“If we are to make poverty history, we must have the active participation of States, civil society and the private sector, as well as individual volunteers. If our hopes of building a better and safer world are to become more than wishful thinking, we will need the engagement of volunteers more than ever.”Donating your time, energy and skills are important in a civil society, especially when it's in the form of volunteering. While I am no expert on volunteering, it seems to me that its a valuable opportunity. One in which an exchange of cultural views and beliefs, ways of thinking, and information are freely exchange amongst those involved. In short: Education.
- KOFI ANNAN, UN SECRETARY GENERAL 1997–2006
Why am I doing it? For exactly the reasons above and more importantly because I want to be part of positive change in this world. Be it helping out companies in the Alternative Energy or within the society.
I've had great experiences and have learn a great deal from my volunteer experiences. Be it as a volunteer snowboard instructor with VASS or with organizations such as the VEF and the GreenTech Exchange.
Obviously, this placement is a much larger commitment, than a couple of hours a week snowboarding down the slopes of Grouse Mountain! It's an opportunity to be on the ground and involved in international development, especially within the area of education. A long time ago I used to think that technology would provide the solutions for our problems. I've since learned that while it's good to have useful technology around, it's ultimately the choice of society as to use it or not. That's where education comes in, and I want to learn more about that process ... it's all about sharing and exchanging information as succinctly presented in the following Cuso International ad.
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