Voices from the Field · 2022–2025
In Their Own Words
Reflections from SOSA awardees and honorable mentions on the relationships, communities, and quiet acts of service that shaped their tours.
“What remains most meaningful to me is the realization that even small acts of service can create lasting ripples of hope, belonging, and connection. Whether through remembrance projects, ministry, cultural exchange, or community outreach, I have seen firsthand how relationships built through service endure far beyond a single assignment or posting.”
“Watching refugee children enjoy their childhood again... after a few visits, children are dancing, creating beautiful art, making friends. Ukrainian mothers thank us every day.”
“It allows me to transcend languages and cultures and feel unified.”
“It is communicating with the language of love. They have shown me that the impossible is possible.”
“This is people-to-people diplomacy, more than anything.”
“By volunteering, we exemplify the best of the American tradition of helping and raising our communities — whether in small town USA or at some distant outpost abroad.”
“Serving as a volunteer is a means of giving back to a community that takes care of you.”
“Witnessing the project grow beyond my initial idea into something that the people of Madagascar have embraced is a priceless gift.”