Volunteer in Poland speaks to Kiwanis

A Summer Internship with Josiah Venture introduced Kyle Yates to the beauty of Poland. This organization began 20 years ago and now organizes mission trips to 14 countries. The program provides English, music, and sports camps to young people. Yates has had five trips to Poland where twice he has spent summers conducting classes in English. He shared his enthusiasm for this experience when he spoke to the Kiwanis club recently.

Yates explained that English is a second language for Poles and is a required subject in school. The students need practice with native English speakers in order to gain confidence and pass a rigorous test for graduation. This practice is offered in the week-long camps where Yates has volunteered. The camps offer games and sports so English is learned in a fun and active manner.

Parents are anxious for their children to become fluent in English because it opens up opportunities for employment at a higher salary. Yates said translators are always needed and these jobs pay well. Some graduates find employment in Britain and are able to send money back to their families in Poland.

It costs Yates $5,000 to spend a summer at these camps in Poland, and he has been grateful for the support of his family, friends, and church, who have donated funds to help him. He feels he has benefited much more than the people he has served. The experience of working with the people in Poland has made him a better person and given him a deeper faith. He told Kiwanis he feels he has been blessed by the experience.

Yates is currently employed as Community Coordinator for Salvation Army. Kiwanis helps Salvation Army with Coats for Kids and other programs that benefit children in the community.

Kiwanis meets each Wednesday at noon. During January the meetings are at Don Juan's. The club is seeking new members and welcomes anyone to visit a meeting to see if they might be interested in joining. Call 822-5379 for information.