3/6/2008 - Don't just work in the world, work to change it!
The amazing story of an AFS volunteer
“How wonderful that no one need wait a single moment to improve the world.” Famous words spoken by Anne Frank, and words that hold special significance for AFS Intercultural Programs in these times of global conflict and change. Volunteers are the heart of AFS Australia, and have made the organisation’s objectives possible for the past almost-50 years. Long term volunteer Jane Read has helped countless of young people from all walks of life, to live, respect and understand the diverse cultures of the world. In doing so, these future leaders of our world are being equipped with the knowledge and skills to build a more peaceful and just global community. Volunteers have the innate wish to make a difference to the world and change it for a more sustainable future; AFS Australia is inviting people to be a part of that change by becoming a volunteer.
“Jane Read is AFS.” So say the organisation’s staff members, marvelling at the efforts of this woman with her boundless energy and commitment. Jane’s relationship with AFS began back in 1968 when her sister was awarded a scholarship to study in the US. From there, Jane’s parents founded the AFS Launceston Local Group and went on to become a host family for international students travelling to Australia. Eventually, Jane too followed this path. “I was eager for my children to have the experience of living with and learning from someone from a different culture. And so it was that in 1999 we hosted our first AFS student from Russia. Since then it has been an annual rollercoaster, as well as hosting that student from Russia, we have hosted students from Germany, Japan, Venezuela, Italy, France, Hungary, Hong Kong, Colombia, Thailand, Costa Rica, Guatemala, U.S.A. and Brazil.”
In 2005, Jane travelled to Guatemala on an AFS Community Service Program, giving her an exchange experience of her own. “To be given the opportunity to live and work in the community of a third world country is amazing, and personally experiencing an AFS exchange program had been my lifelong dream.” Since returning, Jane has worked hard to set up the Community Service Program throughout Tasmania. “Tassie has led the way in Australia with this program and I am proud to have been leading Tassie! The commitment and determination that these young adults extend to our communities, gives us hope for the future,” says Jane.
Jane has devoted herself to AFS’s mission through countless hours spent talking to prospective and returnee exchange students, seeing their visions for the future expand and making it possible for them to imagine, inspire and be inspired. Recently, she even helped form a new volunteer group based in the Tamar Valley. But her highlight? “My proudest achievement has been sending my own children on exchange which has helped prepare them for life.”
“AFS volunteers make a difference in so many diverse ways, and they constantly overwhelm me with their commitment and passion… This is truly an asset to AFS Australia as an organisation,” said Belinda Williams, Director of Programs for AFS Australia.
If you are interested in volunteering for AFS around Australia, submit an online enquiry or click here to find out some more information.
Media Contact:
Barbara Ratusznik
barbara.ratusznik@afs.org
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