My Upcoming Summer Adventure!

Aside from teaching and running, another main passion of my life is international travel. After teaching in Shanghai, China in 2005 and in rural India in 2006, I am now getting the travel itch again -- it is time to go explore somewhere new and teach there during the summer!


My colleague, Catherine, and I recently began exploring possibilities for an upcoming summer adventure and decided on Korea! Both of us have always wanted to go there and know there is no better time to do so than now! We will be traveling there and volunteering through a reputable organization called CADIP, the Canadian Alliance for Development Initiatives and Projects (www.cadip.org). 


Here are the exciting initial details of their new project we will be participating in:

ORGANIZING SUMMER CAMPS FOR CHILDREN ON JEJU ISLAND
       Jeju Island          July 26 - August 7, 2010

Volunteer project: The project is organized together with “Gotjawal Small School” since 2007. Jeju Island, also known as the Hawaii of the East, is a popular tourist destination. However it has a tragic history caused by ideological conflict. The school emphasizes the importance of "Peace and Life" and educates local children and youth in beautiful Jeju nature. The aim of this volunteer project is organizing two summer camps with the help of the international volunteers.

The main tasks will be supporting the coordinators run 2 summer camps under the theme of Peace and Life. During the two camps being in nature and think about importance of “Peace and Life” with veriety of activities, such as organizing peace concert and making small monument in Peace memorial park.

Special requirements: Should enjoy being out in the nature and working with children.

Language: English

Free time: Camping at Dolharubang (Icon of Jeju) park. Picnic at the beach.

Accommodation: A rented house in town.

Location: Jeju Island; one hour flight from Seoul. Travelling by ship is also possible.

Terminal: Jeju Domestic airport (1 hour from Inchoen international Airport)

Age range: 18 - 35 years old
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How awesome does this sound?! As a teacher, I fully believe that our summer time allows us a multitude of opportunities for personal and professional growth. So, why not take some time to take our craft abroad to help benefit children who truly need our help?!

I had a long talk with my father today and discussed how I really want to take this kind of unforgettable volunteer trip every summer while I still can (before children!). I have decided to put aside a portion of my paycheck whenever possible to fund these kinds of experiences.

Let the adventure begin! Now if we could just book the flight easily....