1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?
Various experiences have drawn me towards VISIONS. My love of traveling was solidified on my 2022 exchange to the University of Vermont, and my interest in teaching was realized through jobs as a swimming coach and as a university teacher. I’ve also been privileged to participate in several remote outdoor camps, each of which I thoroughly enjoyed.
2. What experiences have shaped your passion for community service and youth development?
I have been incredibly fortunate to be exposed to a variety of groups centered around both youth development and community service. My time as a swimming coach opened my eyes to how fun working with children and adolescents can be; watching students develop and progress was an incredibly rewarding experience. Similarly, my time volunteering for Food Rescue Western Australia provided me with a valuable perspective into the lives of those less fortunate. I enjoyed every minute of it.
3. What is your favorite achievement?
Surfing Main Break at Margaret River (albeit on a particularly small day).
4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled?
Burlington, Vermont USA!
5. What is the best advice you’ve received?
“If you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel – as far and widely as possible.”
6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?
I hope to form long-lasting, strong relationships with as many participants, leaders, and members of the local community as possible. I also hope I can help make the program fun, rewarding, and meaningful for everyone involved.
7. What are you most excited about this summer?
I’m looking forward to meeting the leaders, the students, and the local community. I’m also keen to explore Virgin Gorda (and hopefully find a few surf spots).
8. If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first VISIONS experience, what would it be?
It’s my first time too so don’t stress! Just have an open mind to any and all experiences.
Recent Blog Posts
Spotlight: Greg Rolland, VISIONS Leader Alum
Greg’s passion for the outdoors and cross-cultural service culminated in becoming a leader on our very first Alaska summer program in 1995. He looks back on the early days, projects they completed and people he met.
Looking Back on Service Projects of Significant Impact
Looking back on projects of significant impact: In the Dominican Republic, VISIONS teen volunteers, their leaders and community members start construction on a new home… just in time
Your Impact Lives On
Since our inception in 1988, VISIONS continues to offer some of the best volunteer opportunities for high school students there are. Projects are ambitions and real, and have an impact that lasts on the community. And you—our alum—are part of that legacy.
Spotlight: Heather Smarick, VISIONS alum
Heather Smarick finished a VISIONS program in the Dominican Republic last summer, and recalls learning to mix and pour cement for two classroom’s foundations, playing cards with local kids, and making wonderful friends.