Organization stands for a good cause, Nechama teamed up with SUNY Stands with Puerto Rico to bring a number of student volunteers down to Puerto Rico and have us do things to better the community after the hurricanes. We did everything from fixing roofs of destroyed homes to clearing paths in the rainforest that were ruined from the hurricane.
What I wish was different
Less meetings at the end of each day volunteering.
Advice
Prepare to work long hours in high heat environment. It is no walk in the park, but it is all for a good cause.
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Volunteer
June - July 2019 • San Juan, Puerto Rico
What I liked
Being able to help those affected by Hurricane Maria and Hurricane Irma directly. I gained a lot of social awareness about what’s going on in the world and learned a lot about myself as well. I made some connections and bonds I will cherish for the rest of my life.
What I wish was different
I wish I could still be there now and finish the job.
Advice
If you have the opportunity to either volunteer or to see the world, take it. You can gain valuable experience you otherwise wouldn’t receive staying home.
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Volunteer
June 2019 • San Juan, Puerto Rico
What I liked
I loved the fact that individuals were given the opportunity and resources to even help out. It was a great experience. I loved being there to help out and putting smiles on many of these Puerto Rican faces. I like the interaction i was able to have as well. It wasn’t just helping a distance it was helping, asking questions, and even take a lunch break with these people that needed my help. I felt a connection, I felt that they felt as if someone cared which i can honestly say i did !
What I wish was different
I wish i could have had a longer stay perhaps a whole month instead of 2 weeks.
Advice
I would say to be more appreciative and grateful for what you do have, because this experience has showed me what I do and don’t got and how fortune i am and how unfortunate others are.
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Field Coordinator
June - August 2018 • San Juan, PR
What I liked
I was helping homeowners from the hurricane in Puerto Rico. Also It was great leading the college students from SUNY and CUNY in New York (300 in total).
What I wish was different
That we could help every home that needs work. We completed 62 in 2 months but there is a projected 38,000 still in need of repair.
Advice
Throw yourself out there and help those in need. Don't take a job for salary.
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disaster relief team member
July - August 2018 • San Juan, PR
What I liked
I loved their message that everyone can make small contributions to a bigger picture. It was what kept me motived every day no matter how difficult the task was.
What I wish was different
I wish that there was a better "vetting" system because some people seemed to have been there for the wrong reasons, like a two week vacation in Puerto Rico.
Advice
Prepare to work some of the hardest days of you life with a diverse group of people. It is all very rewarding, though.
