Convention Intention!
Donation protected
My story includes a dream and that dream is to make a difference. Rotary has effected influential changes throughout the world, as well as within my own life. Because of these inspirations, my intention is to attend the 2015 International Rotary Convention in Sao Paulo, Brasil.
They say "it takes a village to raise a child", and by some degree of relativity, most everyone can agree in the truth of the mantra. For me, however, the mantra is a historical account; I am the child and Rotary is the village.
When I was 17, I was accepted by Eureka Rotary to be the 2008-2009 Outbound Exchange Student-an incredible honor, yet difficult occasion, for I had been orphaned at 14. Overcoming financial and documentary challenges without parents, or a support group, was an inaugural experience for the club, but oh, how they went ABOVE and BEYOND the call of duty to ensure an opportunity abroad for this once homeless, foster youth, 'wild child' they barely knew. Their good intention and belief in me ignited my philanthropic purpose and, ultimately, saved my life.
I consider that year in Brasil the most magical chapter in my book of life, filled with so much growth, learning, and love. Forever will I be grateful, and forever will I 'pay it forward'. Since my return, I have grown cognizant of my place in the world. I am here to serve others, and to do it through healing and communication. I find my reason in helping others suffer less, and in teaching those who are able to do more.
I dream of making a difference in my community and I believe my attendance at the Rotary International Convention as Lost Coast Rotaract's representative will aid in such construction. There, ideas from world leaders and inspirational speakers will be exchanged; there, service projects and their most effective modalities will be discussed; there, the starts of communicable change will be propagated and I want to be a part of it.
I have fantasized of the day I could revisit the country that participated in the molding of my mind. I can think of no better way to be welcomed back into Brasil, and the homes of 'family' and friends, than as a syndicate of service. Until May, I will be working hard to make this dream a reality through various fundraisers and additional work hours. It would me so much to me if you were to make a financial contribution to my endeavor.
They say "it takes a village to raise a child", and by some degree of relativity, most everyone can agree in the truth of the mantra. For me, however, the mantra is a historical account; I am the child and Rotary is the village.
When I was 17, I was accepted by Eureka Rotary to be the 2008-2009 Outbound Exchange Student-an incredible honor, yet difficult occasion, for I had been orphaned at 14. Overcoming financial and documentary challenges without parents, or a support group, was an inaugural experience for the club, but oh, how they went ABOVE and BEYOND the call of duty to ensure an opportunity abroad for this once homeless, foster youth, 'wild child' they barely knew. Their good intention and belief in me ignited my philanthropic purpose and, ultimately, saved my life.
I consider that year in Brasil the most magical chapter in my book of life, filled with so much growth, learning, and love. Forever will I be grateful, and forever will I 'pay it forward'. Since my return, I have grown cognizant of my place in the world. I am here to serve others, and to do it through healing and communication. I find my reason in helping others suffer less, and in teaching those who are able to do more.
I dream of making a difference in my community and I believe my attendance at the Rotary International Convention as Lost Coast Rotaract's representative will aid in such construction. There, ideas from world leaders and inspirational speakers will be exchanged; there, service projects and their most effective modalities will be discussed; there, the starts of communicable change will be propagated and I want to be a part of it.
I have fantasized of the day I could revisit the country that participated in the molding of my mind. I can think of no better way to be welcomed back into Brasil, and the homes of 'family' and friends, than as a syndicate of service. Until May, I will be working hard to make this dream a reality through various fundraisers and additional work hours. It would me so much to me if you were to make a financial contribution to my endeavor.
Organizer
Jamie Carroll
Organizer
Eureka, CA