JEL'S STORY

"Being a volunteer with Worldwide Action was something new to many of us. I was lucky enough to work with some of the guys on the very first project, before the charity was even founded, so was looking forward to meeting up again.

This time the project was part of the official and registered charity which meant that lots of background work had to be done and legal requirements meant that there was a lot of administration which needed to be completed. There were several courses which had to be completed online and checklists for all to attempt to bring along with any personal equipment you wished to bring along."

what made you want to volunteer?

"I have personally worked with Graeme over the last 8 years or so and have considered him a friend over this time as well as work colleague. Since his previous employ I have seen a man who felt an immense desire to serve, hence the development of his previous careers to now running the charity.
Graeme turned a one off trip to help others in need during an earthquake recovery in Nepal into a vocation. He carried his own stuff in a rucksack and made a difference, even putting his own safety at risk by arriving in Nepal and then being greeted by the second major earthquake!
He has a drive which has been relentless, infectious and inspiring to all that have worked with him on the projects. So far building more than 10 classrooms in Nepal, Uganda and Malawi, working on a project at present in Cambodia and looking to help more children "Survive and Thrive" wherever that help may be needed.
Graeme actually believes his "social interface" is not that good, but he actually is very socially capable - he just doesn't make things 'frilly'! He keeps it simple with facts and plans which make complete sense. His sole aim is to help the kids and nothing gets in the way of that drive."

can you describe a strong memory of the experiences?

"It's a pleasure to be on a site where you have the basic tools to create a brighter future for the next generation and everyone buys into that.
Graeme is always the first and last on site, is always professional and conscientious of any hazards to either the volunteers or the children."

how has working with worldwide action affected you?

"These projects leave you with a humble recognition of how lucky we are, how we take basic things for granted and how just 2 weeks or even a week of volunteering can change many hundreds of lives for the better.
The pride and self worth you feel afterwards is something money cannot buy, and memories that will be etched forever, thank you Worldwide Action and Graeme for being an inspiration."