Alumni 2004
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Ms.
Lori Calmbacher "I am indebted to RFP-USA for the amazing experience I had while working there. Everyday, I had something new and interesting to learn - about non-for-profits, interfaith work, religious traditions, program development - you name it. What I found to be most unique about the organization, however, was its interest in incorporating the ideas and passions of young adults into its work. It is a rare opportunity to be in a place where a young person's contributions, opinions, and ideas are not just valued, but allowed to shine. Under the care and mentorship of the Executive Director, we worked together as team players. And in the office, which gathered numerous young adults from different religious traditions, the mission of RFP-USA was realized. I think it gave all of us great hope for all members of society to grow to understand and respect one another. I definitely left with a fresh perspective and a deep personal respect for interreligious understanding. Any final words? It was painful to leave such a fantastic organization. Thanks Rev. Heckman and Religions for Peace-USA, for everything." |
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Ms.
Caitlin Deschenes-Desmond "Working at RFP-USA was one of the most inspiring experiences I've ever had. The selfless dedication and genuine commitment of the entire staff to spreading intercultural understanding would be impressive on its own, but they are also all warm, funny, wonderful people. In the future I want to work with interfaith groups in the Middle East, and I've moved on to coordinating tours." |
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Ms.
Christina Park Associate for Communications (Summer - Fall 2004) New York University Major: Communication Studies with a concentration in Speech and Interpersonal Communication |
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Mr.
Peter Geel "Through my time at RFP-USA, I was able to explore many of the issues which surround being a committed Christian in an interfaith setting. My time here taught me many important lessons about the value of a multifaith setting where all participants are firmly rooted in their respective traditions and able to draw upon the spiritual resources they find there in order to work for the common good. Further, it was wonderful to be part of a team of people who were all gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector, each of whom hoped to make a difference, in various ways, in our diverse modern world. I look forward to continuing my own journey in this field as I finish my graduate education and seek interreligious work in Seattle." |
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Mr.
Krishan Vijay Patel "My RFP internship was one of the best work experiences I have ever had. Not only did I learn the inner workings of the non-profit world, but I met life long friends. Reverand Bud Heckmen motivates everyone to be creative and learn as much as possible while they are conducting their projects, while all the staff is extremely helpful and kind. Overall my summer at RFP gave me the opportunity to meet some amazing people, and learn great amounts about the non-profit world, all while getting a great taste for city life. As a result of working here, I realized what it is to be passionate about what you are doing. At most places people just work, but RFP people really cared about what they were doing. I suppose it has taught me the importance of seeking what you really want to do and going after it. My future goals: I hope to enter the business world for a couple years, and attempt to do my best while making things more ethical and from there get my foot in the nonprofit world and attempt to do my part in helping others." |
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Mr.
Daniel Zitnick "Though my experiences at RFP-USA were limited, I witnessed a great tradition of acceptence and love across religious lines. The projects of the office were always sincere in their commitment to the spiritual upliftment of society and developing a united front for the promulgation of peace in the world. I thank everyone for their kindness and for allowing me to share in their rewarding endeavor. I look forward to graduating in April from Michigan and the future that awaits." |