Why I Give

孙喜莉

Sophie Hughes has served on three service programs with Global Volunteers—first in Montana and then twice in Greece—and she is planning to return to Greece in 2022. She said she trusts Global Volunteers to invest her contributions    in    long-term   development

outcomes.

Why do you serve with Global Volunteers？

When I first decided that I wanted to have a volunteer vacation， I researched various organizations. The Global Volunteers mission statement really resonated with me. I was also impressed by the range of service programs available in so many countries around the world. I enjoy the Greek program—not only because Crete is a beautiful place—but my work experience involved social work and teaching. This program fits my experience very well. Greece Country Manager Sam Pinakoulaki provides excellent leadership and support. I also enjoy returning to the same program and getting to know the students and parents. It is exciting to watch the students learn and grow.

What considerations go into your giving decisions？

When I donate I want to know that my money is used wisely and reaches the intended recipients. I avoid charities that are known to have enormous operating costs because of staff payments.

Do you believe your donations are well spent with Global Volunteers？

I have great respect for the integrity① of Global Volunteers. I trust them implicitly to use donations to their best advantage. Global Volunteers provides a great deal of information and keeps us updated about the work they are doing in their programs around the world via letters， social media posts， and regular contact with their donors.

The pandemic② has brought hardship to so many at home and around the world. I am very lucky in that I have not been so severely impacted. I have served three times in the field and intend to go again as much as possible. It is wonderful to see the longevity of the programs and the changes brought about in small communities， many of which are slow and can only take place over time. I have seen for myself the stability of the work that Global Volunteers does.

注：① integrity 正直

② pandemic 流行病