Dear Youthlinc Kenya 2011 participant,
Congratulations on your acceptance into the greatest humanitarian youth group in the world! You are about to embark on one of the most memorable experiences of your life. You will become lifelong friends with a wonderful group of individuals that share your commitment to service. You will also get to meet a group of people in Kenya that will inspire you.
Your acceptance into this program is evidence that you are someone who has dedicated part of your life to serving others who are less fortunate than yourself. You have demonstrated that you are a leader among your peers and you know how to plan projects and see them through to completion. During this service year you will have the opportunity to improve your leadership skills through learning from the mentors that are part of our group as well as through serving on at least one committee. You will also have a leadership assignment either here in Utah or in Kenya.
I am sure you are looking forward to the international service part of this experience but before we get to embark on this great adventure you will have the wonderful opportunity to serve in your community. Whatever service site you select will provide you with an opportunity to develop relationships with other volunteers but most importantly with those you will serve. I would encourage you to pick a site that has significant importance to a cause you feel strongly about. If you are unsure may I suggest something to do serving children. Most of your time spent in Kenya will be with some of the most wonderful children you will ever meet.
Let me promise you that your time in Kenya will be nothing short of “magical”. It is a wonderful place with some of the most humble and happy people you will ever meet. Their appreciation of the work we do will inspire you to do more than you ever thought possible. I guarantee you will want to return.
You have made a big commitment for this coming year and part of that commitment is your attendance at our mandatory monthly team meeting. At these meetings you will meet with the entire Kenya team and our amazing Alum leader, Jerika Michel. She will be helping you to make sure you get all of your local service completed, all of your required forms filled out and keep you informed of anything else that is going on with our team. She has an amazing commitment to service and is an incredible resource to help with your local service sites. She will also be arranging a monthly service project in conjunction with our team meeting.
Get ready for plenty of hard work and remember that the more you put into this experience the more you will get out. Prepare to be amazed at those you serve and those you serve with. Prepare for the experience of a lifetime. I look forward to working with you but most importantly getting to know you personally.
Welcome,
Scott Bawden
Kenya Team Leader 2011
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