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Winrock International

Volunteer Post

Love and Respect for the American People

Jen Snow

Winrock’s F2F staff in Nigeria recently re-visited some of the host organizations that received volunteer support over the last year. These visits are a way for us to see first-hand how the volunteer trainings have impacted each organization.

Sometimes the feedback is especially inspiring.

The managing director from Ogbuka Green Merchandise, a Nigerian agribusiness that received training from volunteer William Symons in June 2012, had this to say:

“I was shocked to see an American come and volunteer his time to strengthen our capacity. The Volunteer was not even bothered by how obsolete our equipments were and how disorganized our workshop floor was but rather gave us tips on how to make the best use of what we have and how to re-organize the work space. This has changed our perception and increased our love and respect for the American people and the government of the United States of America.”

I think all of our volunteers would agree that these assignments also build love and respect for each of the countries where we are working, as well. –Both sides benefit, sometimes in immeasurable ways!