June 2018: Volunteer of the Month

June's volunteer of the month is Caroline Dempsey. Caroline is entering her senior year at Washington University in St. Louis and is studying Environmental Policy and Writing. She began volunteering this summer, after completing an environmental focus study abroad program in Australia. We asked her a few questions to highlight her hard work and dedication.

Q: What originally drew you to the organization?

A: I knew I wanted to work in some way with environmental justice causes, and once I read the mission statement of GGO, doing this from an outdoor education perspective really got me excited. 

Q: Do you have a favorite experience or memory of your time as a volunteer?

A: Going on the field trip to the bird sanctuary and seeing the students in pure astonishment and fascination at the beauty of the birds in front of them.  

Q: Why do you like volunteering with GGO?

A:  I like volunteering with GGO for two main reasons. The first is that the students have an electric and whimsical energy about them that is incredibly contagious. I find myself leaving the classroom each day inspired and uplifted because of them. Secondly, I have had many therapeutic and life-changing experiences in nature, and any time I can help share my passions with others, I feel I am helping these students in some way for the rest of their lives.

Q: Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?

A: First of all, definitely become a volunteer. Second, as much as you want to become friends with the students right away, it definitely takes some time to become comfortable. Be patient and good times are in your future!

Q: What is something you are passionate about/love talking about?

A: Basically anything having to do with food, spiritual theories/philosophical questions, telling adventure stories, health/fitness