In the hearts and minds of those touched by the mission of AFS-USA, the recent passing of Jack Brennan marks a solemn moment of reflection and gratitude. Jack Brennan was not just a volunteer; he was a cornerstone of the AFS community, embodying the organization’s values of intercultural exchange, education, and volunteerism.

With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to a remarkable individual whose contributions have left an indelible mark on countless lives. Jack Brennan’s journey with AFS-USA was one of unwavering dedication and passionate advocacy for cultural understanding and youth empowerment.

As we celebrate his life and legacy, it’s fitting to recount some of the accomplishments yielded by Jack’s dedication of so much time, energy, and passion.

Through a network of dedicated volunteers like Jack, AFS-USA’s impact extends far beyond individual participants. Jack’s efforts helped to foster vibrant communities of volunteers, host families, educators, and supporters, most of whom continue to be passionate about promoting cultural exchange and global citizenship. Jack exemplified this spirit of community engagement through his longstanding commitment to AFS-USA and, through this spirit, he naturally brought others into the global family of AFS.

In 2015, Jack’s contributions to international education and cross-cultural understanding led to him being the recipient of a prestigious national award which served as a testament to his commitment to excellence and innovation in our programs and initiatives.

As we reflect on his achievements and pause to remember Jack’s profound impact on the AFS community, we are reminded of his passion for education, his dedication to fostering cross-cultural connections, and his unwavering commitment to volunteerism.

In honoring Jack Brennan’s memory, may we all reaffirm our commitment to the values he held dear: empathy, respect, and a belief in the transformative power of cultural exchange. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

As we mourn the loss of a dear friend and colleague, let us also celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. In the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Jack Brennan was a testament to the truth of these words, and his legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Jack Brennan’s family, friends, and the entire AFS-USA community during this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forward his vision of a more interconnected and compassionate world.