Stefanie and I are gearing up for an incredible adventure in June 2025 with Be The Change Volunteers, a nonprofit that’s all about making a difference through education. We were invited to be part of this project thanks to Stefanie’s business connections, and we’re both beyond excited to join this volunteer project as “Changers”.

Be The Change Volunteers is a fantastic nonprofit focused on helping communities through education, without any religious affiliation—just pure, genuine support for those who need it most.

build - educate - change

”Be The Change Volunteers (BTCV) is a development aid non-profit organization dedicated to creating better education opportunities worldwide. We believe that creating better education, creates better jobs and a better job is the only way out of poverty. Our mission is accomplished by partnering with local communities to address infrastructure, equipping, and training needs.  We operate primarily in remote underdeveloped communities that have a demonstrated need for educational facilities and resources.  Our organization is unique because we do not simply send funding to these communities.  We provide on-site, in-depth needs assessment to help identify long term solutions to be completed in phases over time.  Teams of generous self-funded volunteers that we call Changers,  travel to partner communities to participate in our education-focused service projects and unique and profound cultural exchange opportunities.“

Our volunteering will take us deep into the Amazon River region of Peru near the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve, where we’ll be helping to build a school in a small, remote village. It’s going to be quite an adventure! We’ll start by flying into Lima, then catch a flight to Iquitos, and finally, take a several-hour boat ride to reach our camp. Once we’re there, the real work begins, and we can’t wait to roll up our sleeves and get started. I have been to the Braziilian Amazon raionforest including way up the Rio Negro, but this will be my first time near the headwaters of the mighty Amazon river and the amazing rainforest.

Building a school in such a remote area is going to be challenging logistically, but it’s also incredibly beneficial and impactful for both those needing the school as well as those volunteering. The chance  construct a school to  contribute to the education of kids is something that hits close to home for both of us. We’re ready to face whatever comes our way and make a meaningful impact.

After the project wraps up, Stefanie and I are planning to explore a bit more of Peru. We’re hoping to check out more of the amazon jungle based at the Amazon Research Center ”ARC”, then head up high to the Andes including the city of Cusco at 11,200 feet elevation, visit the iconic Machu Picchu,hike to the beautiful to Lake Humantay, 7 Lagoons,  and take in the stunning Rainbow Mountains “Montaña de Siete Colores - Vinicunca.”

If you’re on the lookout for a nonprofit that’s really making a difference, I can’t recommend Be The Change Volunteer enough. It’s a fantastic organization that gives people like us the chance to help others in a hands-on, impactful way.

We’re looking forward to sharing more about this experience and the difference this project will make.