Volunteering Projects in Be The Change

Volunteer Feedback from Be The Change

Patrice Dorrall (BTC Taupo 2011)

It is extremely challenging to write within the confines of one paragraph about the impact that the “Be The Change” training had on my life,  my personal dreams and the massive vision that I hold in my hands. I could not have imagined or pictured in my mind the in depth, soul searching and eye opening journey of conversations, information driven and personally challenging sessions provided to the participants against the background of the swaying brush and tinted water of picturesque Taupo, New Zealand.  Being one that firmly believes that, “HE without a vision will perish”  the Be The Change facilitators, Caitie, Colin and Eliza, reminded me that there is a place for MY vision in this world and that it is my rightful responsibility to breathe  new life into my vision which will impact the masses.  Be The Change offers something for everybody –  the young,  the elderly, those finding their way, those at the crossroads and those needing that extra push to see what is on the other side of all the work that have already put into place to make a dream a concrete reality. The facilitators were personable, energetic and equally inspired.  The beautiful rainbow of nationalities and cultures in attendance made me feel like I had visited 6 countries at once. Be the change inspired me, invigorated me, pushed me, challenged me and demanded that I “Be The Change” that I want to see.

Steve Kalenich

"BTC program ... It was a wonderful experience. I can tell you from the way it went that in my opinion each program will be different due to the fact that it is a living thing that Collin and Courtney bring their BTC program outline to. How the program evolves from the basic outline they have in place has to do with the members of the group and the outline itself which also is a changing thing based on experiences of the prior groups. No two groups will ever be the same because of the individuality of the participants and that is what makes them so special.

The bonds, friendships and experiences you have will be as lasting as you choose them to be as well as what you get out of the BTC experience. What you put into it is what you take away from it, with that being said just imagine coming together in one place for a moment in time with a group of people from different walks of life that all share a common vision. They all share their thoughts and experiences and try to turn that vision into a reality. Even if some of the members do not know what they can or want to do they all share the same common vision and the group along with the BTC program outline turns that vision into a goal with a workable plan of action.

Every member will leave with a different goal, plan and time frame. Every member will leave with a different experience however all will be connected in a way that only a group like this can bind them.

Do it, you will always cherish the memories, friendships and the way you will feel inside as a result and you might just turn that vision into a reality."

Chrystal Mdes

"This was the most amazing, life changing experience to date. I would suggest this program to anyone who wants to make a difference, but is unsure how."

Andrea Suica (BTC Colorado 2010)

The "Be The Change Breckenridge" program definitely exceeded my expectations in every way. Instead of just learning about the mechanics of NPO's, NGO's and social entrepreneurship, I also came out of the program more focused, driven and confident to implement my idea of developing a global awareness campaign around sex-trafficking. Probably the most memorable and impactful part of this amazing week was getting to know the people. Colin, Courtney and Nadine inspired and challenged us to live to our full potential, really encouraging us through exercises of self-discovery, and helping us to lay out our vision. They were generous, kind and supportive -- couldn't ask for better hosts and facilitators! I felt like all of the attendees and the GVN crew became a close family by the end. Since the people joining a BTC course are like-minded and passionate about social entrepreneurship, we bonded quickly, and I'm quite sure will remain in contact moving forward. There have been a number of pivotal moments in my life, and I would consider this one of them. I came out of the course with the confidence that I can achieve my dream of setting up a global awareness campaign around sex-trafficking. BTC Breckenridge has been the catalyst to initiate making my dream into a reality.

Vicki Soanes (UNICEF Guest Speaker)

“Congratulations on creating such a dynamic, inspiring, creative environment in which the participants can thrive.”

Staci Alziebler (BTC Taupo 2010)

I had started launching my dream nonprofit early in 2010 but lost momentum when I hit some complications. The 'Be the Change' program was just what I needed to restart and refocus through the energies and ideas of amazing people from all around the world. Not only am I nearly ready to launch now, but I updated my skills and made friends and connections that would not have been possible, all while seeing one of the prettiest countries in the world, New Zealand. If you truly want to make a difference in the world, then I recommend the 'Be the Change' program. It will inspire you to 'be the change you want to see in the world.'

Yvonne Biggins (BTC Tuscany 2011)

The 'Be The Change' programme , run by the GVN is perhaps one of the best kept secrets.  I cannot advocate strongly enough about this course.  If you are serious about creating social change on a small or large scale, then "Be the Change" will give you the inspiration and foundation; the roots and the wings, to realise your dream, and start to make a tangible difference in the world.  The facilitators were extremely credible and all brought a diverse range of experience and skills to the course, which made the learning experience extremely valuable.  The group were amazing, and I'm sure I've made some friends for life, and possibly even potential business partners.

Tania Martin (BTC Cape Cod 2011)

I just returned from Be The Change in Cape Cod and did not want to waste any time in thanking you for your amazing work. I think that what sets you apart from others is your amazing hearts, your sincere desire to make a difference in the lives of the participants. I spent a week that I am well aware will change the course of my life. I will forever be grateful. I had a vision, but you guys have ignited the fire, set the passion in motion, and for that I am so grateful. I recommend everyone to take a week off and participate in Be The Change. If you have an idea, it will give you the direction you may be lacking, and if you don't have a clue, it may engage your soul to let you know your purpose in this world. Dont miss the opportunity.

Lydia Berlad (BTC Taupo 2011)

I went on BTC the day after I finished my last exam. The timing was perfect as I had no idea what I wanted to do now that I had finished my degree and I did not know much about BTC. If I am honest I was too busy in the lead up to BTC and did not have very high expectations. BTC however surpassed my lack of expectations over and over again everyday. Each activity was very well thought out, facilitated and all around fantastic and thought provoking. Options and interests that I had for my future were validated and i received a fresh perspective on many questions I had, or opinions I held. The other participants were the best part as they made the vibe at BTC supportive and fun and I felt like it was a great place to be to learn and exchange ideas. By the end of it I still had no concrete idea of what I wanted to do but I had been given a few more avenues to think about and some like- minded people to contact. Overall I think that BTC has been the most enjoyable and beneficial week of my year so far!

Alan Walker (BTC Taupo 2011)

When I first saw the GVN web page and then read through the Be the Change curriculum I thought this is what I needed to do. I expected to learn about the importance of developing any project in the most effective manner. One of my main expectations was to understand how the world of the NGO (charity) works, which was realised. I wanted to understand the different ways of developing processes for delivering a good product. I suppose I also hoped to meet like-minded people from different parts of the world to hear of their projects and look at ways of becoming involved or assisting with the realisation of their dreams.

My first impression of the Be The Change course was that I was out of my comfort zone and would not be considered "clever enough" but through workshops and discussion, I realized that qualifications come in many different ways. By the end of the week I felt refreshed and driven to realise my goals.