You’re a current staff member, but also participated in a volunteer program with ISV in Thailand. What about your experience volunteering abroad led you to want to work for ISV?
My experience volunteering in Thailand, stemmed my passion to want to make a positive difference in the world. Having a job that allows me to do this has always been my dream, and I feel very lucky to be part of such a passionate team of people at ISV.
Developing infrastructure for the community.
If you could attend another one of ISV’s programs which would you choose and why?
I would love to participate on our Costa Rica Program, volunteering with endangered sea turtles! I worked on a Community Development Program in Thailand, so this would be a great way for me to explore the conservation side of the ISV Program. Another appealing aspect of taking part in the Costa Rica Program is the opportunity to learn Spanish, you stay with a host family and get a first hand experience of the Costa Rican culture! Pura Vida!
You have a strong background in design, how do you use this in your marketing materials and promotion of ISV’s programs?
I love to get creative and use my design skills to promote positive change in our world. I have designed many different materials from brochures to web banners which help inform and inspire potential volunteers!
You’ve been with ISV for just shy of a year, what has been your biggest accomplishment in marketing during your first year?
My biggest accomplishment so far is being given the opportunity to travel to our head office in California! This was an incredible experience for me as I was able to receive further training, develop my marketing skills, and meet the global ISV team! I learned so much from my international colleagues, who all share my passion - of creating a better world.
What differentiates ISV’s volunteer programs from all the other volunteer programs out there?
The ISV program allows you to give back with two weeks of purposeful volunteer work such as helping underprivileged children or aiding an endangered species. Due to the educational aspect of our programs, you will also get to learn so much about the culture, customs, and wildlife. You’ll develop a new found connection with your host country that will change your life! Then you’ll go on to participate in two weeks of adrenaline filled activities. It’s likely you’ll experience more in these two weeks that most people do in a lifetime!
What are most important characteristics you look for in prospective volunteers?
The great thing about ISV is you don’t have to be well traveled to go on one of our incredible programs. We take care of your itinerary and safety concerns, so you can focus on making a difference, having fun, and learning how you can positively impact the world around you. If you fit the description of the last sentence - we want to speak to you!
What’s one piece of advice you would give to a volunteer headed abroad for the very first time?
It can definitely be daunting heading abroad for the first time, and the most common concern for participants is safety. We take safety very seriously at ISV, and have offices in every country we run programs, this means there will always be support for you no matter what happens! Therefore, focus on enjoying your trip. You’re going to have an incredible adventure, encounter compassion, and experience a wonderful new culture.
What’s the most fulfilling part of working for ISV?
Knowing I’m making a difference and working with a passionate team of people, who are all striving to create a positive impact on the world is definitely the most fulfilling part of working with ISV.
