ELISE LASKO-Global Brigades

Passionate Student Makes A Difference in Other Countries
By Jackie Greenberg

Elise with a young friend in Honduras

When I first met Elise Lasko I was impressed by her passion, and level of involvement in organizations at the college. She encouraged me to join Students in Free Enterprise SIFE when we were sophomores, and I have been a dedicated member since.


Elise has been involved on campus for the past four years. She stays busy but still makes time to go to the beach and hang out with her friends on the weekend. She is from Poland, Ohio, and has been vacationing to Charleston since she was a child.


Elise has made the most of her college career by being involved in many different organizations on campus. Through her involvement with on-campus organizations, she has volunteered many times to help others. She is well known in the business school for hard work and interaction with the faculty.


ABOUT ELISE LASKO...

Hometown: Poland, Ohio
Major: International Business and Spanish
Graduation: May 2011

Volunteer activities? current and past?
Current: SIFE, Cougar Microfinance Club, SAA Past: Technology for Africa, Memminger Elementary Lunch Buddy


What do you enjoy most about community service? I really like working one on one with people who are benefiting from the service being provided. For me, the best way to learn is through helping others through service related projects. I also believe that everyone can mutually benefit from each other when working together.


Most memorable volunteer experience? Global Brigades Microfinance brigade in Hondoras and Technology for Africa in Cameroon. It's a tie. Based on my experience traveling to Cameroon two years ago and seeing what an impact seven other SIFE students and I had made by bringing technology and teaching about entrepreneurship, I was very inspired to continue doing projects focused on empowerment. By partnering with the Global Brigades, College of Charleston's Cougar Microfinance Club and Carnegie Mellon students formed our own microfinance brigade. For the week of spring break, we traveled to Honduras where we spent the week in the coffee growing community of El Zurzular, which the global brigades had recently opened a community bank called the Caja Rural. During that week we met with several families and learned about the ways in which they live, work, and save and spend money. By the end of our trip, we had implemented savings incentive programs, increased community membership in the Caja, and had empowered individuals to grow beyond their potential.


What are you most proud of contributing to your organizations? Seeing the contributions that my fellow team members and I made as freshmen and sophomores and seeing then grow to what they have become now. The Technology for Africa project in particular hasmade a huge impact since the planning in 2008. I am so proud to have been a part of the original group and watching how the Tech for Africa 2 team this year continued the legacy by returning to Cameroon this spring break, bringing smart boards, more lap tops, and further perpetuating the project. I never could have imagined as a freshman being able to make a difference abroad, and organizations like SIFE taught me how I can truly make a difference in the world.


Have you personally benefitted from volunteering? All of the organizations I have been a part of go far beyond simply volunteering in the community. Student groups such as SIFE, SAA, and the Cougar Microfinance Club require commitments that push its members beyond what is expected and allow them to truly make an impact on their surroundings. By being a part of these wonderful groups, I have expanded my network in Charleston and beyond, learned how to become a leader, and also discover my passion for sustainable development.


What would you tell someone who was thinking about volunteering? Do not just volunteer because it makes you feel good. Volunteer to help improve a cause or someone's life, and also try to learn from each of the experiences you have while doing this work.


How do you think your friends and family would describe you? They would describe me as really busy, determined, and passionate for the things I love. What are your plans for after graduation? I am currently interviewing for some positions abroad but cannot say my definite plans at this moment. Hint: I really want to work in a Spanish speaking country for a year with a sustainable development organization.


For more information about the Cougar Microfinance Club, please contact: President, Jon Ladner: jeladner@gmail.com Faculty advisor, Dr. Jocelyn Evans: evansj@cofc.edu

ELIZABETH PAPPAS-Communities in Schools

Making a Difference
By Anna Arsova

Elizabeth Pappas is not your typical college girl. She is not only a double major, at the top of her class, and an active member of several student organizations, but she still makes time to relax with friends and enjoy the college life.

Originally from St. Simons Island, Ga., Elizabeth has been volunteering since her high school days. She has participated in raising money for local charities in Georgia, has taken two trips to assist in the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief, built homes for Habitat for Humanity, and is currently a mentor in the Communities in Schools program at the McNair Academy in North Charleston.

Elizabeth’s outgoing personality and motivation to succeed has made her a force to be reckoned with on campus. She is currently a senator in the Student Government Association and has worked on several political campaigns during her college career, including Governor Nikki Haley’s recent successful campaign to become South Carolina's first woman and minority governor.

Elizabeth enjoys making a difference through selfless volunteering acts in her community. Here’s what else she had to say…

About Elizabeth Pappas:

Hometown: St. Simons Island, Ga.

Major: Corporate Communication and Political Science

Expected Graduation: May 2012

What do you enjoy most about community service?

Giving back to my community. My mentorship at the McNair Academy helps me realize how much the people in my community are in need and how every little bit counts. The four hours I spend weekly with the two girls I mentor has made a huge difference in their lives as well as in mine. I’ve learned that taking time from my week to help others may not be “easy” but seeing the improvement in their reading, self-confidence and maturity makes it all worthwhile. There is nothing like knowing you just did something completely selfless that has made a huge impact on someone’s life.

What is your most memorable volunteer experience?

Participating in the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief program was completely amazing and unforgettable. My first trip down was only a few weeks after the disaster and my group and I had the intent of finding a family who needed manpower and help cleaning up their property. We found a man trying to clean his destroyed home alone because he had sent his family to stay with relatives in Texas. He was trying to clean up what was left of his home and move the debris to the street to get it picked up. We spent the next two days with this man, moving pieces of his home to the street to be swept away. When we returned home, my group and I set up a fund for the man and his family to help with any further costs to rebuild his life. Helping that man was one of the best things I’ve ever experienced and made me that much more appreciative of my life.

What are you most proud of contributing to your organization(s)?

The improvements I’ve seen in the girls’ I mentor at the McNair Academy. Their self-confidence and ability to answer a question and not think they are always wrong has made my time worthwhile. I know I have made a difference in their lives and I only hope they know they have done the same for me.

How have you personally benefitted from volunteering?

Volunteering has definitely made me more aware of my surroundings and how much people really do need help, inside and outside of your community. A small contribution of my services or time can be so influential and helpful that it really makes me wonder why more people don’t choose to give a little of their time.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering?

There is nothing more rewarding than giving a small part of yourself and your time for the good of others. Volunteering makes you a better person and learning to give without the expectation of a reward is definitely the most rewarding part.

How do you think your family would describe you?

Independent, driven, and extraterrestrial

What are your plans after graduation?

I’d like to work as a legislative aide in D.C. for a year or two and then consider law school.

More Information

The Communities in Schools Program is a nonprofit, drop-out prevention program aimed at keeping kids in school. For more information about this program, visit the website at http://www.cischarleston.org/.

SUSANNA BRYLAWSKI- American Field Service

To Ghana and Back

By Janae Tanti 

Susanna (center) with two orphans in Ghana 

Susanna Brylawski isn't your typical college girl. Rather than spending free her free time after school hanging out with friends, she's spent her afternoons feeding the homeless. Instead of heading to the beach to get a tan, Susanna chose to dedicate her summer to teaching geography to orphans in Ghana. 

With her crazy, curly hair piled atop of her head, skin spotted with red and yellow paint, and donning welding boots, Susanna took the time from her artistic endeavors to tell me about her love affair with helping people. Eyes wide and bright, she told me of her plans to change the world, armed only with her two God-given hands. 

About Susanna Brylawski...

Hometown: Washington D.C.

Major: Physics

Expected Date of Graduation: Spring 2013

Volunteer Activities:

I volunteered at my church's soup kitchen throughout high school. I prepared and served dinner to over 200 people. In 2010, I traveled to Accra, Ghana to work in two orphanages. The first one, Peace and Love orphanage, I cleaned and pained their dormitories and other facilites. The second place, Hope and Love Foster Home, I taught kids geography. 

What Do You Enjoy Most About Community Service: 

I love knowing that I have helped others at no cost to our society. 

Most Memorable Volunteer Experience: 

My most memorable volunteer experience was at Peace and Love Orphanage. One of my friends volunteering with me became really close with an orphan. During out last day of service, the little girl gave my friend a touching letter saying that she would never forget their friendship. My friend broke down in tears. 

What Are You Most Proud of Contributing to Your Organization(s): 

I am most proud of contributing with just my set of hands. There is nothing I could have accomplished on my own. I could have never accomplished anything by myself, but knowing that my set of hands was part of a greater force makes me really proud. 

How Have You Personally Benefitted From Volunteering: 

Volunteering at my Church's soup kitchen has made me not afraid of the homeless and mentally disabled people. 

What Would You Tell Someone Who Is Thinking About Volunteering: 

I would tell someone who is thinking of volunteering to go for it! There are so many ways to benefit from volunteering. It can only make your community, or other's community, a better place. 

How Do You Think Your Friends and Family Would Describe You: 

My friends and family would describe me as a person tolerable of anything. I am able to get along with anyone and feel comfortable anywhere. 

What Are Your Plans After Graduation: 

After graduation, I would like to set out on my journey of making the Earth a better place. I would like to make people more tolerable of each other and ease the destructive relationship the Earth's people have with nature. 

SAM RANCE-People Against Rape (PAR)

Giving Time to Help Rape Victims

By Clara MacMillan

Sam Rance at work in the PAR office.

When first meeting Sam I noticed how committed she is to all of her work. She is very impressive working two jobs, going to school, working on her bachelor's essay, and volunteering for one overnight shift a month.  She is so dedicated to school that she is graduating a semester early.  Not only is she dedicated to school but she also likes to help other people.  While working for PAR (People Against Rape) she has talked to people who have just been raped or people that were raped in the past and are having a hard time.


About Sam Rance...
Hometown: Andover, Mass
Major: Psychology
Graduation: December 2011

Volunteer Activities: People Against Rape (PAR)- I have been working with them for over a year.


What do you enjoy most about community service:  Doing something that is completely for another person, something that is selfless.  With this organization it is just about helping another person because it is anonymous.  There is no credit to be given to anyone.  Its a pure motivation.


What are you most proud of contributing to your organization:  Just another pair of hands.  Everyone I work with is extremely caring and passionate. In a city you don't realize how important this resource is.Most memorable volunteer experience:  I once had to go to the ER at 6 a.m. when I had to work at 9.  The female cop working on the case didn't believe that the girl was raped.  Later I was walking on campus and the girls step dad stopped and asked me for advice because the law enforcement still didn't believe the girl and she was having a really hard time.

How have you personally benefited from volunteering: I am a psychology major and want to counsel people so this is good experience.  It helps me not to be ignorant about rape, it is important to know how common it is. 

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering:  I would tell them that my biggest hesitation was work but you can always make the time to volunteer.

How do you think your friends and family would describe you:  Strong, driven, compassionate, hard working, and very open.

What are your plans after graduation:  Potentially get  my doctorate in clinical psychology and work with eating disorder patients. For more information about People Against Rape visit http://www.peopleaganistrape.org/

ANSLEE JOHNSON- Palmetto Paws

Student Saving Puppies, One Week At A Time

By Brett N. Skirkanich

Volunteer Anslee Johnson with current foster 'pup'

Each Saturday College of Charlestons senior Anslee Johnson finds herself in both tears of joy and tears of happiness, saying goodbye to one child and welcoming a new one. The difference with her and most mothers? Her children are all puppies! A volunteer since the beginning of 2011, Anslee has committed herself and her time to Palmetto Paws Animal Rescue. Each week she shares her home with some of Charleston’s finest and youngest of furry friends. She has always had a love for animals and this is just another opportunity to show it. Besides animals, Anslee also enjoys traveling and learning about new cultures. She spent her Christmas vacation in Dubai with the College’s business program, and plans to travel to France this summer to continue her studies in art and the language itself. In the fall Anslee will return to Charleston for school as well as Palmetto Paws.

A Closer Look at Our Volunteer...

Hometown: Charlotte, N.C.

Graduation: December 2011

Major: International Business and French

Previous Volunteer Work: I used to volunteer with Friendship Trays, a food delivery program providing for the elderly and disabled.

Today’s Volunteer work: This year I got involved with Palmetto Paws Animal Rescue. It’s amazing! I provide temporary care for dogs and puppies. Each Saturday I receive a new dog or puppy to foster. During the week I prepare the animal for adoption into a permanent home. This helps prevent overcrowding in our animal shelters as well as gives the dog or puppy love and attention. Hopefully when I return the following Saturday a family is ready to adpot. So far I have fostered four dogs; Gia (1yr mutt), Rebel (1 ½ yr dachshund), Kingston ( 3 months shepherd terrier mix) and Charlotte (3 month pitt/shepherd mix.)

How has this experience been so far? : I totally got hooked fostering the first time. I love being able to come home and play with them after class.The puppies are a lot of fun but tons more work!!! The older dogs are much more relaxed and easy to take care of. At the same time its very sad knowing their chance of adoption is much smaller.

What has been the hardest part? Saying goodbye! I cried when my first dog, Gia, got adopted but now I am used to giving them up after a week. I’m happy to see them get adopted into a loving family and to know they will finally live in a stable home. Although it’s hard to let go, I’m excited to know I played a part in their adjustment into this new life.

What has been the most positive part of this service? Fostering is a much more productive use of my time. It helps in decreasing stress and increases positive feelings and mental health. It also enables me to forge bonds with members of the community and increases my social network. I have gained a great sense of responsibility. It has also given me the chance to have a dog/puppy without the full commitment. Whether its because I’m traveling soon, or just having a busy week ahead, its a way to love a pet, during a time I may not be able to really have my own. Fostering is a win-win situation.

What would your friends and family have to say? I have always loved animals so I think it would come as no surprise. In fact, I know they’re happy I found the perfect outlet to help with something I love.

What would be your advice to someone who is debating doing volunteer

work? Do it! Get involved in your community! You’re both giving back, and keeping busy in a positive way. College is a hectic time, but this helps maintain a good schedule besides just academics. It’s a great experience where you can just simply be you, and enjoy.

Do you think this experience will leave a long lasting impression on you?

How so? Yes, absolutely! I will always remember the experience and love the people I have met, I want to stay involved after college and maybe start my own rescue/foster service when I am older.

As a graduating senior, what advice do you offer to an incoming CofC

freshman? Listen to your parents and get involved with something you love!

Thank you Anslee for your time and sharing your experience at Palmetto Paws!

For further information please visit http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/SC316.html

KAITLIN MCWHORTER-- Crisis Ministries

Student-Athlete Gets Head Start On Serving the Community
By Bo Clarkson

For as long as she can remember, Kaitlin McWhorter and her family have been making trips to nearby soup kitchens every holiday season. Kaitlin has since continued such traditions; she wakes up every Tuesday and Thursday at the crack of dawn to prepare breakfast by 5:30 am at the shelter.

Kaitlin is a pioneer. She is a young, active, student-athlete who still finds time to do community service every week between mandatory study halls, practice, travel and meets. Her abilities in track & field include: shot put, high jump, long jump, and the 50 meter dash.

Despite the fact that this is only her first year in college, Kaitlin comes out of the gate in a sprint. She takes advantage of every free moment and plays bingo with senior citizens in her spare time. She also works at two shelters.

About Kaitlin McWhorter…

(Hometown: Baskin Ridge, N.J. Major: Exercise Science Expected Graduation: May 2014)

Past Volunteer Activities: Community Soup Kitchens, New Jersey

Current Volunteer Activities: Kaitlin gives her time to Crisis Ministries, a non-profit organization that provides shelters for people of all ages.

What do you enjoy most about your experience? My favorite part is listening to people’s different stories. You really get to meet quite the variety of people. But hearing what people have been through always amazes me.

Most memorable experience? Well, one young man’s story has really stuck with me. He came to the shelter as an 18 year old. His mother recently died and she was the last person in his family that he had left. He was put on the street with no sense of income, so he turned to Crisis Ministries. He plans to join the Navy.

Proudest Contribution? Well I am developing relationships with people that I would never otherwise get to know, but [laughs] I am just giving back to the community one grit at a time.

Personal benefits from volunteering? It makes me feel good about myself, and it has changed my outlook on a lot of things in the city. I’m not quick to judge people I see on the street. Everyone has their own stories, and why they are where they are.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering? It’s a great experience, try to do it as much as you can. I’m trying to do 100 hours by the end of this year. Right now I’m only at 20.

How would your friends and family describe you? A thoughtful and caring individual.

Plans for after graduation? I want to be in the Peace Corps two years, and after that I am planning on going to grad school for physical therapy with a concentration in special education.

For more information about the type of work Kaitlin does, and how you can get involved, visit http://www.charlestonhomeless.org/.