I went north, home in Tualatin from Corvallis where I attend Oregon State University. I was worried about telling my parents that I was interested and really wanted to volunteer in Haiti over part of spring break. To my surprise, both of them had no objections to the idea. In fact, their supporting argument was that I am 19 years old and can make those decisions. I was thrilled! I really thought they would go into that “shelter John” spiel about all the reasons not to go. However, it’s pretty much up to me to get this arranged, to figure out the details, and to work it all out. I’m nervous, but very happy at the same time.
So, the next step is to research my options. There will be many volunteers from around our nation who will want to volunteer, and I need to make sure I get my name on the list. My time frame for volunteering is spring break – so near the end of March. The higher up the list my name is, I assume, the more likely I am to be selected and for during my available time off of school. I also need to find out which organization to go with. Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross, others? One other thought is to go through a church group, however I am currently no part of a church nor am I particularly religious in one way or another. Church volunteer groups are usually supported by funds the organization receives through donations and contributions – and they share that with members of their congregation. I am a nobody right now… And I must find a way in. I will also confer with my classmate who is seriously interested in traveling to Haiti over spring break. Maybe the two of us can figure out a plan.
