People Who Makes a Difference

Volunteer:  Andre Merg
Country:  USA
Age:  24
Project:  Community Program in the Jungle

1.- WHY DID YOU WANT TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD?
I wanted to volunteer abroad to improve my fluency in a foreign language, to be immersed in a new culture, to learn more about myself and the way of life of other people outside the U.S, but most of all to have the opportunity to help and serve those that don't have as many resources and are in need of help.

2.- WHY DID YOU CHOOSE ECUADOR VOLUNTEER?
I chose Ecuador Volunteer because I found it through the internet, and when I sent out emails, Ecuador Volunteer responded quickly and were very welcoming. I also was interested in the projects and how immersed the volunteers are in the everyday lives of the people. I wanted to actually be living among the natives and be fully immersed in their way of life.

3.- WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE?
My favorite part of the experience was by far building lasting and memorable relationships with the people there. The people truly accepted you and you became part of the family and community.

4.- DESCRIBE YOUR PLACEMENT EXPERIENCE.
My placement experience was definitely a culture shock at first as the living arrangements were far lower than that in the US but that is what I really wanted. The family provided everything I needed and the food was great.

5.- WHAT DID YOU LEARN ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FROM VOLUNTEERING?
I learned much from the community. I have never seen a community be so strong and supportive of everyone that is a part of it. It is really more like a big family the way the community looks out for everyone. Definitely learned the importance of serving those in need and loving your neighbors....through the love and support the community often showed.

6.- OF ALL OF THE CULTURAL & LEARNING ACTIVITIES, WHICH WAS YOUR FAVORITE?
Interacting with the children through games, teaching, and forming relationships with the people of the community.

7.- WHAT, IF ANYTHING, DID YOU GAIN FROM THE EXPERIENCE?
Gained a new perspective on life. Realized the strength of families and friends. Realized the life of serving for the good of the community rather than the individual first mentality found in the U.S. Gained a new perspective on how much we take for granted here in the U.S. Saw a life that was simply beautiful and tranquil. Very different life than here in the U.S.

8.- HAS YOUR ECUADOR VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE AFFECTED YOUR LIFE?
YES

9.- DESCRIBE YOUR OVERALL EXPERIENCE IN THREE WORDS
Exciting, Rewarding, and Learning