By Mercedes Henderson | Executive Director
As we finish off the first cycle of Life Skills program !Soy Independiente!, it is a perfect time to both reflect on the success of the last three months and look forward to an exciting future.
Since implementing the Life Skills workshops six months ago, we have had meetings with 14 partner organizations to share thoughts and opinions on the program’s progress. In general, our partners see the program as very beneficial for supporting Santiago youth at social risk in their transition to independent living. We have already seen positive changes in the outlooks and day-to-day interactions of the workshop participants. We also received praise for the project as a whole for being well-organized and structured.
“I want to thank this project because I feel that the young participants learn to envision their life beyond the day-to-day life of the children’s home.” (Social Worker, Partner Organization)
While the Life Skills program is designed to be replicated in schools, community centers and other social intervention organizations, there is room for further growth and development. To help develop the program, click here or sign up to give a monthly donation.
In September, our new class of seven volunteers arrived in Santiago from all corners of the world. We welcomed them with two weeks of orientation filled with fun activities and workshops. Our volunteers received professional training on how to build lesson plans as well as an introduction to Chilean culture, history, health, safety and more.
“Coming to South America to volunteer was something that I’d wanted to do for a long time...When I found out about VE I was sold! I loved the transparency and support from the community.” (Francesca, September 2016 Volunteer)
“I’m on my gap year before medical school and wanted to volunteer in Chile. I hope to gain understanding of people from various backgrounds and develop friendships with the children. I think this experience will be very useful for me in my future work.” (QeeQee, September 2016 Volunteer)
“From the very first day, I was impressed with VE Global’s two-week orientation process. Their commitment to developing their newest team members through transparency, honesty, availability and open conversation made me feel immediately comfortable.” (Bella, September 2016 Development and Communications Intern)
Much like our Life Skills program, we continue to develop our volunteer orientation with sensitivity to feedback from the participants and community members. We look forward to welcoming our next class of volunteers and interns next year!
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By Mercedes Henderson | Executive Director
By Josh Pilz | Executive Director
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