Maine has an un-heralded corps of volunteers who head off to faraway places when they can to help other people. Their number includes medical workers, translators, builders of houses and schools, teachers, even old-fashioned missionaries. The work these do-gooders perform enriches lives in Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean and other parts of the Third World. And judging by the reports these volunteers bring back, it also enriches the lives of those Mainers who take the trips and perform the jobs – at their own expense.
“It’s the most life-enhancing thing,” remarked one experienced volunteer. She spoke for anyone who has learned the real rewards of helping others, no matter where they live.
