Last year at about this same time I
began searching the web for ways I could get involved with social justice
causes in Chicago. I Googled away, but
kept coming back to Oxfam America Action Corps.
I’d always been interested in Oxfam’s work in the U.S. and around the
globe, so figured I’d look further into
it. Turns out, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made; this past year
has been full of amazing experiences, loads of education, opportunities I would
have never expected to have (such as lobbying in D.C. and attending the WorldFood Prize dialogue!), lots of travel, groovy concerts, many absolutely
terrific new friends, and best of all, a feeling of making a difference as I
joined Oxfam’s Action Corps in the fight to end world hunger.
So I sat down today to write a blog
about why I think everyone should at least consider applying to become an OxfamAction Corps Organizer when I came across an awesome blog written by a member
of the Iowa Oxfam Action Corps. They really
couldn’t have said it any better (so I’m not even going to try!). Check it out:
Top Five Reasons Why You Should
Attend Oxfam Action Corps Organizer Training
5. It’s Free! The
4-day training held in Washington D.C. covers your travel, hotel, and meals.
The staff at Oxfam America go to extreme lengths to make the training a
memorable, inspirational, and educational experience. They recognize the value
their volunteer organizers bring to the mission of Oxfam and you’ll be treated
very well. In return, they ask for your one-year commitment to building a
movement for social justice in your city.
4. It’s in Washington, D.C.!
What an incredible place filled with so much history! You'll be in classroom
style training most of the day but your evenings will be free so you'll have
the chance to explore D.C. with your newly made friend/organizers. And, in your
final day at organizer training, you'll walk across Capitol Hill to lobby your
congressional representatives and ask them to support a world that's fair for
everyone.
3. You Can Make a Difference!
Your energy and passion for social justice will take you to some amazing places
over your year with Oxfam. And it all starts at organizer training. You'll
learn why these issues matter in today's world and that only through our
combined efforts can we truly change the world. Organizer training brings you
closer to your own personal values and reinforces the notion that we're better
together than we are divided.
2. You'll Meet New People!
You’ll meet some amazing individuals (like yourself) hand-picked by Oxfam
leadership to spread awareness about social justice issues in major cities
across the U.S. Be prepared to be inspired by their energy, commitment, and
passion for making the world we live in a better place for all.
1. Opportunities Abound!
You already have the power to be a leader – maybe you need that extra push to
develop your skills or maybe you’re already a seasoned organizer and are
looking for a new opportunity. With Oxfam Action Corps, that’s exactly what you
get – opportunity. Most of all, the opportunity to grow as a community leader
and as a private citizen. The leadership team at Oxfam
America is ready to help you succeed with the organizer training and
support throughout your year. Your year will be what you make of it, so make it
a good one and have some fun!
(The above 5 reasons are from the Iowa Action Corps,
found here.)
Sounds awesome, right? If you’ve been on the fence about joining us,
or are looking for a way to get involved in a great volunteer organization in Chicago, definitely take 5-10 minutes
and fill out the application here. All applications are due on February 14th, so don't wait!
If
you’re still unsure, join us for our monthly meeting (everyone is welcome,
always!):
When? January 17th at 6pm
Where? Corner Bakery on on 56 W. Randolph
St. in the loop
How? Look for our "Oxfam" table sign!
The meetings are very
casual and we love meeting new faces, so come check us out!
-J.Benoit
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