The Center for me, when I look back on my wonderful stay in Taiwan, was a ‘safe haven’, a ‘home away from home’, a place of warmth and friendships. It was somewhere that allowed you to showcase your talents, a place to learn and share ideas and experiences, a shelter where one could laugh, share happy moments, offload on those ‘bad days’ and occasionally shed tears. It is, without a doubt, unique! The people who ensure the doors are open each day are a family, a team of professionals who will support you whatever you may need – be it for a coffee and a giggle, a platform to develop your expertise, confidential counselling support, structure to your everyday life and many handy cultural insights and so much more.

 

From my heart, I am so thankful to have spent the years I did as a Center volunteer – it was my anchor.

As a trailing spouse I wanted to volunteer at the Center for two reasons. The first was selfish because I craved a meaningful opportunity to fill my long days at home while kids and husband were at school and work. The second reason was to share my love of Taiwan with other newcomers and help them feel connected to the international community.

When I was offered a full time position at the Center, I was thrilled to be able to work with so many wonderful staff and volunteers every day, help more expats, and continue to help the Center by promoting and selling their services, classes and fundraising.

Being a part of the Center has been the most rewarding and enjoyable work experience of my life thus far. It would be lovely to find an organisation like the Center to be a part of in the future.