Burma Refugee Volunteer Project

My late grandmother always lived by the words of: "I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again." I keep these words by my bedside and read them every morning as a reminder to do something each day that will creative a positive impact of someones life. For the past 3 years I was afforded the opportunity to volunteer within the Karen refugee community through the International Rescue Committee located in San Diego. I was assigned to mentor a newly settle refugee family from Burma and given the opportunity to teach English, help grain citizenship, and be a stable figure to help ease the transition of a new life in the United States.   This opportunity was one of the greatest experiences of my life and has pushed me to pursue a career in refugee resettlement, humanitarian aid, and post conflict resolution. The biggest hurdle I'm currently facing is coming up with sufficient funds to help support myself while volunteering. All funds that are earned will go directly to the volunteer program, and helping support myself for the year I'm planning to volunteer. This is a life long dream of mine and I'm committed to making a change no matter how big or small in the lives of those currently in need. I plan on traveling to the Burma/Thai border and volunteer my time at the Mae La Refugee Camp, the same camp where my refugee family stayed for 25 years. Having gained first hand experience in San Diego and learning of the hardships that currently plague refugees through families who were able to find a new life in the US has motivated me to further increased my desire to do good. I feel that once you find your passion you should do anything humanly possible to achieve the goals you set forth. This is my goal! Thank you in advance for all donations no matter how big or small. They will all be put to use for providing help to those most in need! Refugees are amongst the most vulnerable populations on Earth and without help and support generations upon generations will be lost as they sit and wait for a way out. Feel free to read up about the current refugee situations around the world at: Recsue.org