It
was mid-July and I quickly realized, the Summer was half over. How
could this be? Another year gone and went. Sure, we did some
camping, there were some running races... but something was missing.
Not to mention, I had an itch to get out of Chicago. For a couple
years now, I have filled out applications to teach abroad, only to
use the excuse that it is too expensive, I just started this new job,
I have school, my mom's birthday is coming up, there might be a
snowstorm... excuses.
So
inevitably that idea came back to me this July, when I felt
unfulfilled, lazy and an inkling that I knew there was more I could do
in the world.
After
some research, a couple applications, Mike and I decided to team up
with IVHQ. It is a fantastic, thorough, affordable program, that
places over 4,000 students/twenty-somethings a year, into a choice of
over 20 countries to volunteer in various programs. We decided on
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is the second largest city in Brazil and
is the most visited city in the southern hemisphere. It is known for
the remarkable beaches and gorgeous mountains that take shape right
in the middle of a lively city. Yet, there is still a large
population of underprivileged children who have no where to go and
are ultimately directed towards a life of crime, drug use and
violence. That is where we come in.
Mike
and I were hoping to and luckily were placed to work with the
Children's Sports Program for IVHQ in Rio. It is a phenomenal
opportunity, that I feel I have been waiting my whole life for. I
believe in the service of others, you learn the most about yourself.
Whether it is a volunteer abroad program, local soup kitchen,
tutoring a child or just helping out a friend, giving back is the
greatest gift of all.
Hopefully,
this blog will be a great way for us to share our stories with you
and keep you posted on all the adventures. Until next time, Tchau!
Excellent updates, Ash - keep the pix coming, too.
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