Around the World & Around the Web: October 2015

October 20, 2015

A Look at What We’ve Been Reading Around the VISIONS Headquarters This Month

Each month, we will take a look at some interesting articles that our VISIONS staff and office crew have been passing around. Many pertain to our program sites and communities. Here’s what we’ve been reading in October 2015:

Stop Googling. Let’s Talk.—This New York Times opinion piece by Sherry Turkle, who has studied the psychology of online connectivity for more than 30 years.

Here she talks about what has happened to face-to-face conversation in a world where so many people say they would rather text than talk? Also, check out Turkle’s TED Talk on the same subject.

What is Indigenous People’s Day?—During this past Columbus Day, a national holiday that’s still celebrated by banks and US government organizations, there was a lot of talk about Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrations. Here Upworthy.com explains what this new holiday means, and why it should replace Columbus Day.

Sierra Leone’s Stinking Seaweed—Sargassum Seaweed, the same seaweed that has affected parts of Guadeloupe and other Caribbean nations, is now raiding part of Africa. Check out this story in The Guardian that explains how the proliferation of this thick, brown algae are affecting marine life and tourism on both sides of the Atlantic.

Galapagos Conservancy’s Instagram Page—Prepare yourself for photography of cute and extraordinary creatures that call the Galapagos Islands home.

Do you have a VISIONS Story?

Fill out an interview for our Spotlight Series or submit a story of your own format or creative expression.

Related blog posts

You’ve Been Adopted!

You’ve Been Adopted!

Animal welfare is an important aspect of VISIONS volunteer opportunities for high schoolers. On the Montana Blackfeet Indian Reservation, teens help foster these wonderful puppies and sometimes adopt them, bringing them to their new forever home!

Spotlight: Anni Lindenberg Knox, VISIONS Leader Alum

Spotlight: Anni Lindenberg Knox, VISIONS Leader Alum

Anni Lindenberg Knox led VISIONS programs in Costa Rica, Ecuador, Montana and The Dominican Republic from 2003 through 2006. Her experience as a summer leader inspired her to continue her education and make it into her career.

The Dominican Republic: 2024 Service Projects

The Dominican Republic: 2024 Service Projects

Explore the meaningful work undertaken by high school students on our VISIONS Dominican Republic 2024 programs! Through challenging service projects, our volunteers build character and expand their understanding of global communities, leaving a lasting impact.