Paula Rico
Peru Leader
1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?
I read about what VISIONS does and everything seemed fascinating. Two of my key drivers in life are having fun and contributing to society, and I think VISIONS will provide me with both.
2. What experiences have shaped your passion for community service and youth development?
I have been working with the youth for some years now, and I always have so much fun. I joined a boy scout group as a leader in Spain and it was a very insightful experience; it is really nice to get involved and feel part of a community. And lastly, I worked as an ESC (European Solidarity Corps) volunteer in Croatia last summer and I loved interacting with the locals and helping out wherever needed.
3. What is your favorite achievement?
This is a bit broad, but I am proud of my adventurous side. Stepping out of my comfort zone in Madrid, moving abroad two times -Turkey and The Netherlands-, and creating a new routine and social network there, seemed scary at first, but it was absolutely rewarding. I am determined to live many different lives in this life, and I will keep working on that.
4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled?
Azores Islands, in Portugal. The combination of volcanic peaks, turquoise lakes and vivid green everywhere you look is just stunning.
5. What is the best advice you’ve received?
Kindness inspires kindness inspires kindness inspires kindness……
6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?
I would like to develop true bondings and make unforgettable memories. Live every day to the fullest!
7. What are you most excited about this summer?
So many things it’s hard to choose: nature, culture, food, adventures… But on top of those, meeting new people (leaders, kids, locals) and learning from all.
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?
As a newbie to VISIONS myself, I can only say that I always try to enter new situations with an open mind. Reminding yourself to stay humble and positive, you can learn something from every experience.
Recent blog posts

Spotlight: Emily, VISIONS Peru Alum
Emily was inspired to join VISIONS Peru because of her passion for environmental science and sustainability. She put her all into the worksites and practicing Spanish, and came home with even more plans for her future after high school.

Q&A with Ryan and Annie, VISIONS Leader Alum
Annie and Ryan are VISIONS leader alums who dedicated multiple summers together to running VISIONS summer programs for teens. They share insights about impactful community service, and how they have continued to live a life together that exemplifies cultural immersion and volunteer work.

Spotlight: Soledad, A 2024 VISIONS BVI Alum
Sole was able to participate in our last ever BVI program in summer of 2024. She reflects on friendship and service, and how serving a community she loved changed her views. She didn’t even miss her phone!

Empathy in Action: High School Volunteers Join Veterinary Effort in the D.R.
Partnering with local vets, teens contribute to animal welfare through spay & neuter clinics. These volunteer opportunities for high schoolers teach empathy & educate teens the importance of caring for all aspects of their community, including the animals.