Spreading the word

As the days until my departure to Kenya get nearer, my volunteer placement organisation GVN is revving up the frequency of their e-mail correspondence. This is what I just received in my Inbox - a copy of the press release sent today to local Wellington newspapers by GVN Media Advisor Lauren McMahon. The aim is to spread the word about volunteer opportunities while inspiring more people to take action, so hopefully at least one publication will take up the article!

Someone in your community has just donated their most precious commodity: their time. Inge De Leeuw, a resident of Wellington, will be volunteering in Kenya for 2 months this June with the Global Volunteer Network to work on various humanitarian projects in disadvantaged communities. Inge will be among other volunteers working with local organizations on projects in the Internally Displaced Persons Camps in Kenya. The post election violence that occurred in Kenya in 2007 left between 180,000 and 250,000 people internally displaced. Thousands of people fled their homes and found temporary refuge in public sports grounds and show grounds across the country which are called Internally Displaced Person (IDP) Camps. Many IDPs have very limited access to basic necessities, like food and education, while others who suffer the effects caused by their traumatic experiences are left with no help. Volunteers will work in the IDP camp offering help to children, youth, and adults. Inge will be making an important contribution to communities in need. Over the past 7 years GVN has built up strong ties with grassroots organizations throughout the world, and placed over 11,000 volunteers. Global Volunteer Network Founder and President Colin Salisbury says Inge’s trip abroad will be far from a relaxing vacation. “Inge will be working five days a week and will be provided simple living arrangements. Her dedication, and the impact she will have, is a noteworthy one.”