By Nandhika Kamalakkannan (YES 2019-2020, India, hosted with World Link in Visalia, CA)

My name is Nandhika and I’m proud to be an ambassador of India. It’s already been several months here in my dream place and I still can’t believe I’m in America.  December 5 was International Volunteer Day. I’ve been volunteering regularly because I love to help people and make new connections with people. Volunteering has really helped me make friendships with people from around the world. As everyone says this year is a life changing year but I could also say it’s a time where we learn more about ourselves and how to balance everything in our life.

I’ve volunteered in more than 50 places and conducted 165 hours of volunteering! I helped raise funds for the Relay for Life by doing a carwash with my other exchange friends! I worked with a project for veterans on Veterans Day we made 150 thank you cards for veterans! And now I’m planning to raise funds for the homeless by hosting an Indian cooking class. I also volunteer regularly at church for the kindergarten kids at Sunday school. I just want to wish everyone happy international volunteering day and keep on rocking guys never ever give up! I really thank the YES program, AFS India, State Department and WorldLink for believing in me and encouraging me to reach success.  I also thank my host family and coordinators for the amazing opportunities!! All the best and keep making YES program proud!! HAPPY INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERING DAY