How To Stay Involved
Implementing lasting change as an international development worker can be challenging when your time in the field is limited. We like to think of your fieldwork as simply the beginning of your opportunity to make an impact. Your community at home will be eager to learn about your experience and the wisdom you gained. These opportunities create a powerful platform for you to fundraise and advocate on behalf of your host organization and community. The work you do as an alumni of FSD can grow the impact you achieved in the field while inspiring countless others to follow in your footsteps as an agent for global change.
Fundraising
Creating fundraising campaigns for the continuation of your project work and the growth of your host organization is an extremely valuable way to maintain your support while developing practical job skills that many employers seek. Below are some examples of what FSD alumni have done and are doing:
- Mia Lombardo continues to support her project work with the Society of Orphans and AIDS Networking in Kenya. She has raised over $4,000 for her project by presenting at her local Rotary Club and being chosen as their annual international fundraising project. Mia alos sets up booths at various community events to raise awareness and funds for her host organization.
- Alana-Dawn Eirikson hosted a fundraiser called Salsa Soul Shaker at a local venue. Salsa lessons were given and a silent auction raised funds for her organization - Pro Habitat in Bolivia.
- Robin Anderson-Wood and Ana Delessio-Parson have held numerous events to rais $25,000 for their Arco-Iris Project in Argentina. Some examples include cocktail parties with friends, auctions at local events, fundraisers through Facebook and Change.org, and tango nights at dance clubs in San Francisco.
Advocacy
Sharing your experience with your community or on your campus is a powerful way to inspire others to become aware of global issues and take action. The Advocacy section provides you with a variety of creative strategies to promote sustainable development and spread awareness of the opportunities that exist for people to become involved. Implementing these strategies will help you build a community of like-minded individuals, cultivate your speaking skills, and build your resume.
