10 Good Questions with GoVoluntouring [Q&A]
Meet Aaron Smith, the passionate founder of GoVoluntouring.
GoVoluntouring founder Aaron Smith is all about mindful travel
GoVolunteering is more than just a volunteering agency. Along with an advanced search function for users to find the perfect opportunity to do good in the world, the site includes a fundraising tool to remove cost as a barrier for helping those that need it the most. In this 10 Good Questions, founder Aaron Smith tells Goodnet about agents of change, promoting conservation and adding purpose to world travels.
1. What is your organization’s mission?
To promote short-term travel alternatives based on principles of applied conservation and empowerment.
2. What makes you guys different from the rest?
We allow users to quickly find programs based on their unique needs, interests and skill-sets. Our filters are simple to use, and personalise the web experience.
3. Offices or open work space?
Open work spaces! They foster shared knowledge, egalitarianism and team building.
4. What three words describe your organization?
Personal, compassionate, and understanding.
A GoVoluntouring volunteer conducting wildlife research in South Africa
5. What inspires you?
The people on the ground that sacrifice comfort and financial gain to be change agents. Heroes like Jane Goodall, Lawrence Anthony, and Stephen Lewis.
6. What is the best part about your job?
Hearing the personal growth stories when people return from their travels.
7. Does your team eat lunch together?
Lunch? Nah, we eat all day long here on the West Coast.
A GoVoluntouring volunteer installing solar panels in Nicaragua
8. Facebook or Twitter?
We use them both for different reasons at different times.
With that said, Facebook is a more visual medium, and travel is a textural experience that requires as sensory a response as possible, which would make Facebook a more powerful tool for GoVoluntouring.
9. What do you want Goodnet users to know about your organization?
That we are a perfect starting place to learn about, and research, a world full of mindful travel alternatives.
10. How can people get involved?
Visit the GoVoluntouring website, add your personal interests, and see what opportunities exist to add some purpose in your travels.
