THE summer brings untold opportunities for young
people, whether they are in college or out in the working world.
For some it’s living the American dream on a J1, or
exploring any other number of exciting destinations.
Difference
Some take the path of volunteering, experience a new
culture, challenging themselves while contributing to making a difference.
This summer, Laurence Whitty, from Coolock, will spend
10 weeks working as a volunteer teaching assistant in India with Suas
Educational Development.
“The volunteer programme offered me a great
opportunity to do something really worthwhile with my summer,
? says Laurence.
“I am excited about the opportunity to make a
difference to children who need it and I am also looking forward to gaining
some great teaching experience, which I will hopefully be able to use in the
future.
?
Support
Before Laurence sets off on this exciting placement,
he must raise
?¬3,000 for his participation, though he hopes to raise even more
to support the school he will be working with.
“I’m extremely excited about taking part in the
volunteer programme,
? he says.
“The 10 weeks will be an immense physical and mental
challenge.
Challenge
“However, it’s a challenge that I’m looking forward to
tackling and hopefully I will be able to make a positive difference to the
children and schools that I will be working in.
?
The Suas Volunteer Programme, set up in 2002 by a
group of students from Trinity, offers young people an opportunity to work as
teaching assistants in schools that serve marginalised communities in India.
Develop
Through the professional training provided by Suas,
the volunteers also have the valuable opportunity to develop their personal and
professional skills such as teamwork, leadership and planning.
The Suas Volunteer Programme has grown year on year
and this year they are joined by the Vodafone Ireland Foundation as a new
partner.
Meanwhile, Laurence has a lot of events planned to
reach his target, including a sponsored 50k cycle on March 31. You can support
Laurence by donating online at www.mycharity.ie/event/laurence_whittys_event/