What’s in it for me? - Sara Laflamme, Jaagte Raho! Volunteer - York University, Canada

I came to Janaagraha with a list of goals, measurable in their success, but as always it is the things you cannot measure that come to mean the most. The cracks in the sidewalk may seem narrow but they go deep; such was my experience at Janaagraha. I walked along the path and learned much along the way but it was the challenges, the cracks, I faced personally and professionally, that have given depth to this experience. Working with the Jaago Re! team was a wonderful experience. The passion and enthusiasm of the team was contagious and the warmth and sincerity they personified brought so much joy to my time with them and confidence in the work they are doing. I have come to learn, understand and accept that mistakes happen. Work, as is life, is a learning process. I feel that although I have made mistakes along the way there was a sense of encouragement that has led to increased faith in myself and my abilities. I have recognized the value of differing opinions and the challenges it can present when working together. But I have also come to see that honest and real discussion, not being afraid to put your thoughts and ideas out there, allows for ideas to come together and flourish. Lastly this experience for me has been one of self reflection where I have had to be honest with myself, about myself. A critical look at the work I have done has led me to realize both my strengths and weaknesses and pushed me to face both and learn from them. I came to Janaagraha with a list of goals, but I leave with a list of experiences that cannot be measured in their value.