Asante and See You later Kenya

I'm sitting waiting until it is time to head to the airport onto my next adventure and then finally back home.  It's funny how I knew that despite all the pre trip anxiety that when it came to leaving I would have a hard time, it is much harder than I ever imagined.  Part of me thought I would come here and be so incredibly disappointed or just not enjoy it in Kenya and Africa.  I am shocked by how much I have come to love this country and the people I have met. I felt as though it was my home and as I sit watching the clock count down(4hrs until heading to the airport) I have nothing left to do but accept it is time to move on.  Perhaps it is the butterflies of a new exciting place but I feel as though I have found a place that brings out the passion and good in me again.  All the drama, BS, and stress of the life I live back home is gone when I'm here.  Today visiting with my new good friend I had a hard time keeping emotions in check trying to imagine what it is like living just to survive.  So many people around the world are surviving, they get to wake up each day and make it to the next morning often times hungry, sick, or alone.  In many ways I feel bad that I have grown up as I have but at the same time, I never knew anything else. Sure I have always tried to be conscious of other people and always knew how other people lived but seeing it and becoming friends and caring for people in those situation totally changes how you think and feel about things.

I thank each of you who has invited me into your homes and lives. Thank you for the love and friendship and making sure i am comfortable and safe and happy.  Despite keeping my emotions shockingly in check for the most part, know that today my heart is a little bit broken as I leave and I promise you I am trying to come back for graduation in July but i am trying hard to be back sooner rather than later.

Junior

Today I arrived back at my temporary home to my wild boys to some truly horrifying news. One of the wonderful boys i have lovingly dubbed my Wildboys, died on Thursday.  Junior and his two brothers were staying at the home I am been in and spent a wonderful day adventuring in Hell's Gate last week.  These boys and their family had truly sparked a fire in me for future trips to Kenya and Kibera.  Junior was young(11 i believe) and very sweet and fun loving.  My time spent with them brought so much joy to my life and I missed them as soon as I left knowing I wouldn't see them.  Tragically he died from cholera Thursday.  This is such a shocking and preventable death of someone so young that I am equally heart broken and angry.  There is no one to blame, and nor should there be at such a sad time.  My heart goes out to his brothers and his mother and to Jimmy who has worked so hard with these boys.  I cannot imagine the sorrow they feel if I am so touched by this boy's life and death.  I am so honoured to have known you Junior and so thankful for the impact you made on me in such a short time. I only wish I had gotten a chance to be with you more and to help you more.  May these life inspire others to be the change we need and to ensure all children can live to grow.

Junior enjoying the trip into Hell's Gate(blue shirt)

Junior giving me the cutest pre trip pose

Wild Kenya

I have clearly not been showing this blog an TLC at all while in Kenya but what can I say, I have been to busy being alive, taking in every single moment.
The only downside of being here is that I have to leave in 6 days.  The more time I spend in this incredible country the more I am falling in love with it.  May 1st I was cone my internship which I spent with the remarkable women of Living Positive Kenya.

I cannot say enough about how much I love and respect Mum and LPK's work.  The women who are accessing the program continue to lift my spirits every single time that I am around them with their determination and positivity in life no matter what they have experienced.  I want to take a moment to shamelessly plug one of their awesome programs which I 100% back and guarantee.

 I say again, i am a skeptic and I tend to not trust organizations I don't know or haven't had recommended by someone I trust but the Educational Sponsorship is fantastic.  There are 110(ish) kids who are currently being sponsored by individuals around the world, including the incredible Stephen Lewis Foundation which currently sponsors 7 kids in primary and secondary classes.  If you have ever wanted to support and help someone I really recommend you contact LPK and see the kids who need a bit of help( www.livingpositivekenya.org livingpositivekenya@gmail.com )
100% of the money you give is going directly to the institute which they are attending.  The money will provide housing, food, supplies and most importantly education.  If you need/want to do an internship consider LPK.  You will safe, welcome, loved, and you will learn a lot more than you expect about life and yourself.  You have many options from helping with their farm, the day care, social work, fundraising, or you can fundraise and conduct your own project.  Lord knows if I could afford to I would not leave i would just be an intern for life!  I had to do my pre-goodbye last thursday as I am no longer living in Ngong but I cannot wait for my visit before I leave Kenya.

I spent the weekend on Safari, enjoying the tourist side of Kenya and I was baffled by the amazing things we saw.  21 lions including 7 cubs in one morning alone, the elusive leopard, a cheetah with her cubs, countless giraffes, zebra, buffalo antelope, impala, elephants... Need I go on?  There is nothing like seeing these animals hunt and play in the wild as if you aren't even there watching them. It was a really incredible experience and good to have a break from working although those are some early mornings!  I was lucky to have a very diverse and interesting Safari group and of course makes another reason you want to stay to continue meeting new people.

I am being utterly spoiled in my currently lodgings where I am eating delicious food cooked by a wonderful young man I am calling my personal chef, my host is introducing me to life in Kibera at his awesome library project and a nearby daycare where I feel like all i am doing is being loved to death.  I could spend all day sitting holding toddlers and smiling at them.  Everyone needs a bit of love sometimes!

The daycare is run by a really wonderful husband and wife who seem to just be so kind and patient and who I think really want to look out for these children and I wish I could stay and help out because they really have their hands full but soon they are getting some funding and remodelling to make it a bit safer, cleaner an environment for the little ones.  I cannot wait until I come back and see how it looks.  The kids and people of Kibera are really remarkable.  My teacher had told me that it was not at all like you expect it to be.  She was right, it is an organized busy community with a neighbourhood feel, I didn't feel in danger or unsafe, perhaps I felt stared at which is to be expected but I really like what I have seen and all the further potential in the local people who are working at it.  I am looking forward to spending another day helping out as I can.

This week I am also extremely excited to spend two days with a local doctor going out to some masai villages to help in his clinic.  It has been very important to me to get my hands into health care where i am able to see where my heart lies for my future endeavours.  I am hopefully that I am able to come back in a professional context, or at least able to come and make enough money to live on.  My head is already going crazy thinking of all the projects I could help with or maybe expand etc.  I am hopeful for what the future holds for me!

Living positively

Here I am, entering my 3rd week here in Kenya, That doesn't seem possible to me!  It is amazing to me how comfortable I have become with the things that surround me and the way I am already changing my views.

The biggest thing I have noticed and felt, which I am sure is common, is the way i handle money and financial issues.  The amount people live off in a week, a month, a year, is astounding.  Today I spent 2000KSH($27CAD) on buying some gifts to take home.  Multiple bracelets, four cards, two beaded jewelry holders(i mean entirely beads and wire and beautiful).  That is a lot of money in one transaction.  I find that while doing projects here, I am funding some little things personally and think in my head "Do I pay $150 for this when $150 could provide A, B, and C for a family?"  It makes you reflect on what you spend and use and forget to appreciate at home.  How many have a laptop, smart phone, gaming console, tablet, TV, DVD player.. Here I am visiting homes that are a third the size of my room back home.  I am staying in a three bedroom apartment where someone is cooking my meals and cleaning my laundry.  The home I am staying in would be considered low class or "west side" by looks but it is clean with electricity and hot water to shower and comparatively speaking I am living large here.  Back home I have a family and friends who miss me and care and worry about me and here people are struggling to make even $3 a day. A DAY! not an hour.

I am not sure where I am going with this post but I felt it is important to recognize and honour these people who work so hard, who come to work and to learn every day and greet you with a smile.  Who  sing and laugh and feel honoured that I visit their homes.

Every single day you have money to buy food let alone junk food, coffee, and new clothes just because you WANT them, be thankful and humbled. I know you cannot compare truly our lives back home and here but I know I am painfully aware of the clothes I am wearing, the food I am not finishing(but will be very fat because I am fed so well and so much), and the weak HOT shower I get every morning and bed i have each night.  I am honoured that these people and this community has welcomed and accepted me, every single day.  God bless my Kenyan family.

Time flies

As most people are aware there was a terror attack this past week in Kenya resulting in the deaths of 147 Christians at a university.  This event has been a lesson in the way different countries are affected and respond.  Interestingly enough I had no idea until chatting with family.  When researching the event it was all over western news sources with terrifying headlines and even so much as saying there was a nationwide curfew.
On the other end/side, in Kenya no one outside the immediate area is panicking, life has gone on as per it had been.  The only curfew may be in the Garrisa area.  It's interesting because Al Shaabab is a major presence even in Nairobi and there are areas that westerners don't visit because of that.

I am entering my second week here in Kenya already and I cannot believe how fast time is going.  By the weekend I already felt like part of the community here at work and like I have been here much longer, but in a good way.  I spent the weekend with a Canadian family in a very western feeling estate and I really looked forward to coming back to my Kenyan family!
I had planned to learn basic Swahili before I came but of course that never happened because I am very good at procrastination and now I am here!  This is definitely something I recommend anyone travelling into a country for more than a couple weeks should do.  Not only would it make day to day life a lot easier but it is I think a respectful thing to do when coming as a guest to a new culture.

I don't have much to do so far in the way of updates as it is a short work week and this week is my first week working on projects.  Stay tuned for adventures in life!

Jambo!

I can't believe I am actually writing from Africa.  I also feel like I have been here more than just three days!  I have already learned a lot about myself..

I have learned that I do in fact get extremely homesick and I was a bit terrified trying to sleep the first night.  All the worries of everyone back home crept in and resulted in a serious lack of sleep.  I woke at 4am the first morning and made an extremely expensive phone call home when it was finally late enough I could see where the heck I was.  It was a pretty amazing view I must say.  I just needed a moment to say holy crap this is so much harder than I expected out loud and have someone say thats ok!  The first day was a whirlwind of seeing the farm, meeting all the staff and women and staying awake.  Mum, as Mary is fondly called, makes you feel so loved and at home that I am so thankful because the evenings can be lonely as the lone intern here.

This is unlike any other place I have ever seen and makes me realize how little of the world I have seen and how lucky I am with my living situation but I am fascinated by everything and love how different it is.  Matatus are everywhere and traffic is insane!  The roads make Saskatchewan look pristine and people are swerving around holes, people, animals and vehicles.  Im glad I don't have to drive here!  The countryside is gorgeous! The hills are always topped with mist in the mornings and the smells are amazing(for the most part!).  Town is a mix of donkeys pulling carts, cows and goats randomly walking around, then mercedes and businessmen. I have also seen a grand total of 5 other "Mzungu"! Yes, i'm counting!

My second night I woke up at 2am and only another 45minutes so i'm amazing I was still functioning.
I got a tour of the Daycare program where when I walked in the door 71 children mobbed me yelling HOW ARE YOU and all grabbing my hands.  It was a terrifying amount of attention but they were so funny with so many different personalities and always yelling HOW ARE YOU

Day 2 we did 6 home visits to the nearby slums and other communities to see the homes of the women in the WEEP program and to learn about their businesses they are building.  They are extremely sweet and welcoming and I already know I am going to miss them if I adore them all three days in.  I am so impressed by their courage, determination,and talent and am going to have a lot of new skirts and dresses! I need them because this "colder weather" might make me into a sweaty puddle!

Day 3 was exhausting and fun. Today I did painting with the daycare children and also did a quick lesson on brushing teeth.  We gave them some crayons pens notebooks and of course treats and it happened to be their last day before a month holiday so my first project had to be competed quick like this.  I left tired and extremely sticky but feeling very loved.  They are an extremely bright group and the teachers are working hard to teach them and make sure they are safe during the day.  We already have next week completely packed because of the easter holiday and the work days promise to go by quickly.  I found out I have weekends off so I need to figure out what the heck to do to fill the time and not break the bank!

Well it's almost time to head home for the day and I am still working on catching up on sleep so I can form proper thoughts.

Keep Fit and Have fun!

Up Up and Away

Well I can't believe it but I am actually making my way to Africa.  I don't think that actually set in until I walked onto the first place today and here I am waiting for part two of this very long journey.  I have to say that so far it has been a major success seeing as my plane took off and landed as planned and a pretty smooth landing I must say.

I am hoping along the way of this trip I will have some interesting or funny or well really any experience worth sharing with my large audience(Ok, at least of three thanks to my family and prof!)of admirers.  So, for now stay tuned, stay safe and of course, Keep Fit and Have Fun!

End of an Era.. Or a project anyways

As this project, term, and program are coming to an end I am realizing just how much more aware I have become.  I will say again and again i err on the skeptical side of things generally and even more so in picking who I donate time, effort and money into so for me this blogging and researching has been preparing me even more for what lies ahead and what I think is important in this field.  Over the course of researching, chatting with organizations and just thinking it over in my head and on paper, I find I have changed my tune somewhat and toned down some of my judgements.

Earlier this year we discussed globalization and with it technology, and I absolutely feel globalization has made it incredibly easy to connect and stay aware across the globe and heck you can even video chat with astronauts and tweet with zero gravity.  With these changes lies a huge opportunity for organizations and people to get exposure etc.  I found it interesting to look over dozens of websites while I was both looking for internships and picking organizations to talk about, how different some of them are and also how much more is there than I realized when I wasn't looking for it.  Because of how technological the world has become I think webpages and hot polished and informative they are is vital to garnering interest and even trust.  Webpages that are easy to follow but leave with little to know questions say a lot about them.  Same as with people, do you trust someone you know nothing about and who isn't willing to share anything?  Obviously not if you are just chatting in line or on a flight but when is it every wise to say, have a relationship with someone you know only their name and age?

I admit I didn't expect as many organizations to have their financial aspect online, or in some cases, mailed in print.  Of course I(or should I say we?) have found that there are varying levels of transparency in regards to money and finances and what is being done with the said finances.  Though I was unable to cover ever organization I would have liked to, i wanted to mention the approach Free The Children took(www.freethechildren.com).  Their "Donate" area online says it plainly and boldly "90% of donations support our programs Only 10% go towards our administrative rate".  Like me maybe the first time I read something like that, you scoff "why is ANY of my donation going to administration".  Well, here is a little secret for you, NONPROFIT ISNT CHEAP!
The reality of being a successful non profit/NGO is that you need a staff base to keep things running, to get the donations allocated where they should be, to plan those events, to supervise those trips safely.  Unless you have some crazy good support or connections in government or with celebs and billionaires, there are expenses and overhead.  In a perfect world 100% of all donations would go right to planting those fields, building those schools, or buying those medications. I think what I am realizing is most important is having that transparency as to what you as a non profit are doing with those donations and that the work you say you are doing, is actually being completed.

I have to say I was also surprised by the amount of government and health region funding etc that organizations received.  I suppose I was a bit naive as to where all this money came from.  In my head I assumed it was majority people like myself doing fundraisers and manning booths, going door to door and begging for support(no offence).  Even simply learning about writing proposals was exhausting and ours weren't being submitted to an actually organization.  The amount of research and work it takes to obtain partnerships is overwhelming.  Though, if you know and believe in what you're selling, it makes it a lot easier to go through that process!

Another thing I found interesting, was the number or organizations who were "unable" to provide additional information even when the reason etc were explained.  Of course, development is a busy field and large organizations have a lot on their plate but even those larger organizations took time to email back and let me know "hey! we are working on it, sorry for the delay!"
A huge part of this field is dealing with people.  Even more importantly to me is how you don't deal with people.  Being successful as an individual or organization both require being approachable and prepared to deal with people and their questions and concerns. Without the skills of being able to interact with all different types of people an businesses, you can't possibly be successful.

 I suppose what I have seen, and what I still believe, is that you have to build and maintain relationships with people to reach your goals and your goals have to mean something to motivate and encourage growth.  No matter how big or small your organization or movement is, you are successful in the way you work with and encourage others to do the same.  With those things intact you foster further success and support.

Thanks for tuning in to check out these entries.  I will be heading out to Africa on Saturday for 6 weeks and will try to update along the way as I am working on internship, so please stay tuned and as always, would love to hear your own tips, goals, and lessons from the non profit/development world!

Happy Blogging and Safe travels

GlobalMedic: David McAntony Gibson Foundation

This is an organization I am very familiar with and so I have some person, professional and online insights to give which is a unique point of view for this.

GlobalMedic DMGF

About

DMGF began in 1998 in honour of David McAntony Gibson following his death.  Founded my Rahul Singh the organization works to help those in need in many ways using the motto "serving the global community".  DMGF now has branched into GlobalFire which both trains local fire and rescue crews and responds to disasters and rescue missions around the world.  Additionally there is GlobalWater which provides families with safe wage in their homes.

GlobalMedic consisted of three paid staff, as well as a board of directors to oversee the daily workings. The organization sometimes is responding to multiple disasters or missions at one time, keeping the office a busy fluid place. 

Mission

 "We seek to increase the independence of communities in the developing world, while ultimately improving the efficiency of international disaster relief"

Programs

DMGF provides a variety of programs to countries around the world when man-made or natural disaster  uproots their lives.  The type of response depends on the current need.  Examples of programs and deployments are

Emergency Medical Relief

Medical deployments may be as part of a RRT team  following the Philipean Tsunami, or in the form of training local medics in Iraq, or in supplying field hospitals to refugees.  

Shelter construction

Deployments such as were seen in Japan following the 2011 Tsunami provide local businesses and families a way to rebuild their lives and community following disaster.

Clean water provision

A large part of the organizations work is providing clean drinkingwater in various forms.  DMGF has created portable water filters which can be used in the home, tablets for smaller water amounts as well as large filtration units such as the Nomad and the P4000(which provides 4000litres AN HOUR).

Housing

More recently house building projects have been undertaken as was seen in the Philippines where a machine compressed dirt into bricks to rebuild commuities. 

( http://globalmedic.ca/programs/view/super-typhoon-haiyan-philippines-response )

Recently this winter DMGF responded to the heavy snow falls in New York State helping local fire and rescue to clear roads and homes and help residents get out of their homes.  

Funding & Partnerships

DMGF takes pride in being a no overhead charity, meaning that 100% of your donation goes directly to missions and can be mailed via cheque or donated online via their website.  

The organization receives support in various ways such as financial from donors and partners as well as in the form of free shipping of supplies and materials in some cases.

Some of the partnerships include UMCOR, MAG, UNDP, MuslimAID 

In Review

This may seem to be a comparatively short entry but that is because of my own personal experience with this organization.  

In 2011 I travelled to Toronto to take part in their Rapid Response Team(RRT) training so that a) i would be able to apply for missions and b) i wanted to learn more about this organization which sounded like a perfect fit for me to connect with.  On going I felt confident that this was a legitimate group and have since travelled to Japan as part of the RRT in 2013 to build shelters.  This organization is small in staff and physical facility but mighty in its heart and impact.  I can say first hand that the staff and volunteers believe in helping others and also most importantly look out for their team.  The organization always has team leaders and in our case we had two staff leading our trip.  There were certainly bumps along the way with supplies arriving damaged or late, weather etc hinders progress but always the goal was to finish the job that was intended.  

The work this organization is doing is incredibly and I am honoured to say I have volunteered and represented them and I absolutely unconditionally recommend you check them out, support them, or if ever you have the opportunity, join their team.  I found it awesome that their founder, Rahul, works as a paramedic and still helps run his incredible organization on the board and deploy and attend training.  Two BIG thumbs up.  I may be biased but I trust and love this organization whole heartedly

GlobalMedic DMGF

www.globalmedic.ca

416-916-0522

20 Claireport Cres Unit 9

Etobicoke, Ont

M9W 6P6

*Information provided using the organization website, RRT training, and personal experience on an RRT mission

Saskatoon Open Door Society

I have to admit I am extremely disappointed that this organization weren't able or permitted to meet and talk in person as I think this is a very cool organization but I have done by best to give you a good idea of what they do and how they do it.  

Saskatoon Open Door Society

Mission

"Exists to welcome and assist refugees and immigrants to become informed and effective participants in Canadian society, and to involve the Saskatoon community in their hospitable reception and just acceptance"

Vision
"Saskatoon is  multi-cultural community where newcomers enjoy full participation in its economic, social, intellectual and cultural life because of the work of Open Door in collaboration and partnership with others"

About 
SODS has welcomed new Canadians from 115 countries to date.  The organization began in 1980 by a group who at the time worked at the YWCA. It was started to help Vietnamese refugees arriving in Saskatoon and programs were then offered at Knox church.  
It received two Federal grants within its first year which allowed the hiring of a program coordinator, outreach worker, and office coordinator.  
In 1981 they decided to focus on providing care and service to refugees and began partnering with other community organizations. 

Programs & Services

Approximately 250 individuals access the program yearly.  They have a wide range of programs available

Women's Support Programs:
-Immigrant Women Support Group: Participants are able to receive support and guidance on family issues, parenting and health. as well as make friends.
-Immigrant Women Creative Club: Provides education based around arts and and focus on positive development for the future

Men's Support Programs:
-For Men Only: The men come together to learn about cooking and over this to discuss their interests, receive educational workshops, and hear guest speakers.
-Men's Recreation Club:Provides yearly sport activities both indoor and outdoor such as swimming practice, soccer, and volleyball.

Parenting and Nutrition:
They offer a number of programs including learning about family and fetal nutrition, learning about Canadian lifestyle and education systems.  They offer hospital tours for expectant parents and programs to promote social and emotional growth for children.  Additionally they offer "Bond to Literacy" which encourages parents and children to read and learn together.

Settlement & Community 
Programs help new canadians settle in by buddying them with a local family or individual to help them learn the local culture and feel a sense of community.  Additionally it provides presentations and information to local groups and institutions in regards to cultural awareness.

Youth programs include Study groups, school buddy programming, social networking, sports, and youth empowerment workshops. Another major youth program is the Annual Voice of Youth Summit which is planned by the youth and promotes leadership and organizational skills.

These programs are to help new young canadians feel welcome and at home in their new community. 

Language & Daycare
SODS also provides early childhood centres Monday to Friday where children have a safe place to receive care while their parents are working and also to socialize in a multicultural community. 
There are fees to utilize these centres although some parents may receive help to cover these fees
English courses are also offered at a variety of levels to help all new canadians improve their English language skills.

Employment Services
There are a variety of services offered which help individuals obtain employment as well as more recently including an 8 week English Language course to help them communicate and perform at work.
A major part of this service is the "WeConnect" Job fair which they say is Saskatoon's "largest and most influential multi-sector recruitment event" and is open to the general public  

Funding & Partnerships

The website provides a list of their funders and partners which include local institutes sun as Bethany Bible College, as well as The Government of Saskatchewan and Public Health Agency of Canada. Unfortunately there is no further information as to how these partners and agencies have contributed.

Annual Reporting is provided on the webpage swell.  
Reporting includes huber of new clients as well as where they have arrived from in terms of native countries. 
Reports included Financial Statements for the years listing Revenue and expenses for each years(2013-2014 etc)


Donations
There is a link to make donations online listing a number of programs which you could support with your donations well as a link to a "donation form" which allows you to choose from options
General Donation
In Memory of
In Honour/celebration of
I am unable to further comment on donation allocation etc. 


In Review
As I mentioned I was very disappointed that they would not meet to interview as I would have really liked to hear more about the programming and meet the individuals behind it.  Especially as an individual who grew up in Saskatchewan I think it would be great had they been open to having me come in and learn more so that I could share what they have to say and what they are doing daily.
I have to say first that this website is fantastic.  This organization has a very long list of programs it provides but the website is very straightforward and easy to navigate.  
As well I really like that they list yearly reports including financial statements.  I have said and will keep on saying it, transparency is huge because we like to know where our nickels and dimes are going. 
I think the mission and vision of this organization are fantastic especially while Saskatoon is booming and becoming more and more diverse.  As has been a theme throughout, i feel like it is more and more important that we are a culturally aware society and I think this organization offers a wonderful opportunity for us as Canadians to be welcome and promote a safe open community as well.  
I would have loved to have the opportunity to speak with individuals who are using this program as well as their volunteers to get more of a first hand feel of their successes as it isn't mentioned a lot in the local media etc

Saskatoon Open Door Society
www.sods.sk.ca
306-653-4464
100-129 3rd Ave N
Saskatoon SK

Picking a placement, taking the plunge..

Something that I think is extremely important in regards to non profit and volunteering, although perhaps a bit off topic, is choosing when to travel and who to do it with.
I warn you, this is a long post but has a wealth of advice and tips I have learned from my previous and current experiences in travelling and more importantly, picking where to go

Whether it is nationally for a conferene or internationally for a mission or internship I cannot express enough how important it is to research ALOT.  I consider myself a fairly confident traveller and a smart one too.  I have traveller to conferences as a youth, I have volunteered in Japan, and lived in europe twice.  I am not afraid of every little shadow nor do I flit around unaware of my surroundings. I don't want this entry to come across as telling you don't travel or that the world is a scary place but there are a lot of things to consider, some of these things I have recently realized myself but am glad I stuck to my guns with many things.

As you have heard me say, I am extremely picky and apprehensive with my decisions in terms of who I put my time and effort into.  Even in picking to do this course I drove three hours to meet my potential teacher to grill them and say "why should i pick you?".  Maybe that seems extreme to some but when my future, or savings, and career are at stake I want to know every single detail I can.  I think this is especially important as someone who considers herself a realist but is probably more of a pessimist.  I mean come on the glass depends if you only filled it halfway or it was filled and you emptied half.  See?  Nothing is black or white with me!

Sorry, back to the point!

1. Figure out what you want to do - Most importantly when starting to look I think you have to know WHY you want to travel and WHAT you want to do.  Is this a leisurely trip or is it part of your educational internship?  It is extremely overwhelming trying to find organizations especially when you don't have a focus so first.

2. Research organizations and programs -  A good start is looking into locally(Canadian) run groups.  Are there opportunities to go with a group from your area?  Do you know someone who has done this type of travel before? If so, utilize their minds!  The best way to learn is from asking others who have done what you want to do. Go to your local school if you aren't a student and talk to the International Studies program head or students and get more information.
If you know where you want to go(Asia, Europe, Africa) then maybe talk to someone who is from that area and get some advice on which regions or countries they suggest and even organizations to look into.
Good things to find out are what you have to pay for. Do you pay for food, lodging, flights, insurance, are there additional volunteer fees?

3. Research more!
Search the places they are looking at sending you to.  Our class was offered an internship in a remote town and I happened to have a coworker from the same country so I asked him about it.. He promptly responded "This is a bad place don't go there" which I replied by laughing and telling him he is hilarious. "No really do not go there this is a terrorist place".  He wasn't kidding so I looked further into it and realized the Canadian Travel advisory said to avoid that area because of insurgency.

*Face Palm*

Now that me interject another thought here.  My coworker was not feeding into the fear the media can cause but rather being honest about his own country that hey! That is a stupid place to go!
For me it is extremely important that an organization I am going with is aware of where they should and should not be sending people, especially people who are not experienced in this sort of travel. For me it was a red flag and unfortunately for them I would not recommend anyone travel with them.  Harsh, maybe but better safe than sorry

4. Be culturally and politically aware
OH boy I cannot express this enough, especially if you are wanting to travel for leisure opposed to for internship/work experience.  For me choosing travel to Africa really makes sense because I am trying to work in this specific field and in Africa so for me it is important to get some experience to find out what it is really like.  Just taking a leisurely trip to Africa is perhaps not the smartest, depending where you go and whom you go with.
Your new best friend should be http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories and other various government travel sites.  There are websites that list current security concerns etc and that is very important to look into before you book any trip.
Watch the news, read the paper.. Make sure you know what is going on in the world. Not to scare you but so that you are prepared.  Talk to people you know who have been to those countries or are from those countries.  Research the culture, especially as a female traveller!  You need to be aware as a man or a woman what is acceptable.  In japan you bow lower to an elder and more times, you do not wear you shoes in the house, sometimes women are not involved in business.  Probaby good things to know.
Muslim countries you need to dress modestly, you shouldn't walk alone at night in africa. Nairobi has a HIGH rate of robbery and car jackings.  India you should have a male companion and wear appropriate clothes.
This to me is basic common sense information yet many people go travel and are shocked when they discover these things. It doesn't matter how "safe" you think a country is or how "smart" you are, you should always go the extra mile to learn what you are getting yourself into.

5. Go with your gut!
Above all, no matter what anyone else tells you about something.. Go with your instinct.  If you have an off feeling about a place or program, or you are uncomfortable then don't do it!  If you need more information, ask for it. If they can't or won't give it, maybe that is all you need to know, or not know.


Any comments or travel advice, let me know!
Safe Travels!

Canada World Youth

Today is a bit of a bombarding of entries, well a whopping two! 
I have been waiting to hear back from organizations about having phone conversations or emailed answers and unfortunately the next two were unable to provide either.  

I had emailed initially with CWY and they offered to mail me a package which i have in hand but it lacks the information to give a feel for the organization is really about when you get down to it, to get a feeling for what makes them tick.  Unfortunately when I followed up by email as was suggested I was told they didn't have time to answer the questions i had emailed.  Of course I understand organizations like this are busy but the extra five minutes to share information can go a long way to connect with people..
But without further ado...

                     Canada World Youth

Vision

"A world of active, engaged global citizens who share responsibility for the well-being of all people and the planet"

Mission

"To increase the ability of people, and especially youth, to participate actively in the development of just, harmonious and sustainable societies"


CWY Was founded in 1971  and offers programming to youth and young leaders to develop their leadership skills and become agents of change. programs are developed to hone their leadership and communication skills while providing a unique cultural experience

Programs

There are four different program areas offered in over 20 countries

You Leaders In Action
Consists of 6months for youth age 17- 25.  The program has two parts, one in canada and one overseas each lasting 2-3 months.  Youth from both countries take part in volunteering in both countries, in programming aimed at community development projects with focusses on health, environment and gender equality.  The participants stay with host families and are part of youth led activities.

Aboriginal Programs
These programs are aimed towards aboriginal youth and helping them become strong leaders and to explore new cultures both locally, nationally and internationally. These programs are available to First Nations, Metis, and Inuit youth.  
Programming developed specifically for aboriginal youth are also available which focus on work within aboriginal communities in other countries.

Global Learner
Programming is available in 9 countries for individuals or groups 15 years and older.  This program provides 2 week to 3 month volunteer work placements, host families, educational activity, and critical reflection.

Quebec Sans Frontieres
This is for Quebecers age 18-35 who  have a passion for global issues.  This includes 60 pre trip training hours and a group internship of 5-9 participants for 75 days.  

Partnerships

CWY has partnerships with colleges and universities providing credits for students.  These include:
Capilano University
Cegep Marie-Victorin
Dalhousie University
University of Ottawa
In addition they partner with TakingITGlobal to provide tools to share information and experiences.
They have numerous educational partners across Africa, Asian, Eastern Europe, and Latin America which can be found at http://canadaworldyouth.org/about/partnerships/international-partnerships/

Funding

On the CWY website they have listed some funders including:
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
Minstere des Relations internationales du Quebec
Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation
Manitoba Council for International Cooperation
Foundation Louise Grenier

Donations

On the website there is a tab allowing you some choices in terms of donating.  You can click "Give A One Time or Monthly donation", "Aboriginal Youth Leadership program", or "Donate to the Youth Leaders Fund".  There isn't any additional information provided once you click these options. 

In the package I received in the mail it does have some detailed Financial Statements which also list  other sources of funding such as The Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Donner Canadian Foundation.


In Review
I really am disappointed I wasn't able to get more in depth information from the organization as I often find websites leave something to be desired such as what happens to the donations specifically when they receive them and just to get that feeling of who is behind the generic answers.  
I do have to say that I really like that they provide financial information which I have found a lot of organizations sites don't do.  As funders or donors it is really important I think to have transparency as to what is going on behind the scenes a bit.  
I also like the easy to use website, I think a well maintained website goes a long way and the added list of testimonials is fantastic to fill in some gaps for the interview/chatting end of things.  
In terms of partnerships though I would love to know a bit more of what type of program partnerships they have, in terms of what did the DFATD contribute? Was it in a specific program or country etc

I had looked into internships with CWY and unfortunately the options we were given did not sit well with me in terms of location etc so unfortunately I have to say in review I am on the fence with the organization for me personally.  I do not discount any of the work they do but it is simply not a match for me and what I look for in an organization. I do encourage you to always do your own research when looking into organizations, look beyond the website and especially when you are looking to travel with an organization!


CANADA WORLD YOUTH
www.canadaworldyouth.org
1-800-605-3536
2330 Notre-Dame West, Suite 300
Montreal, Quebec
H3J 1N4
info@cwy-jcm.org

The F word

Funding.
That's right I just went and said it.. It is the dreaded subject of money.  Everyone wants to know where their hard earned donation is going.  People tend to be skeptical of contributing because often we(yes me too) assume its paying someone's wage or buying their starbucks.  In the meantime the organizations on the flip side are constantly budgeting, saving, planning, executing to make sure they reaching their goals.

Having worked on a volunteer level with a few groups, to me fundraising is done by people like us.. The working class folk who want to save the world one bake sale, one steak night at a time.  As we go forward in this course I am learning more and more how complex the dreaded subject of funding really is.  Currently we are working on proposal writing which I am learning is incredibly daunting from the outside looking in. Pages of work sheets and data gathering...

While organizations do receive donations quite simply from some, there is a lot of auditioning for those grants and donations.  The most startling aspect for me as I am writing proposals is just how much you have to know about what you are selling so to speak.  You have to know your cause inside and out. The Who, What, Where, When, Why, How.. And then some! You need to know your project budget(that word alone makes one want to bolt or in my case procrastinate!), yes you have to talk money.. ALOT. I consider myself a fairly bold person when it comes to work and getting the job done but the idea of going to a person or group and saying "Hey! Give me $30,000!" is overwhelming.

In some cases programs or wages are funding by the government or health region such as I learned while talking to AidsSaskatoon.  In other cases organizations are approached with potential proposals or they have to keep their ear to the ground for Calls for Proposals.  Fundraising is exhausting even at its most basic level of planning an event, getting people to actually come to it, to constantly sell sell sell your cause(because lets be honest in a way we are sales staff!), and to keep a smile while you do it.

Now proposals and partnerships are the big guns.  As you can see in the link I provided below, there is ALOT to prepare:
http://www.international.gc.ca/development-developpement/partners-partenaires/calls-appels/psmnch-prsmne.aspx?lang=eng

Okay so after all my rambling, whats my point?  There is a lot.. A LOT, more to keeping afloat as an organization than calling or knocking and asking for funds but don't cut those organizations short.  If someone is taking the time to come to you and ask for help, hear them out, ask for more information because it is exhausting and sometimes intimidating to repetitively fight for that cause and ask for help. And for those out there fighting the battle, keep it at it, if you believe in what you're doing, then you've got this!

Aids Saskatoon

AIDS Saskatoon is the primary organization serving those living with HIV AIDS in not only Saskatoon but in northern Saskatchewan. 

Mission Statement

To facilitate care for those with HIV and HCV, to provide prevention strategies, and traditional and non traditional care, and to remove barriers for those living with HIV AIDS and HCV.


Programs

The name is a bit deceiving when you realize the scope and reach of the programming provided

601 Outreach Centres

• There are four 601 drop ins; Pricne Albert, Yorkton, La Ronge, and Saskatoon.  Not only do the centres provide a safe social place for individuals to come relax, watch tv, or use the computer but also provide important assistance such as; Laundry facilities, personal care items, and nutritional services.  Everyone is welcome to use the drop in facilities without question.  I was able to check out the facility while chatting with staff at the Saskatoon location and found it to be a very relaxed and accepting environment. 

Support Services

• On site support services are available in Saskatoon. They also offer Mobile services to Corrections, home, and hospital.  They also help with income assistance and housing and other social aspects. 

Emergency assistance fund  

• This provides coverage for medications, phone, television, hygiene, books etc. for those staying in facility for up to 3months.  

Education and prevention

• Department is responsible for all new technology and medical information, and harm reduction strategies. They also goes out and do speaking engagements and professional education.  
• Needle exchange is provided on-site in Saskatoon and Yorkton. 

Intensive family support

• This is specific to Saskatoon and they are partnered with ministry of social services., and work to prevent unnecessary child separation.  They Address the cause of neglect opposed to immediate separation of the family.  Work to create Safety planning, and have a Crisis response team(runs to midnight) otherwise open until 4pm. 

Funding
The organization receives about half it's funding from The Ministry of Social Services approx. In addition, Yorkton and Prince Albert are funded by their health regions.  La Rong receives funding from The Public health Agency.  Administration roles are covered by public health, The United Way and Social Services.  Support services staff are through Dakota dunes(women’s health), Saskatoon Health Region. 
The United Way provides long term funds, moving into 3 year funding.  In addition they receive some grants as well. 

Partnerships
In addition, some funding is aquired through partnerships.These partnerships include the Avenue Community Centre(scotiabank aids walk), The United Way, and Dakota dunes. 
SHARE partnered in a research panel to ensure that community has a voice; To bring people to meetings and in on research projects.  REACH is a national level partnership, and Sask Health has community representation.  
Partnerships don't always work though. For example The Sask Indigenous Strategy on HIV AIDS approached but it didn’t work.
They currently strive to create a voice for those affected.

Donations
 The organization uses cash donations for a number of projects and programs including their Nutrition Programming, Holiday Hampers, Condoms, and even postage. They say they help with the things that tend to fall through cracks, like special events at drop in centre.  
One of their major funding events is TAG day


Monitoring & Evaluating
The type of monitoring and evaluating used depends on the partners.  Public health uses PERT for example. Internally AIDS Saskatoon utilizes a strategic road map; They see if their actions fit into that road map and if their goals are being met. Then they will re-evaluate the plan or strategy.  
Front line feed back plays a big role as well as surveys for those using services(They give coffee cards for participating),as well as feedback cards in hampers. 

  

Successes and Lessons Learned
Though the program is 29 years in, they say it has really taken off last couple years(They have 30 staff now, previously 5).  
In addition they feel being selective about projects and not requesting funding you don’t need.  It is important to create project you need THEN find appropriate funding. They Focus on their mission and what they want to achieve and how to get dollars, but Don’t chase dollars. 
Another success for the group is their Inclusive collaborative team. They Work together to achieve goals.  Even when hiring, clients have input to ensure it is a good fit.  Their decisions include community, and they have representation.  
Building strong positive relationships with others doing the same work and maintaining strong genuine relationships foster success for them.  
Looking after their staff and their mental and emotional health(physical also) is important to keep them strong and successful at what they are doing, and ensuring Good coverage for staff and a supportive team.  Last but certainly not least they feel having a Larger team base opposed to all front line has a huge positive impact on the way they function.


When asked what makes them exceptional;
"Our Commitment to hard reduction, and our stand against coercive behaviour." Following policies, and having accountability. With the Outreach centre; no disclosure and no requirements; a place where everyone is welcome.  
Meeting people where they are with no expectations, and ensuring the well being of all, including their staff make them exceptional.

Challenges

Along the way they have had their challenges of course.  The main ones being, not having enough funding in some areas for projects(Prince Albert only has one staff person funded).  As well Stigma with testing, condoms etc can make it a difficult road.


In Review

A point they made while interviewing stood out to me. They said they understand that they cannot fix everything but work to reduce risks etc. This to me is a really important good point to acknowledge.  It says that the group knows that they may not eradicate this disease or fix the world but that they are working in some way to positively affect and help people and that every success they have counts even if they aren't the be all end all.  I enjoyed my time at the Saskatoon facility and for being such a small physical place they are doing a lot of good.  I also found it very interesting to see how well backed they are by the health regions which has a huge impact on the success of an organization.  Being from Saskatoon myself I feel that this organization is vital and it is so important to have a welcoming atmosphere for people to come in and feel comfortable and not to be judged or condemned.  I think that is important for organizations and groups to keep in mind, that you cannot make people change or want your help, you need to welcoming and understanding and give them a choice for their own lives.  

I am excited to see this organization grow and make big moves in the province!



**Information for this entry aquired through in person interview

AIDS Saskatoon
www.aidssaskatoon.ca
(306)242-5005
1143 Ave F North
Office Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday
The 601 Outreach Centre: 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
PO Box 4062
Saskatoon SK
S7k 4E3