We love FIUTS volunteers
For National Volunteer Week, we recognize the amazing volunteers who contribute so much to FIUTS programs!
This week (April 21-27) is National Volunteer Week. Here at FIUTS, we have so many volunteers who support all of our programs, and we couldn't do what we do without them!
Though we try to create opportunities year-round to recognize and celebrate our volunteers, for National Volunteer Week we decided to do something special. Each staff member who works with volunteers wrote a short note about how much these amazing members of the FIUTS community contribute to our programs. Here's what we have to say:
Mike Rooney
"I would like to thank all of the Wednesday Lunch volunteers who go out of their way to make sure international students get at least one free meal per month. Our amazing team of community volunteers has been the backbone of Wednesday's Lunch for so many years. In my short time at FIUTS I have continued to be amazed by the dedication, enthusiasm, and support that our volunteers bring to Wednesday Lunch. Many, many thanks to the people who have made my job not just easier, but more fulfilling. Go Wednesday Lunch!"
-Mike Rooney, Office & Operations Coordinator
Lin Qiu
"I am constantly inspired by the enthusiastic Education Outreach volunteers who take precious time out of their packed study and work schedules to build a meaningful connection with local Seattle K-12 students. Whether it's writing pen pal letters, or creating a 2-hour cultural lesson plan and visiting a classroom, thank you all for working with me to give these students enriching, cross-cultural learning experience."
- Lin Qiu, Education Programs Coordinator
Brianna Mercker
"Without a doubt, FIUTS programming would not be possible without our amazing Facilitators. You are often the first friendly face to welcome new international students to campus, and I admire your commitment to making their UW experience the best it can possibly be! I am always impressed with the energy, passion, and enthusiasm you put into both the smallest and largest of tasks Thank you for being fabulous, fun, flexible, and forever generous with the time and talent you give to our community."
-Brianna Mercker, Manager of Student Programs
Ellen Frierson
"Since I started working at FIUTS last July, I have been truly amazed by the dedication of the volunteers in our Homestay and Friendship Programs. Hosts, friendship connections, and professional mentors do so much to welcome hundreds of international visitors to Seattle each year - they open their homes, guide newcomers around the city and beyond, and much much more. I regularly hear stories from students about their amazing homestay experiences and about meaningful cross-cultural friendships that often last for many, many years. The FIUTS staff are so grateful for the generosity and warmth of our homestay and friendship volunteers. Thank you!"
- Ellen Frierson, Manager of Community Programs