In an interview with RESULTS Canada's Public Engagement Organizer, Elizabeth Dove, Victoria group volunteer Fran talks about her voyage from cynicism to a firm belief that poverty will end and that average citizens will help make it happen...
How did you become aware of poverty issues and why did you choose to get involved?
I have always been aware of poverty issues. I took seriously what every parent of that generation said to their kids. "Finish your dinner. The children in China are starving." I can remember crying about that in the middle of the night when I was little. My friend, Oliver Mark, invited me to a Results event about 8 years ago. I was an active Hunger Project Volunteer for many years and participated in the CARE foster child program so I was aware of the statistics, etc. but was a bit cynical about the possibility of the end of poverty.
What did you find attractive about RESULTS?
On my way into the Results event, I walked past posters and material about microfinance, a new idea to me. The fellow at the booth explained to me how microcredit works. I got it. It just made sense to me. I am a Mom and I know I would do anything to make sure my children were safe and healthy. For the first time I saw a way people could create a way out of poverty using their own ideas, efforts and needs. I believe that people need to make their own way, not be told how they "should" run their lives. The other part of Results that appealed immediately was the letter writing. I like the hands on of sending letters to politicians and newspapers to influence the people who make the decisions. I also really appreciate the good research that goes into the action sheets. I feel confident that I am writing in good faith and not just ranting, which is important to me.
What is your favourite RESULTS “moment”?
Meeting Stephen Lewis at a Results event, I helped organize. Listening to Stephen’s speech, I understood that we, our Results group, were a part of a large community of people all over the world working towards a world that works for everyone. I believe now that it can be done and it will be done.
Which RESULTS issues are you most passionate about?
Microfinance, sanitation and education for girls.
What have you gained by volunteering with RESULTS?
I have gained a sense of making a difference in a small but real way. Active democracy. I have gained knowledge about the issues. I have learned to speak and write about the issues that have troubled me. Not a small part has been the wonderful friendships I have made in our group. We are all so different in the world but in our group, in our meetings, we all are passionately attached to the idea of a world where no one goes hungry to bed. I just love that.
