Meet the Author

Hi there!

My name is Stephen Thompson, and I am the Senior Manager of Program Quality and Evaluation at Cross-Cultural Solutions.  I've worked at the HQ office in New York for about 6 years.  My role is to constantly think of how we can improve the quality and content of our Programs in-country.  I work with the Directors and staff based in-country on developing ways that we can further develop and expand our volunteer impact in a respectful and sustainable manner.  I'm currently undergoing training to become TEFL certified.

Working at an Elderly Center in Lima, Peru

I first was a volunteer with CCS in Ghana, back in 2002 - so very soon I will be celebrating my 10 year anniversary!  In the 10 years since becoming involved with CCS, I've volunteered in our programs in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, and I've worked in daycare centers, Elderly facilities, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation clinic, a Junior Secondary School, and an organization that assists those living with mental and physical disabilities, among other placements.  Despite their differences, I've noticed two consistent similarities at each place:

• I've felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety when arriving for my first day.  This is normal!  My best advice is to relax, smile (since facial expressions can often send messages better than words), and remember that all they expect from you is your best effort.
• At every Partner Program, I've met staff members who are committed to their work and excited to have me help!  Any time that I started to doubt my abilities, it has helped to remember that I was there to help the staff of the organization as much as I was there to help its beneficiaries.  It has been an honor to work alongside of such amazing people!

It is with this experience that I'll approach writing this blog, and I hope you find it helpful!  Please feel free to contact me with any other ideas or tips you have from your own experience- I'm sure that future volunteers will appreciate it!

In partnership,

Stephen