Jerry Swon | Community

Jerry Swon has a longstanding interest in volunteering and community involvement.

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Ways to Increase Your Community's Confidence in You as a Leader

Ways to Increase Your Community’s Confidence in You as a Leader

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On February 15, 2024

In Community, Jerry Swon, Volunteer

Leadership is an intricate tapestry woven from trust, respect, and the ability to inspire and guide others towards a common goal. In the context of community leadership, the stakes are particularly high, as leaders are tasked with fostering unity, driving social change, and addressing the needs and concerns of diverse groups. Increasing a community’s confidence in you as a leader is not merely about demonstrating competence and decision-making skills; it’s about building deep, meaningful connections with community members, understanding their aspirations and fears, and being a steadfast source of support and guidance. This process involves a blend of communication, empathy, transparency, and integrity. By embodying these qualities, a leader can lay a strong foundation for trust, which is the bedrock of confidence. However, cultivating this confidence requires consistent effort and a strategic approach. 

Communities are inherently diverse, comprising individuals with varied backgrounds, beliefs, and expectations. This diversity, while a strength, also presents challenges for leaders, who must navigate differing opinions and interests to achieve consensus and drive collective action. Moreover, the growing complexity of social issues, from economic disparities to environmental concerns, demands leaders who are not only visionary but also empathetic and adaptable. The erosion of trust in leadership across various sectors underscores the urgency for community leaders to actively work on building and maintaining confidence among their constituents. Gaining and retaining community confidence is an ongoing process that encompasses understanding community dynamics, engaging in transparent communication, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the community’s interests. Addressing these aspects thoughtfully can significantly impact a leader’s ability to inspire trust and confidence, which are crucial for effective leadership.

Transparent Communication 

Transparent communication is fundamental to building confidence in leadership. It entails sharing both the successes and challenges faced by the community, providing a clear rationale for decisions made, and openly discussing future plans and strategies. This level of openness fosters trust by making community members feel informed and involved in the processes that affect their lives. It also mitigates rumors and misinformation, which can quickly erode trust. Moreover, transparent communication should be two-way; it’s not just about disseminating information but also actively listening to community members’ feedback, concerns, and suggestions. Implementing mechanisms for regular dialogue, such as community forums, surveys, and town hall meetings, can facilitate this exchange. 

Demonstrating Empathy and Understanding

Empathy and understanding are critical for a leader to connect with their community on a deeper level. This involves not only recognizing the diverse needs and concerns of community members but also actively working to address them in a compassionate and inclusive manner. Leadership exhibiting empathy is characterized by deeds that speak to a sincere care for the welfare of people and society at large.  

By prioritizing inclusivity and equity, leaders can show that they value every community member’s contribution and well-being. Additionally, empathetic leadership involves being present and accessible. Spending time in different community settings, participating in local events, and being approachable for conversations can help leaders understand the lived experiences of their constituents. This hands-on approach not only provides valuable insights into the community’s needs but also builds rapport and a sense of solidarity. When community members see their leader as someone who genuinely cares and is committed to making a positive impact, it significantly boosts their confidence and trust in that leader’s ability to guide the community forward.

Consistent Action and Accountability

Consistent action and accountability are key to sustaining community confidence in leadership. This means not only making promises but also following through with concrete actions that address the community’s needs and aspirations. Consistency in action demonstrates a leader’s commitment and reliability, reinforcing trust over time. It involves setting clear goals, developing strategic plans to achieve them, and regularly updating the community on progress. When challenges arise, as they inevitably will, being accountable is crucial. This includes taking responsibility for setbacks, learning from them, and making necessary adjustments to strategies and plans. Accountability also means being transparent about the limitations and constraints faced by the leadership in achieving certain goals. 

Elevating a community’s confidence in you as a leader is a journey marked by commitment, authenticity, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the collective well-being. Through transparent communication, leaders can establish a foundation of trust and clarity, ensuring that every community member feels informed, valued, and involved. Demonstrating empathy and understanding further deepens this bond, allowing leaders to connect with the heart of the community and address its needs with compassion and inclusivity. Consistent action and accountability solidify this relationship, proving that the leader is not only a visionary but also a doer, someone who stands by their word and works tirelessly towards the community’s betterment. These strategies, when pursued with sincerity and dedication, can transform the dynamics between leaders and their communities, fostering an environment of mutual respect, collaboration, and shared purpose. Ultimately, the measure of a leader’s success lies in their ability to inspire confidence and rally their community towards common goals, navigating challenges with resilience and celebrating successes with humility. In doing so, leaders not only achieve tangible outcomes but also leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and unity that transcends their tenure.

How to Plan Celebrations For Your Community

How to Plan Celebrations For Your Community

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On January 10, 2024

In Community, Jerry Swon, Volunteer

Community celebrations are vibrant events that unite people, foster a sense of belonging, and strengthen local bonds. Planning such events, however, requires thoughtful consideration, meticulous organization, and an inclusive approach. These gatherings can range from small neighborhood parties to large-scale festivals, each with unique elements that reflect the community’s spirit and diversity. A successful community celebration provides entertainment, nurtures relationships, honors local traditions, and creates lasting memories. Following guidelines can create meaningful and enjoyable experiences that resonate with the entire community.

Community celebrations have deep historical roots, often originating from ancient rituals, religious ceremonies, or cultural traditions. Today, these events serve multiple purposes: they reinforce communal identities, celebrate diversity, and provide a platform for communal expression. The planning of such events varies greatly depending on the community’s size, demographics, and cultural background.

The importance of these celebrations extends beyond mere festivity. They can stimulate local economies by attracting visitors and promoting local businesses. They provide local artists, musicians, and performers opportunities to showcase their talents. Moreover, they bridge generational and cultural gaps and promote mutual understanding and respect.

However, effective planning is crucial to ensure these objectives are met. It involves logistical organization and understanding the community’s fabric – its values, traditions, and expectations. Engagement and collaboration with community members are vital in this process. This comprehensive planning requires a balance of creativity, pragmatism, and a deep sense of empathy and connection to the community.

Understanding Community Needs and Desires

The first step in planning a community celebration is to understand the community’s needs and desires. This involves active listening and engagement with various community members. Conducting surveys, hosting town hall meetings, and forming focus groups are effective ways to gather input. It’s important to reach diverse groups within the community, including underrepresented populations, to ensure the event is inclusive and reflective of the entire community.

Understanding the community’s demographic makeup, cultural heritage, and interests is crucial. For example, a community with a significant population of young families might enjoy family-friendly activities, while a community with a rich cultural heritage might prefer events that celebrate their traditions. Inclusivity should be a key goal; the celebration should cater to different age groups, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.

This phase also involves identifying the community’s resources, such as available venues, local talents, and potential sponsors. Engaging local businesses and organizations as sponsors or partners helps with funding and promotes a sense of ownership and pride within the community. This approach ensures the celebration resonates with the community’s identity and values.

Managing Logistics and Engaging Volunteers

Effective management of logistics is critical for the smooth execution of community celebrations. This includes securing a suitable venue, arranging food and beverages, organizing entertainment, and ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety standards. A detailed plan should be created that outlines every aspect of the event, from setup to cleanup.

Volunteer engagement is another crucial component. Volunteers not only provide valuable manpower but also bring diverse skills and ideas. Volunteers can be recruited through local community groups, schools, and social media. Providing clear roles and responsibilities and offering training, if necessary, can enhance the volunteers’ experience and efficiency.

It’s essential to have a contingency plan for unexpected challenges, such as inclement weather or technical issues. This includes having backup vendors, alternative indoor venues, and emergency services on standby.

Coordination with local authorities for permits, safety protocols, and public services (like traffic control and waste management) is also imperative. Effective communication and coordination with all stakeholders – vendors, performers, volunteers, local authorities, and community members – are key to managing logistics seamlessly.

Promotion and Ensuring Inclusivity

Promoting the event effectively ensures a good turnout and community engagement. To reach a broad audience, utilize local media, social media platforms, community newsletters, and word-of-mouth. The promotional material should be inclusive, showcasing the diversity of activities and indicating that everyone in the community is welcome.

Ensuring inclusivity in event planning is fundamental. This means considering accessibility for people with disabilities, providing multi-lingual materials if necessary, and ensuring that the event is affordable or free. Activities should appeal to a wide range of interests and ages, and space should be safe and welcoming for everyone.

Feedback should be gathered post-event to assess its success and areas for improvement. This can be done through surveys, social media, or community meetings. Continuous engagement with the community, even after the event, helps in building trust and sets a positive foundation for future events.

Planning a celebration for your community is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. It requires a deep understanding of the community’s fabric, meticulous logistical planning, and a commitment to inclusivity and engagement. Such celebrations can become a cornerstone of community life by actively listening to the community’s needs, involving volunteers, effectively managing logistics, and ensuring the event is inclusive and well-promoted.

These events are more than just gatherings; they reflect the community’s spirit, diversity, and unity. They allow community members to unite, celebrate their unique identities, and create shared experiences. The success of these events can foster a stronger sense of community, enhance local pride, and build lasting bonds among residents. As planners, the ultimate reward is seeing the joy and connections these celebrations foster, reinforcing the belief that well-planned community events can build stronger, more connected, and more vibrant communities.

how_community_leaders_can_take_better_action_during_a_crisis

How Community Leaders Can Take Better Action During a Crisis

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On December 11, 2023

In Blog, Community, Jerry Swon, Volunteer

Community leaders play a pivotal role in guiding their constituents through times of crisis. Whether facing natural disasters, public health emergencies, or social challenges, effective leadership during crises is essential for maintaining resilience and fostering recovery. Here are key strategies for community leaders to take better action during a crisis:

Establish Clear Communication Channels:

Transparent and timely communication is the foundation of effective crisis management. Community leaders must establish clear communication channels to disseminate accurate information, updates, and instructions. To reach a broad audience, utilize various platforms, including social media, community newsletters, and local news outlets. 

Prioritize Public Safety and Well-being:

The safety and well-being of community members should be the top priority during a crisis. Community leaders must work closely with emergency services, healthcare professionals, and relevant authorities to implement and communicate safety measures. 

Provide Support Services:

Crises often result in emotional and practical challenges for community members. Leaders should establish support services such as counseling, mental health resources, and assistance programs to help individuals cope with the impact of the crisis. Providing a range of services demonstrates a commitment to the community’s well-being and facilitates recovery.

Empower Local Leaders and Volunteers:

Distribute responsibilities and empower local leaders and volunteers to actively participate in crisis response efforts. Community leaders should organize training sessions, establish volunteer networks, and delegate tasks based on individuals’ skills and expertise.

Adapt and Iterate Crisis Response Plans:

Flexibility is crucial in crisis management. Community leaders should have adaptable crisis response plans that can be modified based on the evolving nature of the situation. Regularly review and update these plans, considering lessons from previous crises and incorporating stakeholder feedback. 

Address Inequities and Vulnerabilities:

Crises often exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities. Community leaders must be attuned to the vulnerabilities within their community and take proactive measures to address disparities. This includes ensuring that support services are accessible to all residents, prioritizing the needs of marginalized populations, and advocating for inclusive policies that promote equity.

Encourage Information Sharing and Education:

Knowledge is a powerful tool in crisis management. Encourage information sharing and education within the community to enhance preparedness. Provide resources and guidance on crisis response strategies, emergency preparedness, and risk mitigation. 

Demonstrate Empathy and Compassion:

Crises evoke a range of emotions within a community. Leaders must demonstrate empathy, understanding, and compassion in their communications and actions. Acknowledge the challenges faced by individuals and communities, express solidarity, and provide a sense of hope. 

Learn and Adapt from Each Crisis:

Every crisis presents unique challenges, and community leaders should view them as opportunities to learn and adapt. Conduct thorough post-crisis assessments to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. 

Effective crisis management by community leaders involves strategic planning, collaboration, adaptability, and empathy. By taking proactive measures, prioritizing public safety, fostering collaboration, and addressing the unique needs of their communities, leaders can guide their constituents through crises and contribute to the long-term resilience and well-being of the community.

Signs of a Successful Community

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On August 21, 2023

In Community, Jerry Swon, Volunteer

Philanthropy and community involvement have been the cornerstone of thriving societies throughout history. They reflect a collective commitment to enhancing the well-being of every member. While community success is multi-dimensional, specific indicators can help assess its efficacy and progress.  

Active Citizen Participation: The level of community involvement is often a direct reflection of its success. Engaged citizens participate in local activities, attend town hall meetings, and vote. They also frequently volunteer and offer their unique skills for the betterment of their community.

Collaborative Governance: A community’s leadership is vital to its success. Transparent governance that encourages public participation ensures that decisions reflect the broader interests of its citizens. Furthermore, the results can be transformational when leadership teams across sectors (government, business, nonprofit) collaborate.

Quality of Life: One of the most telling indicators of community success is the quality of life it offers its residents. This encompasses low crime rates, access to healthcare, educational opportunities, cultural events, recreational facilities, and clean environments.

Economic Vibrancy: A thriving economy supports job creation and offers diverse opportunities for its citizens. This is reflected in low unemployment rates, thriving local businesses, and an environment conducive to startups and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Integrated Social Services: Access to essential services, such as health, education, and welfare, is crucial. These services are integrated into thriving communities, ensuring that needy individuals do not fall through the cracks.

Cultural and Social Cohesion: Belonging is pivotal for community success. This is evident in communities where diversity is celebrated, where there’s mutual respect among different cultural, ethnic, and religious groups, and where initiatives promote social cohesion.

Sustainable Development: Forward-thinking communities integrate sustainability into their growth plans. This includes initiatives promoting green building, waste reduction, renewable energy, and conservation of natural resources.

Education and Lifelong Learning: Successful communities prioritize quality schooling and providing opportunities for lifelong learning. This could be through libraries, community colleges, workshops, or seminars that cater to different age groups and interests.

Effective Communication: In the digital age, thriving communities utilize various communication platforms to keep their residents informed. Open and consistent communication fosters a sense of inclusivity, Whether through local newspapers, social media channels, or community radio.

Resilience and Adaptability: Communities that are quick to adapt to changes, whether economic, environmental, or social, and are prepared to handle crises, are more likely to thrive in the long run.

Philanthropic Endeavors: A culture of giving back is often a hallmark of a prosperous community. Whether individuals, corporations, or local organizations, philanthropic endeavors highlight a commitment to collective welfare and future generations.

Safety and Security: While often overlooked, a community where residents feel safe, both in public spaces and their homes, underscores trust in local law enforcement and community-led safety initiatives.

 

What Makes a Community Great?

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On June 14, 2023

In Community, Jerry Swon, Volunteer

In today’s interconnected world, communities play a vital role in shaping society, fostering collaboration, and driving progress. Whether it’s a local neighborhood, an online forum, or a professional network, a great community possesses specific vital attributes that contribute to its success. Understanding these elements can help build and nurture communities that thrive and impact positively.  

Shared Purpose and Values

Community members come together because they have a common interest, goal, or cause that unites them. This shared goal provides a strong foundation and creates a sense of belonging among community members. It is essential to clearly articulate and communicate this purpose to attract like-minded individuals and ensure alignment.

Active Engagement and Participation

Active engagement is the lifeblood of a strong community. It is the collective effort of members that drives growth, innovation, and collaboration. A great community encourages and facilitates participation, providing platforms and opportunities for members to contribute their knowledge, skills, and ideas. This engagement fosters a sense of ownership and empowers individuals to take the initiative and make a meaningful impact within the community.

Trust and Respect

Trust and respect are fundamental elements of any thriving community. A great community cultivates an environment where members feel safe to express themselves, share their opinions, and engage in constructive dialogue. Trust is built through open and transparent communication, fairness, and accountability. Respecting diverse perspectives and backgrounds is crucial to fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

Knowledge Sharing and Learning

A great community serves as a hub for knowledge sharing and continuous learning. It allows members to exchange insights, best practices, and expertise. The community empowers its members to grow personally and professionally by facilitating knowledge transfer. This exchange of information and ideas fuels innovation, problem-solving, and the collective advancement of the community.

Support and Collaboration

Members genuinely care about each other’s success and well-being, offering assistance, guidance, and mentorship. Collaboration opportunities are encouraged, enabling individuals to leverage collective intelligence and resources. Members can overcome challenges, achieve goals, and celebrate shared accomplishments through mutual support.

Leadership and Governance

Effective leadership and governance are crucial for maintaining the health and sustainability of a great community. Leaders provide vision, guidance, and direction, ensuring the community stays focused on its purpose and objectives. They create an inclusive decision-making process that involves community members and upholds the community’s values. Transparent governance structures and processes instill confidence and enable the community to evolve and adapt to changing needs.

Positive Culture and Experience

A great community cultivates a positive culture and delivers a rewarding experience for its members. It celebrates achievements, recognizes contributions, and promotes a sense of camaraderie. Regular communication, events, and initiatives enhance community engagement and foster a vibrant atmosphere. A great community also embraces diversity and inclusivity, valuing its members’ unique perspectives and backgrounds.

How to Have Authentic Conversations With People in Your Community

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On May 3, 2023

In Community, Volunteer

One effective way of building community relationships is by engaging in authentic conversations beyond small talk and surface-level interactions. Authentic discussions can help you establish trust, empathy, and understanding with those around you, creating more meaningful connections and opportunities.

To have authentic conversations with people in your community, here are some tips:

Listen actively: When conversing with someone, give them your full attention. Avoid distractions, focus on what the other person is saying, and try comprehending their perspective. Active listening involves hearing the words being spoken and understanding the underlying emotions and intentions behind them.

Ask open-ended questions: Open-ended questions are an excellent way to encourage others to share more about themselves. They can also help you gain more insight and understanding into their thoughts and feelings. Instead of asking close-ended questions, ask questions that invite the other person to elaborate.  

Share your own experiences: When appropriate, share your experiences and perspectives. This can help build trust and create a more equal exchange of information. Don’t dominate the conversation or make it all about you. The goal is to create a balanced dialogue that allows both parties to share and learn from each other.

Be honest and vulnerable: Authentic conversations require a level of vulnerability. Share thoughts and feelings, and be open to hearing others’ perspectives. This can help create a safe space for deeper conversations to take place. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the other person’s comfort level and not push them to share more than they’re comfortable with.

Avoid judgment: Avoid approaching conversations with an open mind, avoiding making assumptions or judgments about others. Everyone has unique experiences and perspectives; respecting and understanding these differences is essential. Be curious and ask questions to understand the other person’s perspective.

Practice active empathy: Active empathy involves putting yourself in the other person’s shoes and understanding their perspective. This can help you connect with them more profoundly and build empathy, which is critical for building meaningful relationships in personal and professional settings.

Respect boundaries: It’s crucial to respect others’ boundaries and not pressure them to share more than they’re comfortable with. If someone wants to avoid discussing a specific topic, don’t force them. Creating a safe and respectful environment is critical to fostering authentic conversations.

Engaging in authentic conversations with people in your community can help you build stronger relationships and create more meaningful connections. By actively listening, asking open-ended questions, sharing your experiences, being honest and vulnerable, avoiding judgment, practicing active empathy, and respecting boundaries, you can create a safe and respectful environment for deeper conversations. Authentic conversations require time and effort, but they’re worth it.

 

Spring Fundraising Ideas

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On April 4, 2023

In Community, Volunteer

Spring is a great time to plan fundraising events for your organization or charity. With the warmer weather and longer days, people are more likely to get out and participate in events. Here are some spring fundraising ideas to help you raise money for your cause:

  1. Spring Clean-Up

Organize a community clean-up day where volunteers can pick up litter, plant flowers, and do other outdoor tasks. This is a great way to get people involved in your cause and help beautify your community at the same time.

  1. Flower Sale

Partner with a local nursery or garden center to sell flowers as a fundraiser. You can sell everything from potted plants to hanging baskets and even offer delivery to make it more convenient for customers.

  1. Spring Festival

Host a spring festival with food, games, and activities for all ages. You can charge admission or sell tickets for individual activities to raise funds. This is a great way to get the community involved and showcase your organization or charity.

  1. Walkathon

Organize a walkathon or other outdoor event to raise money for your cause. Participants can collect pledges from family and friends, and the event can be held at a local park or other scenic location.

  1. Yard Sale

Host a yard sale and donate a portion of the proceeds to your cause. You can ask members of your organization to donate items for the sale, or you can ask the community to donate items for the cause.

  1. Car Wash

Organize a car wash where volunteers can wash cars for a donation. This is a great way to raise money and get the community involved in your cause.

  1. Spring Fashion Show

Host a fashion show featuring the latest spring trends and fashions. You can charge admission or sell tickets for the event, and partner with local retailers to showcase their products.

  1. Spring Auction

Organize a spring auction featuring donated items from local businesses and individuals. You can hold the auction in person or online and raise funds by selling the items to the highest bidder.

Spring is a great time to plan fundraising events that can help you raise money for your organization or charity. With these spring fundraising ideas, you can engage the community and make a positive impact on your cause.

Charities Helping New Jersey Families Jerry Swon-min

Charities Helping New Jersey Families

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On February 28, 2023

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

There are many other organizations that you can support this season. If you’re looking for a way to give back to the community or just want to spread some love, check out these local New Jersey charities with great causes.

  

MANNA

For over 28 years, MANNA has been dedicated to providing the best possible meals to those in need. Their programs have helped over 80 individuals with various illnesses, including diabetes and HIV.

 

If you’re not planning on baking this Thanksgiving but want to help, Manna can provide you with a pie during their Pie In The Sky event. All of the proceeds go to supporting families in need. You can visit one of their pick-up locations in New Jersey to order your pie.

 

Associated Humane Societies 

The Associated Humane Societies was founded in 1906. It has three facilities in New Jersey, including shelters in Tinton Falls, Newark, and Forked River. Their Forked River facility is also home to the Popcorn Park Zoo, a sanctuary for abused, neglected, and sick animals.

 

Ronald McDonald House of Southern New Jersey

The Ronald McDonald House is a facility that serves families whose children are undergoing medical treatment at nearby hospitals. It provides a safe and comfortable environment for the families to stay in while their kids recover. The house also offers various services such as hot showers, homecooked meals, and transportation to their appointments.

 

Through the help of your friends and family, you can make a difference in the lives of these families by providing them with a meal. You can also contribute to the organization through its website.

 

Angels Community Outreach

Katelyn founded the charity at the age of 12. Through her organization, she was able to provide free clothes to families in need. The organization’s members work with various local shelters and social services to help those in need. They also invite clients to come in and shop for themselves.

 

You can make a monetary contribution or drop off your unwanted clothes at their drop box in front of the store.

 

Good Grief

The organization offers free and unlimited support services to children, teens, and families affected by the death of a loved one. It works with individuals through peer support groups and advocacy programs.

 

 

Great Programs for People Looking To Volunteer Abroad Jerry Swon-min

Great Programs for People Looking To Volunteer Abroad

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On January 5, 2023

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

Looking for a way to make a difference in the world by volunteering overseas in 2023? Check out these programs, which are among the best in the world.

 

One of the best experiences people can have is traveling overseas. It can help them grow as individuals and improve their awareness of the world. It can also broaden their ambitions and goals in life. Another way to enhance the experience is by volunteering abroad. These programs will allow you to make a difference in the world and speak directly to you.

 

Biodiversity Research Institute

IP Bio is a recognized organization for its work in empirical research, and its programs are ideal for people interested in pursuing careers in conservation or science.

 

Through this program, you will have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the world’s biodiversity and be able to work on projects that are important to the organization.

 

IVHQ Ghana

Although IVHQ runs several programs in different countries, the ones in Ghana have significantly impacted the past volunteers. Their projects there have received over a hundred glowing reviews.

 

The program’s flexibility and low cost are some of the reasons why it’s one of the best volunteer programs in the world. It runs year-round and allows participants to volunteer from one week to 24 weeks. One week’s fee covers all the necessary expenses, and some projects are related to childcare, education, construction, and health.

 

Jamaica Volunteer Programs

Through these programs, volunteers can help the community by supporting various projects to uplift and empower the local residents. These projects include helping with construction sites, organizing youth programs, and feeding the needy.

 

Work on-site is usually from 8 am to 3 pm, and volunteers get an hour’s break for lunch. In addition to making a difference, they can explore Jamaica during weekends and evenings. You’ll also get to meet local people who live in the area.

 

SAVE Volunteering

One of the most popular volunteer programs in South Africa is SAVE Volunteering, which focuses on working with kids.

 

This organization works with kids in different areas of Cape Town and also in rural regions. Volunteers can join one of their projects that focuses on youth development or teach preschool kids in underprivileged neighborhoods. 

 

All volunteers must undergo a background check to protect the kids. The group is committed to doing good by volunteering, and they do so by responsibly doing their part.

 

Maximo Nivel

Projects in Costa Rica by the organization’s founder, Maximo Nivel, have been highly rated by past volunteers. They’re also very safe and fun.

 

The way that Nivel runs his programs allows volunteers to get to know the different regions of Costa Rica. This country has something for everyone, from the capital city of San Jose to the province of Guanacaste.

 

Projects range from English teaching to after-school clubs and conservation. Through immersive learning experiences, participants will have the opportunity to learn Spanish.

 

Gili Shark Conservation Project

The Gili Islands in Indonesia are known for their beautiful coral reefs and are a great place for professionals and conservation students to work on projects related to marine conservation. Through open-water diving, participants can also earn specialist certifications.

 

The program accepts volunteers aged 18 to 60, and most stay for around two weeks. In addition to being able to work on projects, this organization also offers training programs for those who want to become research divers.

 

If you’re looking to expand your horizons and experience a new culture through volunteer work, consider one of the many available programs in different countries, such as Indonesia, Costa Rica, or Zimbabwe. These programs will surely leave participants with a renewed passion and lasting memories.

Great Charities in New Jersey to Consider Supporting This Holiday Season Jerry Swon-min

Great Charities in New Jersey to Consider Supporting This Holiday Season

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On November 24, 2022

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

It’s important to pause and think about the individuals and organizations in need this holiday season. We’ve collected a list of several non-profit organizations in New Jersey that you and your family can support.

 

Center for Food Action

The Center for Food Action provides food, shelter, and heating assistance to northern New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents. It also offers advocacy and counseling services. Your monetary support will help these individuals and families keep food on their tables and a roof over their heads year-round.

 

Holiday Express

The holidays can be hard for some people, especially those who are alone. That’s why the Tinton Falls-based organization Holiday Express provides gifts, food, and friendship to those in need during the season. 

 

Bridge of Books Foundation

In New Jersey, there are thousands of children who don’t have access to books. During the holiday season, the Bridge of Books Foundation distributes new and used books to children in need. You can help these kids by donating new or used books or making a monetary contribution.

 

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

Through the efforts of Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Jersey, a child who has been removed from his or her family due to abuse can receive a voice. This organization is dedicated to providing these kids with a well-trained and qualified advocate. You can also support local programs by making a monetary contribution or volunteering your time.

 

Community FoodBank of New Jersey

In New Jersey, over a million people go hungry each day. Many of them are children. The FoodBank of New Jersey works with various food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens to provide nutritious meals to those in need. Every dollar that you give can help provide three meals to these individuals.

 

Good Grief

Since 2004, Good Grief has been working to ensure that children in New Jersey don’t have to grieve alone. Through its programs, the organization is able to provide free and unlimited support to kids and teens who have lost a parent or sibling.

 

Moms Helping Moms

The organization, which is called the Moms Helping Moms Foundation, provides low-income families in the state with the necessary supplies to start their babies off on the right foot. Through its baby supply bank, this organization accepts new and gently used items such as clothes and strollers. Your monetary support will allow these families to receive a week’s worth of diapers.

 

Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey

You can support New Jersey’s wildlife species by making a monetary contribution to the Conserve Wildlife Foundation. This organization is dedicated to protecting the habitats and species of wildlife in the state. One of its recent fundraising campaigns focused on saving bald eagles.

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