Globe Aware December 2016


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It’s better to give than to receive We have all heard the phrase- “It’s better to give than to receive.” If you have ever donated your time or money to something or someone other than yourself, it is easy to attest to the validity of that statement when you experience the simple joy of giving freely. Lucky for us, giving doesn’t have to begin or end with the holiday season, it can truly be a year round commitment- not only in your own communities, but in the communities of others throughout the world when you take a volunteer vacation. This fall we had the pleasure of working with a corporate group of volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to giving back to special needs children in Tlaxcala, Mexico. Tlaxcala, Mexico is home to over 44,000 people with disabilities. They often suffer discrimination even from their own families and are not able to attend school or lead a normal life due to general lack of education and infrastructure. Our volunteers worked with the community to build an updated center for the Tlaxcala Institute for People with Disabilities- a center that serves thousands of kids on the autism spectrum, Asperger’s, Downs, Angelmans and other special needs each year. Around 150 hands and hearts came together to update the community center with a brand new structure that houses six classrooms/therapy rooms for children with disabilities. Our volunteers worked tirelessly together to build the structure from the ground up, and it was inspiring to see a common spirit within a group working together for a good and cause. In addition to the build, the volunteers also had the opportunity to meet and work with children, planting trees alongside them, and even engaging in friendly games of soccer. We are so grateful for each and every volunteer whose dedication to giving back to children in need and sharing their loving, positive energy put smiles on countless faces, and truly made a difference in this community. Tis’ the season to experience the joys of giving!
A few reflections from Globe Aware Volunteers: "I believe our group's work project was indeed meaningful. The direct interaction with the locals on a daily basis helped establish smooth interpersonal relationships and gave me a positive impression about the warmth and natural openness of the people. It was also a good way to practice my rusty Spanish. Furthermore, this also gave me an opportunity to get to know my co-volunteers whom I do find friendly, kind, and fun to be with. We had enough free time to explore the area, do some hiking, swim in a hot spring, enjoy a zipline activity (Canopy tour), go to the market, etc. Locally prepared Costa Rican meals (e.g. Casado) are so delicious. This has been my second time to engage in a volunteer vacation with Globe Aware. The first time was in July 2010 in Romania. In general, I am pleased and satisfied with how the programs (both in Romania and Costa Rica) are organized and do look forward to more volunteer opportunities in the future. - Adhara Lazaro, Costa Rica, December 2014 "This trip once again reinforced how incredibly fortunate we are to have the things we have in the US. Everywhere else people make do and live with so much less. It's humbling. Federico made the program for me. He was gracious, patient and always looking out to provide the best experience for all of us. He went over and above what I expected and was a really wonderful host for my family, my friends and all the people in the group. When we had a health issue with one of the boys he made sure everything was taken care of and Nick got to the clinic. He was always thinking ahead around what he needed to do to help maximize our experience as part of the program and as a guest in Costa Rica. He integrated with the group and became a friend - not just a guide or manager. The combination of his wit, humor, personality and listening skills are wonderful. Katie was only with us a couple of days but all the kids loved her and appreciated how well she connected with them. My 2 daughters (& husband next time) look forward to future vacations with Globe Aware. - Karen Gilboux, Costa Rica, June 2014
Document group and corporate volunteer travel with award-winning film production company Globe Aware is excited to announce a partnership wth Emmy Award winning Journeys for Good to film and document corporate groups. This is a great opportunity for corporate groups who may want their efforts filmed by a professional, video-documentary experts who have previous experience on volunteer vacation trips and destinations. The resulting, high-quality production can then be a great tool for staff used recruiting and retention. LEARN MORE
The Recipe for JOY Ingredients 2 handfuls of generosity 2 heaping cups of patience 1 heartful of love 1 headful of understanding Dash of Laughter Directions Sprinkle generously with kindness Add plenty of Faith and Hope Mix well, then spread over the period of a lifetime
Facebook Facebook recently converted our old Globe Aware Volunteers page. The new format doesn’t allow an easy way to post and share photos. To keep up to date with our projects and fun, be sure to like us at https://www.facebook.com/globeaware To share photos, friend and then post to “Shanti Shahani GlobeAware”.
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