Well, where to begin? My journey with CISV probably started back in the late 1960s when my parents were forward-thinking enough to sign up to (what was then) a relatively new organisation in Leeds. From that time to this, we have been involved at various levels and what an experience it has been!
I was lucky enough to be selected to go on Village in 1973. I often think how radical it was for my parents to embrace the idea of sending off their 11-year-old daughter to a camp for four weeks with none of today’s technology and contact only by letter. My goodness, I appreciate all their hard work and support for CISV over many, many years.
Being on Village was a life-changing experience to be sure – international travel was not as commonplace as it is today. It opened my eyes in so many ways to the world and I struck up friendships that have endured the test of time. I would like to think I came back a more independent, self-confident and humble person, and my memories of that time are as strong today as they were then – lullabies, trips out, National Evenings, flag time (I could go on!).
Meeting so many people from far-flung places was extraordinary and, whilst maybe not appreciative of it at the time, it has equipped me with skills that have stayed with me to this day – I have learned to listen, appreciate difference, consider others and always to contribute wholeheartedly to whatever I am involved in.
My participation continued after Village – as a member of Junior Branch (the local group meetings), a Junior Counsellor (a special role for 16-17 year olds on Village camps), a leader (twice), Staff, committee member (I could go on). I stepped down from the committee 4–5 years ago when my children were in their twenties.
So struck was I by the experience that I was delighted when my own children were able to go on Village – one has since been a leader twice too and now helps out with CISV London where she lives. We have loved being a host family when CISV Leeds and West Yorkshire has hosted Village and enjoyed many fundraising events.
I watch with interest as CISV continues to make a wonderful impact in young people’s lives, morphing to ensure that activities focus on today’s issues, without losing sight of Doris Allen’s vision.
It is a struggle in the busy lives we lead today to take on more responsibility, but we owe it to our children to support them and CISV Leeds in helping its work continue into the future. Please offer all the support you can. It is not just for the kids – we can all learn from its goals and, you never know, you may have the best fun you’ve had in years!