What inspired you to join the team at SKIP?
I originally came to SKIP as an Economic Development volunteer. I had starting learning about Microfinance and got really interested in this method as a tool for Economic Development. I decided to seek out a volunteer position to get some hands on experience and that’s when I found SKIP. The organization had a great reputation and I really admired the mission of the organization which focuses on the service users as the principal agents of change in their own lives.
Taking a lesson from our Skate leader at SKIP’s Skatepark
You began as an Economic Development volunteer and then a Volunteer Leader and Assistant Teacher. Can you tell us a little bit about each of these positions and the transition to where you are now as the Volunteer Coordinator?
In initial role as an Economic Development volunteer I worked with the families who applied for Microcredit loans—I talked them through the process, accepted payments, and did house visits to families who were behind on their payments. Every volunteer at SKIP also does a couple of shifts in education.
At first I was a bit nervous about this but quickly found that I loved teaching the kids. I worked in various roles with them such as an art teacher, the review class teacher, and English teacher. After a few months at SKIP a role opened up as a Volunteer Leader. This position required a nine month commitment to help give volunteers a chance to take a leadership role and work behind the scenes of the organization.
At that point I was definitely willing to commit to a long term position because I could see that I needed more time in order to be able to do a few projects that I had in mind. After my nine months, I left to travel around South America but when a position opened up for the Volunteer Coordinator, I jumped at the chance to come back and work with SKIP again.
With some other volunteers outside of SKIP
What is your favorite part of your job?
My absolute favorite part of the job is volunteer trainings. When volunteers first arrive, I welcome them into the organization and give them trainings on what to expect. I also lead biweekly volunteer reflection sessions where I work with the volunteers to go beyond the surface level of their time here and think deeply about poverty, service, cultural communication, and other related topics.
How do your own international experiences—including volunteering in Ecuador—influence your current work?
My previous volunteer experience allows me to better communicate with the volunteers and understand their view. Even though I am comfortable with the culture and language now, I can definitely still remember my first few months in Latin America and how overwhelming and exhausting those months could be. I also remember the trainings that were most helpful to me and which activities excited me the most. I try to channel these experiences into my work with the volunteers every day.
Why should individuals consider volunteering with SKIP?
SKIP offers a well rounded volunteer experience where volunteers can work in a few different areas such as psychology, art, sports, and economic development. It also allows volunteers an in depth experience in a local community that will give them insights into Peruvian culture. Lastly, it comes with housing, a group of other international and local volunteers, planned social events, training, and ongoing support.
Giving a training at one of our Volunteer Reflection sessions
What qualities make up your ideal SKIP volunteer?
The ideal SKIP volunteer is energetic and flexible. More than half of the battle is being excited and willing to put forth effort with the kids or families. It is hard to know what to expect before coming to a new experience—like volunteering in a different country. But maintaining a positive attitude and willingness to adapt to the needs of the organization, will always result in the best experience.
Why do you think volunteering abroad is a worthwhile experience?
Volunteering abroad completely changed my outlook on life. It has allowed me to understand the experience of others on a new level. It has also challenged me in ways that I could never have expected and helped me hone my skills in leadership, the Spanish language, teaching, public speaking, and others.
Dressed as an elf for our Christmas celebrations
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
I have done many different styles of travels over the years, and the experiences that have always been the most meaningful for me are when I have stopped for awhile and have taken the time to form relationships in a new place. When you do this, you go to places that aren’t on the typical tourist route and have conversations that go beyond the basic questions.
Why do you think it’s important for individuals to travel and experience new cultures?
I think a lot of hate comes from ignorance and fear of the unknown. By expanding our world view and forming meaningful relationships with people that are different from us, we can fill that gap of ignorance with understanding.
Are there any new volunteer projects or developments we can expect to see in the coming future?
We have year round volunteer programs and are always working on new projects throughout the year. In January/February this year we have our traditional Summer Club, and we are doing an Arts focus this year to try to bring in more music, dance, and theater in addition to our traditional art classes.
