Staff Interview with Lori Comitale

What inspired you to start working for A Broader View (ABV)? 

I was inspired to start working with A Broader View because I really admire this organization and their ability to connect volunteers with areas that are in critical need, while at the same time giving the volunteers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and language of other countries. I think these programs allow the volunteers to learn their weaknesses and strengths and perhaps find their purpose in life. 

Describe your role as the Program Coordinator. 

As a Program Coordinator I work with the volunteers to assure that they have the required documentation for travel (visas, etc.) and any vaccinations that are needed. I work with the in-country coordinators to assure that the volunteers’ housing and program activities are confirmed and safe.

How do you support and prepare volunteers for their trips? 

We provide in depth guides of their trips, arrange transport to and from the airport, and we are available 24/7 to answer any questions or deal with emergencies that may arise—cancelled or missed flights, etc. 

What was your transition like from volunteer to employee with ABV?

This was a very easy transition.  ABV is a wonderful organization to work for and is very satisfying.

How have your own experiences volunteering influenced your current role?

I have been lucky enough to experience a few of ABV’s programs, including traveling to Honduras and Belize. It really opened my eyes to other cultures and gives me a better perspective when preparing volunteers on what to expect.

If you could participate in any ABV program, which would it be and why? 

I am a big animal lover. One day in the future I hope to be able to participate in one of the animal welfare programs. There are so many different ones to choose from, I wish I could do them all. 

You’ve been with ABV for around 10 years. What changes have you seen in the programs over the years, from the perspective of as a volunteer or an employee?

I have seen so much expansion into different countries and many additional programs created in all locations.  I have seen the amount of volunteers increase immensely, especially with large groups of medical students, dental students, nursing students.   We have also had many volunteers come back again and again to experience other ABV  programs. 

What qualities make an ideal volunteer?

Energy, flexibility, imagination and creativity, reliability and commitment, selflessness, passion, and being a team player. 

Why do you think it is important for people to travel and experience new cultures?

It's a big world out there and people live and behave differently. When you travel to another country, you can open your eyes to the beliefs and values other people and its influence on their everyday life. It's a humbling and character-building experience, and one that teaches you to appreciate what you have and also to respect those who live without every day. You also have the opportunity to learn new languages. 

What hopes do you have for the future of A Broader View programs?

My hope is that A Broader View continues to expand their programs in their existing locations and also into new countries.

What are some of the most common challenges volunteers face before/during/after their trips?

Some of the challenges volunteers face are homesickness, acclimation to a new environment, new foods, new climate, host families, communication with people that may not speak their language, staying within their budget, safety concerns, and trying to do too much within a small period of time.

I find that most volunteers express some level of anxiety before traveling. Like all of us, the fear of then unknown can be a bit daunting. Here at ABV we do our best to alleviate our participants’ worries before they travel. Aside from written guides, we offer advice about visas, passports, and vaccinations. We also provide insight into cultural difference of living in a foreign country, residing with local hosts, and preparing them for an easy transition in our program.

Since ABV has programs in 25 different locations so this is not a one size fits all answer. While most volunteers adapt quickly to their new surroundings we have seen volunteers struggle with their language skills, with the slower pace of life, and at times with homesickness. For some volunteers returning home it can be difficult re-adjusting to their lives, their daily schedule, and most especially their guilt—some volunteers tell us it is extremely difficult dealing with the feeling of not having done enough.

What does meaningful travel mean to you?

To me, meaningful travel is travel which enriches your life in some way, such as discovering and learning new things about the world and yourself. It can also be making the lives richer for the people you meet, the communities you visit, and the environments you explore. The more you learn about the world and other cultures the more it enriches your life.  The more you give back, the more you feel fulfilled. When volunteering or helping others, you expect nothing in return, but it ends up giving you so much.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is hearing feedback from the volunteers and how this experience changed their lives.

Why should someone choose to volunteer with ABV over other volunteer program providers?

I am biased, however I believe A Broader View's charity focus sets us apart from other program providers.  ABV has proven to be a very efficient, affordable, and safe organization since its inception.  We offer customized programs and both long-term and short-term placements.  The volunteer gets to pick their own start and end dates and travel when it is convenient for them.