At Starfish International, every volunteer experiences a journey of growth, empowerment, and cultural exchange. From world-renowned educators to first-time visitors, each leaves with a heart full of unforgettable memories and invaluable lessons. As Phyllis Peterson (Fatou Iman Ceesay), a life-skills educator and advocate for women and girls, beautifully expressed after her time with us:
“Your organization is amazing. If you think I had an impact on you, I believe you had an even greater impact on me. Teaching Protective Behaviors for Children, Boundaries for Youth, and Anger Management was incredibly rewarding. The friendships I developed here are everlasting, and my Gambian name, Fatou Iman Ceesay, reminds me of the ‘Faithful Scholar.’ My time at Starfish is a gift I will treasure forever, even at 80 years old.” – Grandma Phyllis, 2021
Her story reflects the deep mutual exchange that Starfish fosters with every individual who passes through our gates. Like Phyllis, many volunteers find themselves learning just as much from the Starfish family as they impart through their service.
Sean Tomlinson, a returning volunteer from Fairfield University, shared the importance of preserving Gambian culture through storytelling:
“Storytelling is not just entertainment; it’s a way of passing down values and history from one generation to the next. Working with the students to collect and narrate folktales with moral lessons was one of the most meaningful projects I’ve been a part of. Watching the students bring these stories to life with theater and song reminded me of the universal power of stories to connect and inspire.” – Sean Tomlinson, 2019
Like Sean, each volunteer becomes immersed in the beauty and power of Gambian culture, contributing their own unique talents to the Starfish mission.
Marie-Claire Sei, a student from Juniata College, reflects on the strength and resilience of the Starfish girls:
“The hard work and resolve of each Starfish girl humbled me. Their determination and hope lifted me. I saw with my own eyes the world of difference that education and empowerment can have in the lives of these extraordinary young women, and I can only hope that I can bring a fraction of that light with me.” – Marie-Claire Sei, 2017
Many others have echoed similar sentiments, marveling at how service at Starfish has reshaped their worldview. Alaina Boyle from Santa Clara University described her experience as life-changing:
“I think the unconditional love and acceptance from everyone at Starfish had the power to impact me in so many positive ways. My self-esteem, compassion, sense of purpose, and spirituality have all grown immensely. I am forever grateful for this transformative experience.” – Alaina Boyle, 2017
Phyllis Peterson, Sean Tomlinson, and so many others remind us of the profound connections made through volunteering. As we welcome new and returning volunteers, we celebrate the mutual learning, love, and growth that define the Starfish experience.
We invite future volunteers to join us on this journey. Whether it’s teaching classes, engaging in cultural projects, or simply sharing your passion, Starfish will give you the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful while learning more than you ever expected.
For more information or to receive our Volunteer Information Packet, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Ms. Jennifer Greenman, at jennifer.greenman@starfishinternational.org.
