1. What inspired you to join VISIONS?
I participated in VISIONS as a high school student, and the experience had a lasting impact on me. I wanted to join VISIONS as a leader to stay a part of the VISIONS community and pass on the experience I had to others.
2. What experiences have shaped your passion for community service and youth development?
My mom has been an elementary school teacher most of my life in a dual language program. I have always volunteered in her classroom and love working in a community setting, especially with kids.
3. What is your favorite achievement?
About to graduate college!
4. What is your favorite place you’ve traveled?
Ecuador! While studying abroad, I visited the Amazon Rainforest and lived in the Galapagos for three months.
5. What is the best advice you’ve received?
Not everyone will see the world as you do, and that’s okay.
6. What do you hope to accomplish this summer?
I hope to gain a new understanding of a place I have never visited, and form great connections with the new people I meet.
7. What are you most excited about this summer?
The beautiful mountains of Peru and forming connections with community members.
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 might feel a little uncomfortable at first, but that is normally a good thing. It means you are doing something outside your comfort zone and will likely change your outlook on life.
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.