Testimonials

Julie Tang - 2009

“ Those of you, like me, who have lived in a developed country and have lead a somewhat comfortable life, know that it is quite difficult to get an accurate perspective on developing situations around the world and understand how we can do our part to help. I decided to be a little more investigative about developing countries so, I packed my bags and bought a ticket to Rio de Janeiro - one of the most dangerous, impoverished yet booming metropolises in the world.

Upon arriving in Rio de Janeiro I knew it would be easy to lose myself in the cafes, wandering the cobbled stone sidewalks and sunbathing on beautiful white sand beaches – locations which are typically quite removed from critical underdeveloped communities. To stay focused on my initial task, I decided to volunteer at an organization that worked with underdeveloped communities. Due to its popularity, it did not take long for me to learn of Saudé Crianças Renascer, an organization which aims to restructure families of children admitted into the local public hospital, giving them means to achieve self-sustainability.

I immediately visited Renascer to see what all the fuss was about. When walking through their door my jaw dropped. There were so many people bustling and hustling around the tiny office working hard, attending to families, organizing food donations and preparing educational lectures.  Through the bustle and hustle a Renascer staff member found time to warmly welcome me, show me around and tell me what they are all about. Instantly, I wanted to be apart of the impact Renascer was having on Rio and its people, so I returned the next day as the 141st volunteer.

As I spent time volunteering with Renascer, I learned more and more of their vital role in providing underprivileged families with resources to create a sustainable future. I also learned that it doesn’t take much to help a needy family – only $350 a month! That’s about how much I spend on groceries alone.  $350 a month is not too much to ask considering how much it can provide for families.

Volunteering with Renascer has done more than give me a better perspective on development issues in struggling communities; it has given me faith in organizations with big hearts and a strong vision”.