Amazing and worthwhile experience! Do it!

I arrived about three weeks ago to volunteer at EDV’s here in the Philippines. EDV is momentarily supporting a local organisation called Buklod Tao which is focused on helping people in areas vulnerable to flooding and disasters by running disaster risk reduction and prevention management.

From the very first moment I felt very welcomed and integrated in the EDV team. The atmosphere is comfortable and pleasant. We are working during the day either in the office or directly on site at Buklod Tao, and relaxing in the evening and just having a good time. But not only the EDV team makes me feel so comfortable here, it is as well the experience with the locals and the Filipinos as such. Always helpful and smiling, making your stay as much as pleasant as possible.

EDV is running different projects from capacity building to different programs, such as youth or IT programs. I am supporting right now the paralegal team from Buklod Tao by running a paralegal program in different areas, e.g. Violence against women and children, allocation of funds for disaster risk prevention and management as well as procedures against activities with negative environmental effects. Since Buklod Tao showed interest in these areas, and already had started to work on some of them, they were very pleased to have a lawyer to support them with their issues and help to enforce their interests and legal rights, as well as giving them advice and directions how to proceed on their own once I have to leave.

My experience working with them is just amazing. I have seldom seen so much commitment and enthusiasm, especially the variety of their ideas and their straightforward approach to tackle the problems impressed me massively. Besides, the people are so thankful for any help and support with their problems and issues - I was stunned how much they show their gratitude and it demonstrates me that it was definitely the right decision to join EDV in their project here.

This is one of these experiences you will never regret. Just do it.