Affordable programs in Education, Health, Orphanage

I would have liked to know more about the people I was going to meet for the first time. It was quite nerve racking to travel a far distance to meet people I did not know, in a place I had never been -but it was totally worth it.

I think it also would have beneficial to know that there are several items that aren't necessary to pack since those same items are sold in cities (ie toilet paper). It would have been helpful to know a bit more about cooking on my own, but that's my own fault :)

Godwin. He is a man with a small wallet but big heart. Godwin comes from a small village called Kpetoe (known for the Kente weaving). Godwin is the man that runs the school for the poor.

As a local Ghanaian he would get up early to 'pick' the kids and take them to school. He exemplifies what it means to be a volunteer. He taught humility, good will, and perseverance in a destitute situation.

Of course everyone has downfalls but he was one of my largest inspirations. I truly hope he is able to gain more in the future and that life becomes easier for him as well as the others he seeks to benefit.

If someone was to deserve such help in the future I think it should be him! We could all use some help but he grabbed a heavy burden; starting a free school for locals without training or a lot of money. If you ever make it to Kpetoe pay him a visit. Better yet give him a hand with the kids!

I have traveled to several countries but my experience in West Africa has altered the way I think and live. Ghanaians taught me that one can be joyful with little. Most of them also taught me the importance of hospitality.

I learned from Nana (the volunteer Director) that hard work can truly pay off, and that determination is essential. As I stated before, Godwin taught me more about humility and good will.

I have learned so much more about these virtues and I believe that my trip to Ghana has forever changed the way these virtues are understood by me. The virtues have been redefined.

In the workplace I believe I have become more understanding and patient. On a personal level I have grown to respect people that sacrifice even more. I believe that there is an honorable quality that attaches to sacrifice that many people are not familiar with.

Finally I learned so much about my own community in the state of Wisconsin. While fundraising I was humbled by the support and trust by so many people. Many people surprised me with their kindness and trust in financial support that it became even more empowering to build a school.

I hope the school was a good way to remember my friend Dave, someone that had a passion for education. Without the support of many people much of my experience would have been less impactful.

GCS is unique in many ways. There are several volunteer organizations that may not speak English. Several others might be corrupt or idle (with little purpose and few projects to work on). And yet many more organizations may not be local. This was one characteristic that placed the organization apart from other mainstream/well known organizations. I believe this is essential for the volunteer that wishes to have a more personal and connected experience while volunteering. Finally GCS offers a wide variety of programs.

The selection of volunteers is made from a simple application process. If there aren’t issues with prospective individuals following a completed application then they would typically be accepted into a program. One important aspect about the selection process is to ask questions. Any volunteer that contributes such time, money, and effort should investigate what they really want from an experience. Applicants will typically find out if they are accepted within a week or two. However because the organization is small, necessary contacts have to be made before placement can be confirmed. This in itself can take a week or two. Patience is important as is the information sent out prior to the trip. It also never hurts to talk to other volunteers that have done something similar!

I hope that GCS continues to grow. My wish is that more volunteers will learn about the organization and more needy communities will become further developed because of the positive contributions of those volunteers. This is my hope for the future of the organization.