A Year of Impact: Volunteering with Cuso International in St. Vincent and the Grenadines

When you hear the word volunteer, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Maybe it’s a foreign country, maybe some kind of fieldwork, or maybe you just think of giving back to someone in need. For me, I always pictured volunteering to be all those things and more. I saw myself being able to help at least one person, to show up in a meaningful way, and leave knowing I had made a difference in the world, even if it was in the smallest, quietest way I could.

I also knew it would be something that would change me too, that it wouldn’t just be about what I gave, but what I would learn, feel and carry with me long after the experience ended.

Well, my 12 months volunteering in the Caribbean surpassed my expectations and gave me more than I could have imagined.

Growing Roots in a New Home

The overarching theme for my first few months was definitely “adaptation”. I had to relearn everything from how to get around, the types of food available, where to get groceries, and how to overall just function independently in a new country. It wasn’t always an easy task, but there was always someone around to help if needed. That’s also why I am forever grateful that my first volunteer experience was with Cuso International. From even before I stepped off the plane, I was supported by everyone; from the Country Support Officer to the Project Coordinator to the entire staff at the Conservation Fund. Everyone did their best to help me settle in, and that made the harder days feel ten times easier.

Doing the actual volunteer work

Even though you are in another country and trying to navigate the newness of it all, you still have to remember that you are there for a specific purpose. You are there to use whatever skills or qualifications they saw in you to do the on-site work. I was able to settle into the SVG Conservation Fund pretty quickly because I stayed open to learning and willing to get involved. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when it came to the actual work, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I was included in the day-to-day activities that directly supported the projects underway.

I was able to join numerous site visits, which also gave me the chance to see the island in greater detail. Along the way, I learned things about the environment and conservation that I had absolutely no prior knowledge of, and it really expanded my understanding of the importance of the work being done on the ground.

Counting the Days or Making the Days Count

While there will be many good days, you have got to take the good with the bad. There will be moments of loneliness, missing home, and wanting to be back in your comfort zone. I’ve had my fair share of times wanting to pack it all up and go back home, but what helped was instead of counting down the days, I would always try to make each day count.

I would remind myself that this time would only happen once, and before I knew it, it would be over. So, I focused on appreciating the moments, staying open to every new experience, and really enjoying the people around me. I also made a conscious effort to stay connected to friends and family back home through video calls, messaging, and visits; made so much easier because of the advantage of volunteering with Cuso International and the vacation days that come with it.

At the same time, I learned the importance of reaching out for connection whenever I needed it. You don’t have to go through it alone, even when it starts to feel overwhelming and you’re tired of trying to adapt to everything. It’s important to lean on the people who are there to support you and not be afraid to reach out when you need to.

I wouldn’t change a thing

At the end of it all, I was able to make unforgettable memories while doing something I loved. I met some amazing people, saw some beautiful places, and learned about a unique, vibrant culture. I also had the privilege of being part of telling powerful stories about real people and the lives they live. If I were to recommend volunteering to anyone, I would 100% do so, and Cuso International would be the first organization I would suggest. I honestly wouldn’t have been able to get through my placement without their unwavering support, from monthly calls and weekly messages to the people who guided me along the way. I look forward to many more volunteer experiences, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. I’m happy to say that St Vincent and the Grenadines has now become my second home.