people.  "I think, holy smokes, I'm so lucky. Through volunteering, you kinda get disrupted (in a good way)." Marek offers a very long view - that of a host for volunteers who sees their impact on Polish students over more than 20 years. "These young people are the leaders; the future of our country.  They are the second or third generation of people who learned English from Global Volunteers." Year after year, he says, volunteers transform his community in unmeasurable ways. Everyone has a moment of transformation when serving others whole-heartedly.  It takes risk, and it might not be evident immediately, but this shift is surely to catch up with you during moments of deep reflection.  It's healing, and it's lasting. Episode storytellers: Julia, Kate, Tom, Gabe, and Marek

Life-Saving Action – Episode #29 In many developing communities worldwide, even the barest resources to protect health and welfare may be outside a family's budget.  But, we know that a commodity as common as soap can and does prevent up to 80 percent of infectious diseases.  The practice of washing with soap and water is more than 300 times as effective as any single immunization! Emily, today's storyteller, explains the urgent, critical need for immediate action - to save children's lives in our partner communities and worldwide.  In Tanzania, we're demonstrating how volunteers are helping to change a simple habit, and change lives - forever.   Episode storyteller: Emily

Students' Passion for Service – Episode #28 Tristen's service-learning experience in the Cook Islands gave him a new understanding about how service catalyzes understanding.  "Every kid I worked with really touched my heart in a different way," he reflected. His story about a pick-up game of basketball underscores his point. Hadley's service program was her first international trip. She said she was immersed in the Ecuadorian culture deeper than she had expected.  She can't imagine a better way for students to get to know a country.  "You get to see so much...I like that alot!" Micah lists a number of lessons - about the local culture as well as service on a volunteer team.  His enthusiasm will encourage you! Mindy speaks from a professor's perspective: The reciprocity of a well-managed volunteer service program ensures that students receive as much as they give. It gives them a "taste" for the impact they can have throughout their adult lives.   Episode storytellers: Tristen, Hadley, Micah, and Mindy

Leave Your Mark on the World – Episode #27 One person's volunteer service has the potential for touching hundreds of lives. Every day, we impact others in ways we may not even be aware of.  The storytellers in this episode describe the joy of expanding their reach into new dimensions of service. Each of these unique experiences are also shared experiences that reveal how humanity is connected through acts of care and respect. As a college instructor, Mindy takes seriously the expansive perspective that shapes her students' career and life choices.  For them, traveling outside of their region of the country - let alone internationally - is a completely new experience.  In refining their global concept, Mindy says, they learn that "the world isn't just us and them." Joan says: "I've done volunteer work before, but this was special in...getting to know people's lives, because it was much more focused on projects." Chemida, Global Volunteers Country Manager in St. Lucia, describes local people's lives are enriched through meaningful contact with volunteers from other countries and different cultures. She believes the "human connection" is the most long-lasting mark that volunteers can leave on the world. Lynn talks about how serving with Global Volunteers has led her to additional service opportunities in her hometown...and how that has enabled her to influence her own community. Winnie is one of four Reaching Children's Potential Program caregivers in Tanzania.  She offers the perspective of villagers in rural Africa whom she meets in her outreach work to mothers and children.  Transformation occurs, she says, through one-to-one contact, and by offering assistance in practical, respectful ways. Episode storytellers: Mindy, Joan, Chemida, Lynn, and Winnie

Philosophy of Peace Waging – Episode #26 This episode is a retrospective by our host, Ruth, and four storytellers on how Global Volunteers' Philosophy of Service is a philosophy of waging peace, promoting justice and working hand-in-hand with local people. Carol lends an academic perspective by reminding us that colonialism was the historical mindset by dominant cultures, and helping others in useful ways is a very recent orientation to the world. The roots of childhood stunting, which Global Volunteers addresses in Tanzania, can be traced to generations of failed government policies. We can "right the wrongs" she says, by applying ourselves to the real needs of the community. Cynthia was struck by the realization that the value of relationships on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation transcends other measurable outcomes, and is at the center of Global Volunteers' Philosophy of Service. Maggie speaks to how cultural sharing is foundational to every volunteer's successful contribution at the volunteer work site. Emily's assignment in Tanzania was building and demonstrating effective hand-washing stations.  In-country partnerships, she says, works only when sincere relationships are built first.  After that, true long-lasting service can be rendered to the community. Episode storytellers: Carol, Cynthia, Maggie, and Emily

Be The Change – Episode #25 In honor of International Day of Peace, designated by the United Nations annually on September 21, this episode features peace wagers we've heard from in earlier episodes, and new ones from around the world. Global Volunteers' volunteers and staff reflect on what true world peace means to them, and how they've experienced peace waging by working together with others.  What does peace mean to you?   Episode Storytellers: Gila, Mindy, Jeff, Chemida, Carol, Samantha, Dan, Robi, and Michele

Be The Change – Episode #24 This episode is dedicated to the stories of volunteers and staff who have contributed to Global Volunteers' Reaching Children's Potential program (RCP) in Tanzania.  It's a demonstration program to address childhood stunting - and the effectiveness of short-term volunteers in helping halt this disastrous affliction. What does it take, to take on such an expansive goal? Carol explains, from the informed perspective of a professor of anthropology, that a careful, respectful, and deliberate approach ensures a true partnership at every level. Hers is an important introduction to the personal reflections on service that follow. Lisa, another college professor, says her experience is that RCP is effective because of its focus on a very specific outcome through very specific interventions.  Families' lives are forever improved, she says, because volunteers are able to contribute to projects addressing "every aspect of the first few years of a child's life." Tim says the opportunity to be part of a program on the ground level to actually challenge the conditions causing childhood stunting "is fascinating."  He was empowered to make a real difference working with preschool children who still have their futures to learn and grow. Finally, Anna, Global Volunteers' Tanzanian team leader, expresses her hope for the program - the families and volunteers together - is to see children grow and thrive to become "great people."  She says she expects that as the program expands, some of these children, whom she's working with today, will become presidents, teachers, and others who have lasting impact on her country. Episode Storytellers: Carol, Lisa, Tim, and Anna 

Be The Change – Episode #23 Where there's a dreamer, there's a way! These storytellers from all walks of life benefited from unique ways to help fund their service programs - and found that the challenge of earning the privilege to serve made the experience that much sweeter! Tristen, a high-school senior, received a service-learning scholarship from a generous couple who enabled him to live his commitment - to travel to help others. His motivation will surely inspire you! Gabe's employer encouraged him to take a journey of service and discovery on the Blackfeet Reservation. And although he volunteered without this financial support, knowing his contribution was recognized and appreciated further increased his respect for his company. Sarah represents a company that believes whole-heartedly in enabling their employees to give back to others around the world. Nine employee teams over five years have served with Global volunteers this way.  Sarah says their staff volunteers call the experience "life changing." Amy enlisted her daughter to help her set up a social media strategy to crowd-fund her service program. She found a generosity and support among her friends and colleagues she couldn't have expected! Episode Storytellers: Tristen, Gabe, Sarah, and Amy  

Be The Change – Episode #22 This episode takes us to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Northwest Montana - in the shadow of the great Rocky Mountains.  Once part of the land that now cradles Glacier National Park, to most visitors, this sovereign nation is but a "pass through" on the road.  But, a closer look reveals a spirit that's as majestic as the mountains themselves.  Reservation volunteers take the time to learn about the traditions, history and heart of the reservation - directly from those who live, work and struggle there. Our storytellers define the line between what we think we know, and what we are privileged to learn, about Native Americans. Global Volunteers Co-founder Michele Gran provides a context - and sense of place - for this episode's storytellers.  "I'm always energized when I go to the reservation," she says.  "We work with the leaders, and the seekers, and the visionaries, and the doers in the community.  And it's nothing short of inspirational." "Everytime I'm there, I wonder what the United States would look like if we had adopted their ways instead of washing them," says Cindy Murray, a team leader.  They have a grace and elegance, as well as a history and culture, Cindy explains, that we all can learn from. International Operations Director Peter Kelly defines two of the service projects - supporting elders - that put volunteers in the midst of the day-to-day life on the reservation. You can expect cultural insights each day, at the work site or on the way to assignments.  Gabe, a volunteer, describes encountering a bald eagle - and the tradition of honoring this symbolic animal in the Blackfeet culture.   Episode storytellers: Peter, Gabe, Michele, and Cindy

Be The Change – Episode #21 We continue with our report from Ipalamwa, Tanzania.  Our host Ruth Curran brings us four unique interviews with team members who're experiencing rural African life for the first time.  We get to listen in while they explain what - and who - most impressed them about the character and magnetism of the community.  Please note - the ambient sounds and rough audio is due to the field recording - and brings you into the scene! Amy affirms the beauty of the children's voice in song outside the village church upon the team's arrival; it's incomparable to children's choirs in her hometown, she says.  The soulful music, emanating from deep within their hearts, anchored her fully within the spirit of the village. She knew immediately she was in a special place. Robi says a "series of small moments are huge" in grasping Ipalamwa residents' reality.  Visiting homes opened her eyes to the children's struggle with so few resources. Volunteers may indeed feel despair amidst hope when confronting these conditions: "You see the pride, you see the poverty, you see the hunger, you see the resourcefulness, you see the shy smiles... you really kind of see it all ." The expansiveness of the surroundings, the wildlife, and the village's natural beauty in contrast with families' lack of material assets was immediately striking for Kelly - emphasizing that wealth can be recognized within a community's people and culture, most of all. Captivated by the exquisite landscape and the vast and decorated sky, Dan declares:  "I sit here in awe of the natural beauty of the area, and the natural welcoming of the people.   It's hard not to fall in love with a place when it's beautiful and you're welcomed." Episode storytellers: Kelly, Amy, Robi, and Dan

Be The Change – Episode #20 It's a rare opportunity to get a glimpse into a day of on-site volunteers - while they serve on the other side of the world. It's even more special to hear their stories in the very moment the sights, sounds, and emotions swirl around them. This week, our host records our storytellers in the moment. We hear that fresh, pure perspective of their personal journey to Ipalamwa, a small village in the Iringa District of Tanzania. Each of them was a part of the first team introducing the Reaching Children’s Potential program, an integrated effort to eliminate stunting and increase the quality of life for families in this corner of the world. First, Stephanie, a high school English teacher, paints the picture of what it felt like to not just teach at the Secondary School but to also be accepted and welcomed by her students in a way that is both unfamiliar and gratifying. Grace helps us understand that often there is more to a story than meets the eye, and that by listening closely, the whole scene - and your perception of it - can change dramatically. Next, Amy describes the joy of holding a book for almost 100 kindergarteners - possibly giving them a first-time experience. Finally, we get a rare look back as Sarah reflects, a week after returning home, on a portion she wrote for the team journal while in Ipalamwa.  Her wistful tone and thoughtful words tell the whole story.   Episode storytellers: Sarah, Grace, Stephanie, and Amy

Be The Change – Episode #19 We know that things are rarely as they first seem.  It's natural to approach new experiences with expectations of how they might unfold.  But, if we're truly open-minded, our discoveries can be much greater than we first imagined. Our storytellers share how this dynamic works on volunteer programs, each with a personal view on taking a closer look. First, Cindy eloquently relates how volunteers who suspend their assumptions can enrich their volunteer experience. "Those are the people, when at the end of the week, have been moved - have been touched the most." Lisa says you might understand a need from your own limited experience, but a closer look often reveals another side. Her hard-hitting example may sound familiar to you. Being part of a volunteer team is how Julie and her daughters gained valuable perspective. Fast forward - they're still learning! Summing up, our Ecuador Country Manager, Maggie, recalls how a high-achieving team member was forced to consider how a simpler solution might be the best course.  This is a lesson for all of us! Episode storytellers: Cindy, Lisa, Julie, and Maggie

Be The Change – Episode #18 Carol, an anthropologist and university professor, relates how the experience of working with local people in a non-assumptive way has reframed her daily life in a positive way. "Just give me a translator and a stethoscope," Lisa said when she first landed on a Global Volunteers program. She quickly learned that she had to find her "inner teacher" to help make sense of the service give-and-take for those she served, and for herself. Jeff says the most important benefit he gains personally by working through Global Volunteers is the sense of accomplishment, visibly from day to day, and also on a "heart and soul" level. Providing direct service in Cuba captured Mike and Elisa's imagination in surprising ways, and they quickly learned how that experience lays the foundation for future inner reflection and motivation. Episode storytellers: Carol, Lisa, Jeff, Mike, and Elisa

Be The Change – Episode #17 Why do some volunteers return to serve the same community time after time - sometimes several years annually?  What have they discovered about how they can affect change? Our first story teller says a legacy of service brought her back to Tanzania. "You're part of a long chain of providing service and hope and community" says Lisa.  Two weeks of your life can have a profound, long-term impact, especially when you're part of a stream of volunteers returning year after year.  It's the continuity that makes the difference. Pam, who has led over 50 volunteer teams has personal experience witnessing the change in a community over time. "When you see what happens, the little, little bit that you do.  And the next person does a little bit, that's what it is." She says the work of leading Global Volunteers teams is repaid by experiencing the contributions every team makes. "What can a short-term volunteer do in just a couple weeks?" Jeff asks. It may not be obvious at first. He retells the story of Liliana and José in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba.  His answer may surprise you, but it's sure to encourage you. Mike, our final storyteller, offers a youthful perspective on this question. "We must be doing something right," he says.  "I can take the first step, and afterwards, someone else will come and carry on our work." It's a model he asserts should be followed by every volunteer effort. Episode storytellers: Lisa, Pam, Jeff, and Mike

Be The Change – Episode #16 Do you ever wonder about your place in the world? Sometimes, we have to take a leap of faith in to discover the true impact we can have. In this episode, our storytellers open up about the moments that brought this reality into focus.  And how it changed them. Pam tells us about being moved on her first team leading experience in Romania.  She realized how profoundly needy the children were; one baby in particular who had little physical tone or strength. When she returned three months later, she was astonished by the child's improvement in the meantime - through sustained volunteer care and love. Daniel talks about what happens AFTER a volunteer team leaves - from the perspective of one who lives inside the community served by Global Volunteers. "I do see the effect the volunteers have over the years.  The children see they keep coming and spend time with them." Daniel cites how in the children's home in Lima, the children refer to volunteers as "Hannah" because they remember how caring and attentive this special volunteer was, and the long-term feeling she left in their hearts. Ken beautifully capsulizes the pure and penetrating human connection possible, as a volunteer caring for a child with hydrocephalus. "He couldn't react much, but I played him a lot of Joan Baez and Grateful Dead on my Iphone. The first time I saw him he grabbed my heart." Jeff reflects on the realization that volunteers have throughout the world: "There's more to be seen...there's more to be taken in...  The people are anxious to become friends, and accept what you have to offer." That's how you experience the true heart and soul of a community. Episode storytellers: Pam, Daniel, Ken, and Jeff  

Be The Change – Episode #15 Being asked to stretch outside our comfort zones can be exhilarating and intimidating. The "can-do" spirit arising from a team of devoted volunteers can gently push individuals to apply themselves in unexpected new ways. Our storytellers report that contributing personal skills and talents in a new setting can feel like "flying high in service." Carol describes how, as a team leader, she helped community leaders engage volunteers in a wide variety of unplanned ways to maximize their contributions to children and families. Lynn recalls the highlight of her Cuba program was the opportunity to use some of her marketing skills to teach a Cuban tour operator how to sell his service to English-speaking tourists. Pam gained new skills she never thought she'd need - carrying rocks on her head for a mile from a riverbed to a road in Ipalamwa, Tanzania! Our new storyteller is a professional trainer. Donna explains how she provided business consulting to Chinese entrepreneurs in Xi'an. Episode storytellers: Carol, Lynn, Pam, and Donna

Be The Change – Episode #14 The most important question you can ask about your own volunteer service is: What impact do I hope to make? Global Volunteers’ co-founder Michele Gran and board member Carol Conzelman explain how to truly help others, wage peace, and promote justice directly and appropriately. The "magic happens," says Michele, "when you wholeheartedly serve others. You can be significant in ways you've never imagined." You can truly change the world! Episode storytellers: Carol and Michele

Be The Change – Episode #13 In this episode, our storytellers talk about the transformative power of person-to-person service within their relationships as couples. They express in different ways how service strengthened their bond by allowing them to witness how they each care for and learn from others. Greg is clear about the value he derives from teamwork with his wife, Marcia. "Serving together as a couple affirms our belief in each other...we work well together.  Just sitting across the room from her and teaching...I really enjoy watching her work with children." Carol and Dean have extended their love of volunteering to groups of friends and couples to join them on their service programs. Together, the added perspectives expand their experience and deepens their understanding of local people, the culture and the joy of service.  "When we came home, we could share the experience over and over and over," says Dean. Even the "hard" lessons enhance understanding between a couple. Barbara, a physician describes a time she and her husband, also a physician, examined children living in Quito's poverty.  "We had never worked together, and this was new for us. We learned something about each other's strengths and challenges." Visiting a family on the fringes was "eye-opening," she said. Witnessing the children's home life together was an important experience for them as a couple, Barbara says. Episode storytellers: Greg and Marcia, Carol and Dean, and Barbara

Be The Change – Episode #12 Service to others is at its core is a selfless act. So many unexpected gifts stream from this one act - reciprocal benefits to the giver and receiver. Our storytellers address this dynamic head-on, describing how giving and receiving the gift of service has changed their lives. It's important to understand the true meaning of "gift" in this context. A gift, by definition, is "something given voluntarily without expectation of payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or make a gesture of assistance; a present." Michele Gran, Global Volunteers co-founder, sets the focus of the conversation: "There's so much richness, knowledge, and innovation in the communities where we work," she says. Describing community leaders as "Some of the most intelligent, resourceful, gifted people I've ever met in my life," she continues; "It's here you can observe how people can accomplish so much with so little," and have so much to give volunteers. In describing a celebration in Ecuador, Barbara said the greatest gift - hands down - of that program for her husband and her together, was the gratitude, in the form of hugs and kisses from the children, that so clearly summed up the elevated mutual regard they had achieved through service. A retired couple, Marcia and Greg, say they revere the gifts of understanding and insight every host community has given them. "The love the people share with you....and learning about other cultures and religions is a great gift," says Greg. Marcia adds she's learned that yearning for basic needs the world over - safety for our families, clean water and good food, for example - is the gift inside our common humanity. Gila quickly adds: "You come back with so, so, so much more than you gave." Episode storytellers: Michele, Barbara, Marcia and Greg, and Gila

Be The Change – Episode #11 We continue our conversations with Cindy, Lynn and Jeff:  What service projects impacted them the most, and how did those efforts ripple out across the community?  Jeff helped build a wall in a poverty-stricken family's home, and through his work, obtained insight unavailable to tourists and "average" travelers to Cuba. Cindy recalls four volunteers from Maui on her team on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation who joined to connect with other indigenous Americans.  To highlight their own culture, the group of four performed a traditional dance for elders at an assisted living center. Lynn connected her English-language student, whose dream is to fly airplanes, with a retired airline pilot on her volunteer team- widening the young man's vision of future possibilities. Episode storytellers: Jeff, Cindy, and Lynn

Be The Change – Episode #10 Three volunteers tell their own personal stories about what compelled them to serve in Hanoi, Vietnam. Pam, a long-time Vietnam team leader, is drawn to a particular service project more than others - helping young blind adults learn English to improve their limited future career opportunities.  Her motivation is close to her heart - and her story will make you reflect on the pivotal role we can each play in others' lives. Julie was most impressed by how the Vietnamese she worked with, living in poverty, welcomed her with joy and acceptance. She says: "I never expected the graciousness and the warmth" emanating toward team members from the local people. She came to realize that in their richness of spirit, that "they had everything and I had nothing." Joe reads the journal of his service program roommate, John, a Vietnam veteran who returned to Vietnam for the first time since he left in 1970 during the war.  "I needed to see it first-hand," says John. "I came back to do something, however small, to help rebuild a developing country I helped to destroy; to show the Vietnamese that there are Americans who care about them; that there are veterans...who care." He continues:  "I'm going home knowing that the war in Vietnam, and the war in me, is finally over." Episode storytellers: Pam, Julie, and Joe

Be The Change – Episode #9 The world has gotten a lot "smaller" for most of us through technology, media and international tourism.  But, to truly achieve a global perspective, one must walk a more erstwhile path. It may sound contradictory, but often, slowing down can speed up learning. This episode explores the payback for taking time to reach out farther.  Giving back to the world in an intentional, relaxed way is a common draw for each of our storytellers.  The "call" for most Global Volunteers is to reach out farther - and demonstrate authentic care, intense interest, and an optimistic view of life. For Joe, the most compelling aspect of reaching out is the team dynamic around a common purpose.  He says "the most profound sense is... like you've known (team members) forever.  They're called to come together in this new place where you are." Mike says overcoming his introversion by "pushing on for two hours of small talk and conversion" through English lessons in Cuba created a comfortable commonality with a local surgeon - someone he was surprised to connect with. Tim talks about how Global Volunteers' Philosophy of Service enables individuals "promote positive change" among people who want and appreciate their support. This can bring a world divided to a place of understanding. Gila concludes: It's "life changing, life altering" to return with "so, so much more than you gave."  The urge is to take an inventory of your own life - and in the context of all you have, and all you have to give, to embrace the world wholeheartedly. Episode storytellers: Joe, Mike, Tim, and Gila

Be The Change – Episode Eight You might be surprised by all that awaits south of the U.S. border. Mexico is a magnetic tourist destination - but more, the country draws volunteers motivated to make a difference in the lives of young adults preparing for a productive career. Seen from a humanitarian perspective, the small, hospitable town Global Volunteers serves is an enclave of dreamers and strivers alike. Senior and student volunteers especially are passionate about teaching conversational English on university campuses. Experienced Mexico travelers are gratified to engage the colorful culture through eager students.  Those who haven’t travelled to Mexico before are charmed by historic Querétaro, a safe and engaging destination. As a volunteer team leader, Pam leads individuals of all ages and walks of life on two-week journeys of service to Querétaro, Mexico with Global Volunteers.  It's a passion she's cultivated for over 17 years.  In fact, most of her volunteers return year after year, simply for the pleasure of teaching university students under Pam's management. And, over these years, she's found a place in the hearts of those she and her teams serve.  One story, taking place at the airport, epitomizes the impact that "the Globals" have.  "I think you begin to see the spirit and the hope the people have," Pam says. Episode storyteller: Pam

Be The Change – Episode #7 Some of the greatest experiences in life occur when we let go of our pressing concerns and free our minds.  It's not easy to do - especially after you've paid thousands of dollars to travel to a new place to make a difference. But, experience tells us that both volunteers and local people benefit the most when they allow the natural rhythms of the service program to take over - and see the "magic" that occurs! In this episode, we listen to four storytellers describe experiences completely unique to them while serving others.  Cindy says "the opportunities to connect and volunteer alongside local people are so rich...there's nothing like getting to know someone," getting to know one another's families and finding common ground. Mike says unplugging from technology and daily life is unfamiliar at his age.  When he returned home, he missed this freedom from the business of life. The intensity of sharing a common goal brings about an intimacy that may not be possible without letting go of expectations. Elisa shares a moment when this became clear to her. Pam came to this realization, almost by accident on a beach. Without much further thought, she was on her way to Tanzania after deciding a "volunteer vacation" was what she longed for.  Despite her friends' and family's questions, she boldly set off for Ipalamwa - to unplug - and hasn't looked back! Episode storytellers: Cindy, Mike, Elisa, and Pam  

Be The Change – Episode #6 Sometimes, "going home" isn't literal.  Connections between people within families - or across oceans - is what makes us feel accepted and comfortable.  Traveling with an open mind and heart can bring us "home" in many parts of the world. Our first storyteller, Mike, brings a youthful perspective on the impact of making a connection on an alternative spring break.  "Everyone has all these stories," he says.  To be able to hear them first-hand is a privilege. Elisa, another student, builds on this concept, but adds a deeper layer.  She served, she said, to experience her mother's and grandparents' homeland from the "inside" - a richer experience than a tourist trip. Seeing her ancestral family's house closed the loop in better understanding her culture. Marek returns to illustrate how some volunteers become "family" in his community by teaching English. "This is a very important part of my life, not only for me, but for my children and my wife."  Many, many families have benefitted, he said. Sharing these skills transforms peoples' futures. Jeff sums up by explaining how making new friends through service was a balm after losing his wife to cancer.  In this way, the world became an important part of his extended family, and those communities now feel like "home" to him. Episode storytellers: Mike, Elisa, Marek, and Jeff

Be The Change – Episode #5 We might not always be aware of our expectations when they become integrated into our way of living life.  But, they certainly enhance or detract how we assess the lessons awaiting us. Our first storyteller, Gila, talks about serving in St. Lucia to celebrate a milestone birthday - "in honor and gratitude for her family."  To do so, she traveled with an open mind and heart to help teach mothers and their babies to relate better to each other.  She found that suspending her expectations provided her with "a perspective of gratitude" that helped her accomplish her goal for the trip! Lisa returns to explain how she employed a "beginner's mind" to approach each new experience - and allow the local students to guide her in sharing her teaching skills in the most productive way. Cindy relates one special time as she was preparing for her first Global Volunteers experience.  "I remember a sense of letting go," she said. "I was jumping into ambiguity." This, she says, is exhilarating, and brings her "to who I am at the core of being a person." Our Poland community partner, Marek Błaszczyk, reflects on the experience of hosting 3,000 volunteers over 26 years, and how these teams have "shifted the expectations" of all the people Global Volunteers serves in Siedlce, Poland.  The impact of "thousands and thousands of lessons and thousands of students" is difficult to believe, he says. "I think the most important part we get from them is to share the heart and the friendship." Episode storytellers: Gila, Lisa, Cindy, and Marek

Be The Change – Episode #4 Continuing with an inside look at local culture, three of our storytellers return to reflect on life from a new perspective. Each volunteer sites how Global Volunteers programs immerse them in daily life, exposing the true nature of a community. Lynn returns in this episode to describe the generosity of people in Crete who, although they owned little themselves, gave generosity to help Syrian refugees at a time when it was very unpopular to do so. "They said, we're going to help these people, because they're human, and it's the right thing to do." She enjoyed an equally engaging spirit of unity in Cuba, living with local people - and basking in their hospitality and genuine appreciation for the team's contributions. Evan continues her story about volunteering in Romania.  She notes the lasting impression that volunteers make in their host community:  "It's very much a relationship business," she says. The impact is obvious to local people, she continues:  "It breaks down the barriers.  They realize these people keep coming back...it sends a huge message of love, quite honestly." Jeff tells about how a community reciprocates on International Women's Day, as local people spontaneously poured out appreciation and fondness for the women volunteers on his team. "Once again, it was a sign that our Global Volunteers are so welcome in their community.  They were made to feel so special." Episode storytellers: Lynn, Evan, and Jeff  

Be The Change – Episode #3 In our third episode, each of our storytellers recalls one moment in service that they carry with them still today. These are singular perspectives gained in Cuba, Crete, Romania and Tanzania that turned their heads and made them think about how important one individual can be on a volunteer team. Our first storyteller is Jeff, who talks about service as a channel for understanding and friendship, and says one seemingly ordinary moment pulled it all together for him in a most extraordinary way. Lynn tells a touching story about helping a young, withdrawn student blossom by taking a personal interest in his musical skill.  The personal connection that resulted typifies the mutual benefit of genuine service. Caring for abandoned and disabled babies and toddlers has become Evan's calling. But, in a pediatric hospital ward in Romania, Evan said a breakthrough moment between an autistic child and a talented volunteer left her breathless. Lisa returns with a follow-up to her story in episode one.  In this episode, she recalls a moment that taught her how true communication occurs when we shed our own conventions and find a common language. Episode storytellers: Jeff, Lynn, Evan, and Lisa

Be The Change - Episode #2 Our second episode looks closely at the way a single moment - or a stream of moments can "flip the switch" in our minds  - leading to life-altering awareness.  "Why are people in America and Europe discovering a lot of things, and we're discovering nothing?" he asks.  "One volunteer brings a lot of change," he asserts. This episode begins with Kate, who describes the emerging consciousness that occurred on each of her service programs - beginning with a new perspective on a transition period in her own life, to "trying out things bite-sized" to help define what's waiting for her ahead. The second story is from Ken, who looks back over the first week of each of his service programs to see the ways his teammates "are really different people" than they were at the beginning of the program. Stephanie, our third guest is a self-described "go-getter" who learned that sometimes the best way to help is to go with the flow.  A great change in her personal "style" leads to surprising realizations! Don't miss our final story... Tim, a veteran volunteer, talks about a deeply personal experience he shares with a little girl of two years.  It may be the most unforgettable volunteer experience he's had on 14 service programs! Episode storytellers: Kate, Ken, Stephanie, and Tim

Be The Change - Episode #1 What happens when you take a risk and dive deeper into experiences, testing your boundaries or challenging your assumptions? We inaugurate this podcast series with the vision of our long-term host partner in Tanzania, Bishop Dr. Owdenberg Mdegella, and his open invitation to to help him serve his people in ways that might seem like a leap of faith.  "Why are people in America and Europe discovering a lot of things, and we're discovering nothing?" he asks suppositionally. What is missing in the equation that we can change together? "One volunteer brings a lot of change," he asserts.  It is his life's work, and our partnership with him for over three decades, that inspire us to share these stories of service. This episode begins with Lisa, who with her daughter Maya, pursues an ambition to "replace talking with doing" to help children who struggle, and returns home with a changed perspective of her role in Maya's developing world view. In our second story, Bishop Mdegella counsels us to change how we think about our own abilities to make permanent, real change in the lives of children. "Sometimes, you just have to jump," says Kenneth, our third storyteller.  After admitting to himself that his fear often stands in the way of personal growth, he decides to embrace this new experience and discovers he can truly make a difference in an unfamiliar setting.  Now, he says, he "thinks about all that I could have missed" with gratitude. Episode storytellers: Bishop Mdegella, Lisa, and Kenneth Music in this episode: Blue Dot Sessions & Podington Bear From the Free Music Archive CC BY NC