The Dream Team Award recognizes AFS-USA Teams for exceptional and outstanding service that benefits AFS-USA volunteers in more than one area of volunteer development and recognition. Teams were considered for this award based on their achievements in the areas of local volunteer recognition and appreciation, inclusion of both experienced and newer volunteers, and teamwork during the 2018 calendar year.

We had several WONDERFUL team applications this year. It was very nice to see all of the interesting accomplishments throughout the country.

The 2019 Dream Team Award goes to the Columbia Pacific Area Team. Here are some of the awesome events and activities they do each year, in their own words.

“As a team, we have an annual community service project that we do with our hosted students, host families, and volunteers. In 2018, that was a beach clean-up project on the Oregon Coast. We have chapters who organize an annual banquet and invite the local community to learn more about AFS, hear our story, and raise funds for the chapters. We hold one team party to celebrate our good work and thank volunteers, host families, and sending families. As a team, we make an effort to nominate our volunteers for International & National Awards every year.

We always invite new volunteers to our events, whether that be a local training, calling party, or coffee dates and lunches and meet with new volunteers one-on-one to discuss their interests and the different ways in which they can be engaged with our team.”

Congratulations, ColPac!