When I met the Do Good Lab volunteers 3 years ago, what struck me the most was their passion and dedication. When I found out about their mission, I thought it was sustainable, and empowering--and that's why I've been a volunteer since. It is truly inspiring to work with, and be friends with these people who care about helping others in such remote places in a sincere, non-paternalistic way.
My experience with DGL is that it has a core group that is very much dedicated to the organization’s mission. Each person brings different skills, from vision setting all the way through execution. Together, they have made a true impact by successfully raising money and putting it to work on grassroots endeavors around the world. An area for improvement is more timely communications with the broader community about new developments and upcoming events. Overall, though they can talk your ear off about their projects and cite obscure stats about developing countries, DGL peeps are a lively, social bunch who put on fun events and like to have a good time while doing good!
Do Good Lab is a fantastic nonprofit. I know everyone says this but I whole-heartedly stand by this statement. The nonprofit started with a group of friends who wanted to make a real and direct impact. Bonded by the belief that folks in their own communities understand best how to solve their own problems, DGL listens and chooses projects from all across the globe. Starting with a budget of zero, each volunteer does their part to bring the project from paper to reality. Everyone plays a part... from connecting with the communities, researching the project, planning fundraising events to motivating volunteers... every bit of energy is dedicated to bringing the project to life. It's undoubtedly work, but you meet amazing folks from all over the world and as cheesy as it sounds, you make genuine friendships
Do Good Lab is a unique non-profit. It is a wonderful place to get your hands dirty in learning about international development. Anyone can come into this organization and make an impact. It doesn't take months or years of training and red tape. Also, the philosophy of this organization is one that dignifies those it helps. My experience with the wonderful people in DGL, though far from perfect, has been very positive overall.
I've been involved with this group as much as I've been able for the past few years, and I'm consistently awed by the amount of passion involved. People in DGL genuinely care about the world and are looking for ways to find groups that have ideas about how to make the world a better place. I'm honored to volunteer with them and I'm so glad to call them not only my fellow volunteers, but also my friends.