1.Provide Family Service Opportunities
Ripples of Hope allows families to serve together. Service projects aim to include all ages ( some service journeys may have minimum age requirements) as they are hands-on, engaging and inspirational. Ultimately, these projects hope to plant a seed in families, which will establish a lifetime of service.
2.Empower Communities
Ripples partners with communities which are committed to making their neighborhoods better places to live. Together with our service partners, we assess community needs and determine projects based on their desires. This allows us to provide transformational service which results in community ownership. Our projects succeed when local leaders maintain the momentum of the project.
3.Promote Cross-Cultural Learning
Ripples projects promote cross-cultural learning and building bridges between participants from different backgrounds. Ripples families and community members share stories about their experiences. Ultimately, we believe that all of us are much more alike than we are different.
4.Develop Leaders
Ripples volunteers and local partners are identified to take on leadership roles throughout the course of a service journey. Prior to the journey, volunteers select specific projects to lead; they learn the details of the project and acquire leadership skills. Our younger volunteers are also encouraged to take on leadership roles. We believe that empowering all young people is important in order to instill in them a sense that they can make a difference and continue such work the future.
5.Inspire Families to Take Action
A Ripples journey does not end upon completion of a project. Ripples families are encouraged to maintain relationships with our partner communities. Many Ripples volunteers return to service sites to provide direct support; others choose to support the communities through fundraising efforts or donations.