A Match Made in Heaven: Alicia's Story

Today’s teens can find almost anything online.  Searches include a summer job or a college education, a new hairdo or the perfect mate.  An ability to personalize searches and choose the features right for them means that these days, teens looking for the right fit often turn to the internet first to begin a search.

So no one was surprised when Alicia Barroso found a volunteer opportunity online that was the perfect fit for her talents.

After connecting to the Family and Children Faith Coalition online using ChristianVolunteering.org, Alicia decided to take a break from the internet and meet physical needs of children in Miami, FL.

For three or four days a week, Alicia worked alongside other volunteers and staff at the Coalition, lending support to ten summer camps operated in at-risk neighborhoods. Her duties included various office functions, organizing and planning, several media projects, writing stories about our staff and some on-site responsibilities.

Of her experience, Alicia says:

“My experience as a volunteer with FCFC has exposed me to the world of non-profit organizations and revealed all of the hard work that goes into planning programs and events that help those in need. I know I helped several low-income families by volunteering to do all necessary tasks that would allow their children to attend a safe and instructive summer camp at a low cost. These kids will have a good memory of their 2009 summer vacation because they were with other kids, learning, playing and having a good a time. The parents were able to go to work without any preoccupations pestering them. They had their kids safe and cared for in an affordable summer camp that kept money in their pockets to pay for other necessary expenses.”

Rick Sawyer, director of Family and Children Faith Coalition, is ecstatic about the benefit the organization receives by connecting with volunteers like Alicia online.  Because users like Alicia choose the job that’s right for them through advanced search features, he is able to see a “perfect match” take place: teens gaining priceless experience and the organization receiving encouragement and help through the passion of its volunteers.