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HVC Gave Me a New Perspective

HOPEww Volunteer Corps • October 29, 2018

I Never Would Have Thought Going On A HVC Would Change My Life This Way

Growing up in the church, I had always heard of HYC/HVC and how it has changed so many peoples lives, but to me I didn’t understand why. From my perspective I saw HYC as just a “service trip” or a “volunteer trip” where people spend two weeks serving the community. I never truly saw the impact HYC had on peoples lives until I went on a HYC in La Paz, Bolivia in 2015. That HYC changed my life and it propelled me to view service through a new perspective.

One specific moment from that HYC touched my heart like never before. One of kids in the hospital we visited showed me the purpose of joy. His name is Pablitto and he was 5 years old at the time. He was in the hospital because he suffered from a terrible accident and lost his legs. Even though he was going through a very challenging time in his life, he was ecstatic to see me and showed me so much love. He made it clear to me me that going through life should not be about looking at the bad things that life may bring, but choosing to cherish every day and every opportunity I am given in life.

This transformed my view of the world, the people I interacted with, and everything in my life . From HYC, I had a desire for service that revolved around imitating Jesus and how he served and loved people. Because of that I have had the opportunity to work for HYC and work with HOPE worldwide as a Global Service Intern to go and lead HYC’s. This past summer I had the privilege to go to Hawaii, and now I get to go to the Philippines in December, then go to Kenya in July. I would not have had these opportunities if it wasn’t for God reconstructing my heart through HYC.

I thank HYC for providing me with the future that I have. Right now, I am a student at Virginia Tech studying Financial Planning. HYC put it on my heart to pick a career path that is going to impact the lives that I interact with. I desire to become someone that can help individuals and families plan for a successful future without having any doubts and fears. I hope to take what I am learning in school to countries that do not have the opportunity to learn and manage their future. I hope to build a sustainable future for businesses and families.

I encourage everyone to take a leap of faith and go on an HYC/HVC. Experience life through a new perspective. It is an incredible opportunity to meet people from around the world that have a desire to make a sustainable impact in the world that we live in.

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We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and brother, Dave Tomlinson. Dave was a beloved part of the HOPE worldwide family who served in many capacities throughout his time with us, most recently as Chief Operating Officer before his retirement. He also played an important role in our Global Disaster Response and Community Service Brigades teams, serving alongside his wife, Angela. More than the roles he held, Dave was a cherished friend whose warmth, kindness, and genuine spirit touched so many people. His care for others was evident in the way he served, led, and built relationships with people around the world. Dave had a remarkable ability to encourage, uplift, and connect with people, reflecting God's love in both his leadership and his friendships. We will miss Dave deeply and are grateful for the many ways he gave of himself to HOPE worldwide and to the amazing people we get to serve. We’re holding Angela and their family close in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Dave’s presence will be deeply missed, but his faith, love, and example will remain in our hearts forever and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.