Featured Story - February 2005

“Dobry den, Ahoj!” That’s Ceskny for “Hello!” VolunteeerLEON’s Sue Baldwin will be using her English-Czech dictionary a lot this summer. She left Tallahassee for the Czech Republic on June 7.

After retiring from Leon County Human Resources in 2001, “Miss Sue” decided to check-out those illusive creatures with which she had crossed paths for so many years….VOLUNTEERS!

She first signed on with AmeriCorps as the VISTA Volunteer Coordinator for VolunteerLEON’s Youth Corps. Hooked on service, Sue continued to volunteer, and with the support of the Points of Light Foundation, developed VolunteerLEON‘s faith-based program, Project InterFACE. The project has been selected to be replicated at volunteer centers nationwide.

Sue proudly admits to being one of AmeriCorps most active recruiters! Describing the national service program as an opportunity to “give back” to the community, she explains that it’s much like the Peace Corps, only the volunteers work with local communities.

“VISTA stands for Volunteers in Service to America,” Sue adds. “The most important requirements are that you have a passion for change and a desire to help.

Participants are eligible for a benefits package during their service, including a monthly living allowance and health insurance. In addition, they have the option of a $4, 725 education award, or a $1, 200 bonus. “Miss Sue” chose the education award.

“The University of South Florida’s Studies Abroad Program was very interested in my work here at VolunteerLEON,” Sue explained. “As a result, I’ve been selected for an internship with an organization that partners with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Prague. It really is a once in a lifetime opportunity!”

* Volunteer Centers don’t exist in Central Europe. Non-government organizations do the humanitarian work and generally offer three forms of service, a practicum for high school and university students, an alternative for civil service (mandatory military service), and regular volunteers.

Sue is excited about the road ahead. Her responsibilities will include helping to develop and organize leisure-time, cultural, faith-based and educational events, as well as working with the organization to strengthen their volunteer management program. She will also attend classes at the Anglo-American College of Prague.

Knowing Miss Sue, “Czech 101” will definitely include time for exploring the wonderful Czech cuisine, historical sites and vintage shops! “Na shledanou” good friend and co-worker. We wish you the best as you continue to work for the world community one day, one volunteer, at a time.