A Community of Passion

Matt Suggett
England, UK

The first thing that struck me when I arrived at VE Global was the people.  Every individual was unique.  The community of volunteers immediately made the organization special and you could sense the energy in the air.  There was no “standard volunteer profile, ¨ but every individual came from a different background and brought a special set of skills and abilities.  Only one thing was constant: Passion! 

One of the major reasons I chose to volunteer at VE is that the intensive volunteer program begins with a comprehensive orientation.  For me this was an eye-opening learning experience that gave me an in-depth introduction to life in Chilean culture, the history of the country, and the social problems that the continent faces.  On top of this, we received first-class practical training to help us develop a broad range of skills that we would need if we were to be a successful volunteer.  The best part of orientation, though, was the opportunity to meet my class of fellow volunteers and to spend time bonding outside of orientation sessions. From that point on we worked very closely together and supported each other as we shared the highs and lows of volunteer life.  The friendships we formed in the first weeks have lasted long after we left Chile. 

After orientation we were immediately immersed in our institutions.  There’s no doubt that the work can be massively draining, but VE’s incredible support network was there to help from day one.  When you’re new in an institution you get a real sense of the effort that previous volunteers have put forth and the progress that the organization has already made. 

Before I arrived in Chile I had done a lot of part time volunteering, but my experience at VE Global was different.  Not only was VE extremely well organized but they continually asked for my input.  My ideas had a real impact, and the organization used all of its resources to empower me to pursue my goals in the orphanage.  Moreover, the committee system at VE challenged me in a completely different way. I had serious responsibility in the organization and was able to use my previous experiences to bring about change that was needed.   I had the feeling that whatever challenge I wanted to tackle, VE would help me achieve it. 

VE has an incredible personal development program.  My track was not unusual, and although I initially planned to stay just 5 months as a volunteer in the orphanage I became absorbed in the workings of the organization and soon became a Director.  As a volunteer, VE encourages you to take personal responsibility and is quick to promote any volunteer that shows initiative and drive.  Coordinators and directors are all promoted from within, and have the opportunity to lead the organization from a very early stage. 

In a very short space of time, I learned more than I ever imagined possible.  I made friends from across the world and was inspired by their passion and hard work.  The children I worked with were incredible and I have many happy memories from the time I spent working directly with them.  And, what’s more is that I know I made a difference.  VE gave me all the tools, training, and support that I needed, and they were there to guide me, mentor me, and give my volunteer experience direction and specific purpose.  Joining VE was the best decision of my life.