Cook Islands Volunteer Quotes

"I grew to love the kids I worked with over the three weeks I spent with them. I got to know them, their stories, their lives, their personalities, down to every little quirk! What I wouldn't do for another year, or two years, with them! These children will stay in my thoughts, in my heart, forever. It was amazing to see the difference between the island's elementary schools and the ones we have in the States. I think we could each learn a lot from each other."
~ Jessica Woiderski, MI

"I learned how much alike people really are. We all share so many of the same feelings - love, jealousy, fear, passion. I also became aware of how much this service program did for me personally - it taught me not to take things for granted and to work with an open heart and mind."
~ Roseann Mardjetko, IL

“Being a servant to others, giving my time and talents with no requirement for anything in return, was very rewarding. Almost everyone on the island I met in one way or another thanked me just for coming there.”
Steve Beck, CA

"Whether it was a smile that stopped tears, a game that brought laughter, a list of rare books that brings security or an increased reading ability that brings opportunity, there are many here who are better off because of our visit. For that we can all be sure it was time well spent."
~ Lisa Dughi, PA

“I developed a camaraderie with the ‘mamas’ who taught me to dance and sang island songs for me, telling of their own family histories. Cook Islanders are very family-oriented. Everyone helps in the raising of the children. Life is not rushed, but, on the other hand, is very full.”
~ Olivia Moore-Bledsoe, CA