Global Student Voices, Season 2 Episode 14: Can One Week Abroad Change Your Life? Ethical Service with Globe Aware Founder Kimberly Haley-Coleman

In this episode, host Scott ”Coach” Martin sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to explore the world of short-term international service learning. Kimberly's organization, Globe Aware, offers one-to-two-week ”turnkey” volunteer projects in 26 countries, handling all the logistics so participants can fully immerse themselves in the culture and the work. Projects are concrete and definable, from installing floors for single mothers to assembling wheelchairs for landmine victims.

A central theme of the conversation is the shift towards ethical service. Kimberly notes that today's students are asking insightful and critical questions, such as ”Who asked us to do this?” and ”Are we just pretending to be heroes?”. She explains Globe Aware's model is built on a foundation of respect and partnership:

• Locally Driven: All projects are chosen and driven by local grassroots organizations based on their community's needs, using local materials and methods.

• A Mindset of Humility: Volunteers serve with a community, not for them, recognizing that locals are the experts and that the experience is a profound learning opportunity. Volunteers often feel they gain more than they give.

Coach Martin and Kimberly discuss how these immersive experiences are transformative in a way that reading about a culture can never be. While the trips build skills and resumes, their real value lies in providing a ”new window and perspective into a world,” fostering an empathy that reformulates how volunteers see their connection to others. This growth is nurtured through built-in morning and evening reflections that help participants process cultural differences and cultivate gratitude for things they might take for granted, like running water.

This episode is a must-listen for students, parents, and educators interested in meaningful global engagement. You'll hear practical advice on:

• Who can participate: Programs are open to high school students, college students, and even multi-generational families, with no special skills required.

• The ideal volunteer: The single most important characteristic is flexibility—the ability to adapt to cultural norms and go with the flow.

• Getting started: The trips can serve as a ”cultural appetizer,” a well-organized way to test the waters of international service. For those nervous about culture shock, destinations like Costa Rica or Mexico are great starting points.

• Funding your trip: Discover practical ways to fund the experience, including fundraising, teacher support, and leveraging corporate matching programs from parents' employers.

Ultimately, these short-term trips have a ”long tail,” creating lasting change by investing in ”soft power,” building cross-cultural understanding, and countering misinformation one personal connection at a time.

To learn more about Globe Aware and find a program that's right for you, visit:

• Website: www.globeaware.org

• Phone: 214-824-4562