Heading South
Site placement announcement day is another big day of anticipation for us volunteers. The feeling reminded me of Navy boot camp, where everyone was anxious to learn where they were going to be stationed. I found out I was going to Mykolaiv, a city of a half million people, in southern Ukraine. When I located it on the map, I was excited to see that it’s not far from the Black Sea, and I had visions of surfing in Odessa. But now having been there and seen the lack of ride-able surf, I don’t think it’s going to happen.
I also found out I was assigned to work with a veterans NGO—the Ukrainian Association of ATO Participants with Disabilities (“ATO” stands for “anti-terrorist operations”). I was a little nervous because my first thoughts were of caring for wounded soldiers and I had no idea how I’d be able to help. But helping others was a big part of why I signed up and this opportunity sure fit the bill.
The organization was aware that I had an internet marketing background, so one of the first things on tap was helping them redesign their website (www.atomk.com.ua). Also, as part of their business incubator program, I
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