Why Volunteer with EWB

With more than 340 volunteers sent overseas to date, there are as least as many motivations for their work. Here is what some of our volunteers have said motivates them to volunteer with EWB in developing communities.

"I volunteer with EWB because I believe everyone should have the freedom and opportunity to live a life they value. Many people are working hard to improve their lives and I am here to work alongside them to create positive change."

- Levi Goertz, Mali

"The Philippines uses the word mahihirap for poor. It is derived from the word mahirap which means difficult. This is a very accurate description of the life people live here. They do not seem poor. They usually have enough rice to eat and a smile on their face. However, life for them is extremely difficult. It is extremely difficult to move from their current position of living in a slum, or washing clothes every day. However, it is very easy for a typhoon or disease or ill-intentioned person to take advantage or their situation. I can only hope that during my stay here I am able to create some change in these peopleÕs lives."

- Sarah Grant, the Philippines

"From my experiences I have learnt that poverty is complex, and that making a meaningful contribution to development requires a long-term commitment. But they have also taught me that I can make a difference."

- Mike Quinn, Zambia

"I hope the impact of my placement is as far reaching as possible by improving the [Ministry of Food and Agriculture's] operations in Ghana and increasing people's understanding about development back in Canada. I know that it is already having an impact on me, shaping my life and global perspective."

- Robin Farnworth, Ghana

"With the introduction of the MFP, women have more time available for other tasks and the opportunity to generate additional family income. At the end of the day, I hope this will mean more families will be able to afford schooling and proper health care for their children, securing a stronger future for Ghana."

- Tom Owen, Ghana

"One motivation for me is to be able to correct the misconceptions that people in Canada have of Zambia, Africa, and development. Africa is not a country. It is not composed of a homogeneous people who live on the savannah in loin cloths. And development is not all about giving clothes to the orphans or food to the hungry. I believe it is so important to provide as much information as possible to those at home so that they may form a more accurate view of Zambia and gain a better understanding of the process of development."

- Jenn Dysart, Zambia

"Through working with EWB in Canada, Guatemala, Ghana and now Zambia, I gained insight into rural poverty and the complexities involved in development. I hope to share this with Canadians, increasing their understanding of poverty and development."

- Paul Slomp, Zambia

"My reason for going overseas is very simple: I want to make a positive change for the world's poor. I am passionate about creating a more equal world and about changing North American society for the better."

- Mike Gallant, Mali