Children + Cuzco = The opportunity of a life time.

Hello,

I am from Hayden, Colorado (population less than 2,000) in the very northwest corner of the state.  I come from a family of educators and intend to carry on the tradition by majoring in education from Fort Lewis College in Durango, where I currently attend. Although I love living in Durango and experiencing everything college has to offer, I can’t help but feel as though I am missing out on something much greater. The idea of studying abroad has always been very appealing to me; however, I feel as though many study abroad programs replicate “college life” abroad rather than offer a true cultural immersion. I am looking for a life changing adventure, in which I can not only be immersed in a new culture, but one in which I can also help in whatever way possible. Through GVN (Global Volunteer Network) I hope to be able to give the children of Cusco, Peru as much as I will gain from this experience.

On January 6, 2014 I will embark on my twelve week adventure in beautiful Cusco, Peru! I will assist the children of Cusco with their homework, organize educational activities and provide the children with love and attention. There are many different childcare placements available in Cusco, including working at orphanages, homes for abused children, daycares for babies, community centers and working with street children at shelters. There is also the possibility to work at a boarding school for deaf children and at a school for children and young adults with Down syndrome.

From my extensive research, this experience seems priceless.  Unfortunately, there is a price. I will be taking the semester previous to my trip off from school to work and save money for my trip. The program fees alone cost US $3,347 this is not including airfare or incidental costs while in Peru. I am estimating that I will need roughly US $7,000 for my trip. I would be extremely appreciative if I am able to fundraise enough money to cover my program fees. This would ensure that I can cover the rest of my costs. I will be returning to Fort Lewis College in the fall of 2014, hopefully in a stable economic state!

I am so appreciative to have the opportunity to “Be the change I want to see in the world.”(Gandhi) This volunteer experience is everything I have been looking for and I am so eager for it to begin.

Thank you in advance for your consideration,

Cassidy Bush