Rising Star Outreach: My Reason with Klorisa Jolley

Thursday, July 31, 2014

I've always felt that it is important for people to know that they can change the world. I think everyone deserves to know that they have the ability to be and become the individual they want to be. Rising Star Outreach encompasses that. The organization empowers, educates, lifts, and is sustained and driven forward by the very people that it is assisting.

Klorisa and Saroja

While researching non profits implementing microfinance programs I came across Rising Star Outreach. Not only did this organization offer economic opportunity but it aimed to lift the society as a whole through medical treatment, emotional healing, and education. It was not a hand out, it was a tool to help individuals identify what they are capable of, and empower them to obtain it. It was everything I was looking for. After reading through the entire website and investigating the actual impact of the program I knew I needed to be a part of it.

I soon found my way to India as the medical long term coordinator. I served throughout the weeks in the leprosy colonies. I would return to the volunteer hostel wishing I could only do more. It was an honor to work with those affected by leprosy. I wanted to serve, completely, selflessly, but I couldn't help returning from the colonies and not feel as though it benefited even more. I was filled with gratitude, acutely aware of others needs, compassionate, and constantly felt like I wanted to give the world a hug. Yes the world, and I would start with the patients of the leprosy colonies. Shortly after my time with the people of India an opportunity to continue serving them presented. I was thrilled to put it mildly. I now am fortunate enough to work alongside the very people who make this program possible. I am reminded daily of the power if individuals across the world, and look forward to the changes for good we can and will accomplish individually and together. To those skeptical of my world changing hugs: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it's the only thing that ever has."-Margaret Mead