We're excited to announce...

Earlier this year, we announced the opportunity for supporters of the Iowa Oxfam Action Corps (and for Oxfam in general) to apply to be one of two regional volunteer organizers for April 2013 through April 2014. After an interview with Oxfam America, the newest organizers for the Des Moines area have been selected! Both will attend an organizer training in Washington D.C. in mid-April where they will meet with Oxfam staff, receive training on Oxfam’s campaigns, and lobby Congressional officials. We’re incredibly excited by their enthusiasm and wanted to take an opportunity to introduce them to you...

Aaron

How long have you been volunteering with the Iowa Oxfam Action Corps?

I am a University of Iowa graduate and USMC veteran currently working in the insurance industry, which is how I connected to Oxfam through my company's volunteer match website. That was last September [2012] and I've enjoyed being a part of the Action Corps ever since. 

What are you most looking forward to over the next year?

I'm looking forward to working with the volunteers here in Des Moines on Oxfam's campaigns this year. 

What’s your favorite GROW Method principle?

My favorite part of the GROW Method is Support small-scale food producers, especially local producers & small businesses here in Iowa- you can often see me running around the Farmer's Market here in Des Moines buying one of everything.

Kelly

How long have you been volunteering with the Iowa Oxfam Action Corps?

I contacted the Action Corps here in Des Moines in January, because I wanted to give my time to a cause or to a people needing the extra help. Oxfam fit everything I feel strongly about so it was a no-brainer for me!

What events (farmers markets, concerts, service projects, etc.) are you most looking forward to over the next year?

I am particularly excited for farmers markets. I believe in promoting sustainability, and buying produce from local growers.

What’s one skill you’d like to develop or work on over your year as an organizer?

Public speaking! I want to become more comfortable speaking to crowds.

What’s your favorite GROW Method principle? Tell us about a meal you had (or cooked) recently that met that principle…

I am a HUGE proponent of buying only what you need or will eat. Food is wasted at an alarming rate, and there are people who do not have enough. This is something that was instilled in me from a very young age.

If someone was “on the fence” about volunteering with the Action Corps, what would you tell them? 
We're a friendly group of people who are all here for the same reason, to fight poverty and injustice. I know a lot of folks are worried about the time it may take up, but really all we ask for is a few hours a month, and helping your community is priceless. Change starts at home!