xoxo-Dakota Jackson
For the past two hours I have been staring at a computer screen, my eyes tired, and my head bursting with frustration trying to find a program to volunteer with. There is no doubt that when you plug in the words volunteer South America into Google thousands of results pop-up but, with in a few minutes a pattern begins to form. Each site promises you a personalized, one-of-a-kind, life changing experience in exchange for only your life savings. It is after looking at these kinds of programs that my friend Marlie and I realized how unique Changes for New Hope really is. Unfortunately, volunteering has become a business; people are using the misfortune of some and the generosity of others to cash in on the top. This trend has caught on at an alarming rate and today it seems almost impossible to find a genuine non-profit. I am proud to say though that Changes for New Hope is a diamond in the ruff. Marlie and I had the pleasure of meeting founder Jim Killon back in November. We were volunteering in Huaraz with Teach Huaraz Peru (another amazing program I would highly recommend) when our host arranged for us to meet. We immediately saw a person with a huge heart, amazing determination and a beautiful vision to help the people of Huaraz. Jim shared our feelings about the corruption in voluntourism and the toll it was taking on the people who needed help the most. Throughout our two months in Huaraz we were able to accompany Jim to the various areas he was helping. We saw first hand the difference he was making. Not only did he want to provide those children with proper nutrition, education and healthcare but also the principles and morals they would need in order to strive for a better future. Most importantly Jim has become a reliable, stable role-model for those children. When they see him they come running, screaming his name. He takes the time to greet each one with a smile, hug and a Que tal? Despite set-backs and road blocks everyday it seems his vision becomes brighter. In only a few short years he has accomplished an incredible amount by the sweat on his brow and the money from his own pocket. As far as I am concerned Changes for New Hope should be the template all non-profits should be based on; one that is selfless, honest and a great deal of fun!
xoxo-Dakota Jackson
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