Service opportunities were not planned as part of the BQEF program, but reports from volunteers who have already served illustrate how Spanish-speaking Friends have found (or created) opportunities for themselves.

Sarah Kaufman (shown with her host family in the photo) spent four months in Bolivia in the fall of 2003. In addition to teaching English during her stay, Sarah also helped write, illustrate, and/or revise English texts for grades one through five. Sarah observed of her stay there: "BQEF can make a difference, and already has. Of course, the financial support is much needed, but the energy, initiative, motivation, and hope that comes with BQEF are just as important."

	Sarah Kaufman (right) & her Bolivian host family, 2003 Click image to view an enlargement.

"I worked closely with two Bolivian Quaker English teachers during my four months in La Paz. We co-taught grades 1-12. These two women amazed me with their dedication, in spite of draining schedules and extremely inadequate resources and support. I admire their strength & persistence in teaching and pursuing their own education. Emma and Cecilia are part of the internal spark that is vital to making BQEF successful."

"Since returning from La Paz, I think most about the people who became my friends and family while I was there. My host family really was home to me. It was wonderful to become part of this Bolivian Quaker family and to get to know all 3 generations of them."

Three students from Guilford College spent three months in 2003 teaching English. During the day they taught students at the three Friends comprehensive schools, then spent their evenings teaching adults, including Bolivian English teachers. Volunteer Natosha Knight wrote: "We had time to really help the professors improve, and that can be passed on to the kids. I feel we may have helped in a long-term sense as well as in the short-term."

Additional information on housing and other aspects of volunteering in Bolivia compiled by an experienced BQEF volunteer.