From Peace Corps to VISIONS: A Lifelong Journey in Service
For some, service work is just a chapter—a meaningful but temporary experience. But for Annie and Ryan, it became the heart of their connection. They met in 1999 during Peace Corps training in Guinea, where their shared love for cultural immersion and community engagement brought them together. Their friendship grew from there, setting the foundation for a lifetime of love, service and adventure.
After completing their Peace Corps service, Annie and Ryan set off on their next adventure together in New Orleans. Annie spent her days caring for animals as a zookeeper at the Audubon Zoo, while Ryan led visitors through Louisiana’s wild landscapes as a swamp train driver. In 2002, they got engaged, and by 2003, they were off to Pittsburgh—ready to start graduate school and their married life.
That same year, Ryan discovered VISIONS Service Adventures and jumped at the chance to lead programs in Guadeloupe starting in 2004. At the time, Annie was in Kenya conducting research, but by 2005, she joined him, and VISIONS became a major part of their lives. Summer after summer, they returned to Guadeloupe, leading groups of teen volunteers in meaningful service projects and forging deep connections with the local community.
In 2010, they took another big leap—returning to Guinea together, where they celebrated their journey with a second wedding in Kankama! Their move back to West Africa wasn’t just a personal milestone—it also played a pivotal role in VISIONS expansion, leading to the launch of our Ghana program in 2011. Annie and Ryan led the Ghana program for two summers before their official “retirement” from VISIONS in 2012. (Our Ghana program has also since been retired.)
Their time with us left a lasting impact—not only on the communities they served but also on the countless high school volunteers they mentored. Some of those volunteers have even written to them years later, a testament to the deep connections they built. If you’ve been a VISIONS alum for a long time, you may remember the tribute to them in a Visionary article celebrating their leadership.
Now settled in Pittsburgh, Annie and Ryan reflect on their years with VISIONS, sharing insights on the experiences that shaped their lives and the lessons they carry forward.
Below is our Q&A, where they discuss their motivations, challenges, and favorite moments working with VISIONS.
Q&A with Annie & Ryan: Reflections on VISIONS Service Adventures
What made you want to be a leader for VISIONS?
Ryan: I wanted to share my passion for service abroad and the fulfillment that comes from working within a community.
Annie: I have always supported the mission of VISIONS. Having lived abroad for many years, I wanted to help young people engage deeply with local communities rather than just passing through as tourists. Working alongside community members, learning about their way of life, and understanding their perspectives truly enriches the experience.
What was your VISIONS experience like?
Ryan: It was an incredible opportunity to connect with people in Guadeloupe and Ghana. The relationships we built over multiple seasons in the Saints were especially meaningful.
Annie: The community connections were the most powerful part. Every year, I looked forward to returning to Guadeloupe to spend time with local friends—sharing meals, dancing, swimming, and exploring the island together.
What kind of service projects did you work on?
Ryan: The work was tough, especially in the heat, but so rewarding. Some highlights include building picnic tables, painting murals, and creating hiking trails.
Annie: We built playgrounds, installed park benches, painted murals, and worked at a summer camp in the community library. We also maintained trails, cleaned the local cemetery, and helped with beach cleanups.
What was your favorite excursion or activity outside of work?
Ryan: Hiking the active volcano on mainland Guadeloupe, scuba diving with sea turtles, and dancing in carnival celebrations were unforgettable.
Annie: I loved visiting the markets on the main island, hiking the volcano, and then relaxing in the natural hot springs afterward.
How did VISIONS shape your perspective or influence your future goals?
Ryan: VISIONS taught me to slow down and appreciate the little things.
Annie: It solidified my passion for service work. I’ve been a public servant for over 10 years, working for the Allegheny County Health Department, where I manage clinical services programs.
What are you up to these days?
Ryan: I worked with Habitat for Humanity between my time with VISIONS. Now, I work at the stadiums in Pittsburgh for the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins.
Annie: I manage five major health programs, including immunization clinics, tuberculosis care, STI/HIV services, pediatric dental clinics, and emergency preparedness.
Have you been involved in any volunteer work recently?
Annie: Yes, I volunteer at the Humane Animal Rescue, walking and providing enrichment for shelter dogs.
What does community mean to you?
Ryan: Family, friends, and neighbors.
Annie: A sense of belonging.
What gives you hope for the future?
Ryan: Everyday people still step up to help those in need.
Annie: Younger generations are more inclusive and embrace differences.
What is a personal strength you bring to the world?
Ryan: I stay calm and try to see the best in every situation.
Annie: Advocating for a healthier future.
If you could change the world in any way, big or small, what would you do?
Ryan: I wish people would be more mindful of how their words and actions affect others.
Annie: I’d stop the devastating effects of climate change and ensure that all creatures experience love and compassion.
How would you like to be remembered?
Ryan: Nothing big—just knowing that the people I’m close with know I love them.
Annie: As someone who spread love and was a good friend.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
Annie: Traveling the world.
What would you like to say to the VISIONS community?
Annie & Ryan: It is worth it.
