VOLUNTEER VIEWPOINT AN INTERVIEW WITH ROB BOWIE

MVP volunteer Rob Bowie was at a turning point in his life when he discovered the MVP. He had decided to leave St. Charles Seminary in Philadelphia and figured it was time to either work or go to school—until his dad proposed the idea of becoming a volunteer.

Where are you volunteering? At a nonprofit organization called San Antonio Urban Ministries. One branch they run is called the After School Kare (ASK) Program, which provides a curriculum-based program for elementary school students. Approximately 25 schools in the Northside Independent School District in San Antonio are served. I worked in enrollment and a place called the support center, which organized games and academic kits the children would use.

What’s a typical day like? Now that it’s summer, I am working at a day camp called SAMMinistries, which houses working families who are homeless for up to two years. Basically, I start around 6 a.m. and am surrounded by loud children for roughly 10 hours, get home by 7 p.m. and pass out asleep by 11 p.m. It’s challenging, but I love my job, and I love the kids and their families.

What have you gained from this experience? A sense of what community is. It’s the little things that blow up and the key is finding that defusing switch before someone snaps. It’s tougher than I thought.

What have you learned about the Marianists? I’ve known the Marianists since I was in 6th grade, but what I’m seeing more is their ‘progressive’ side. I’ve met some awesome priests and brothers here who are always available for conversation, and if they’re not, it’s probably because they are helping someone else.

Would you recommend this experience to others? Most definitely! It’s a good program. I like my job and my roommates, so I’m happy!