A Letter from Deirdre Araujo
Many of us first came to Servas because someone opened a door.
Perhaps it was a host who welcomed us into their home, a traveler who shared stories over breakfast, or a volunteer who patiently answered our questions about becoming a member. Whatever the moment, someone created a place for us to belong.
That spirit of invitation has always been one of Servas' greatest strengths. It also raises an interesting question:
How might we create more ways for people to feel a sense of belonging before they become Hosts, Travelers, or even Friends?
Today, many volunteer roles naturally begin with becoming a vetted Host/Traveler. That makes sense for responsibilities involving member information, finances, technology, or governance. Those safeguards help protect our members and preserve the trust that makes Servas possible.
But not every act of service requires access to our membership lists or internal systems.
Someone who enjoys writing could help with communications. A photographer could document events. A designer could improve educational materials. A retired accountant might enjoy helping explain nonprofit finances. A college student might help organize a regional gathering or create short videos introducing Servas to a new generation.
These are meaningful contributions that strengthen our community while allowing people to get to know Servas—and allowing Servas to get to know them.
Perhaps we can begin thinking about volunteer engagement as a series of open doors rather than a single doorway.
A curious visitor might help with a public event. A new member could join a project team. An experienced Host/Traveler might mentor someone preparing for their first interview or framing the request for letters of recommendation. A committee volunteer might eventually become a Team Lead or board member.
And when active hosting or travel comes to an end, perhaps another door opens.
Some of our longest-serving members carry decades of Servas history. They remember the early conferences, lifelong friendships, memorable journeys, difficult decisions, and global moments that shaped our organization. These stories are part of our heritage.
How wonderful would it be if we intentionally captured them?
Imagine an oral history project where longtime members share the experiences that taught them what Servas really means. Imagine new volunteers learning not only our policies and procedures but also the stories, values, and traditions that have sustained this organization for generations.
Leadership is not only about serving on the National Executive Committee.
It is mentoring a new volunteer.
It is welcoming someone who is simply curious.
It is sharing expertise, preserving history, organizing an event, translating a newsletter, solving a technology problem, or helping a project succeed. Every one of these contributions strengthens Servas.
As US Servas continues to grow and evolve, we have an opportunity to create more entry points for participation—ways for prospective members, newer members, Host/Travelers, and longtime friends of Servas to contribute according to their interests, talents, and stage of life.
After all, opening doors is what Servas has always done best. I think it's time to open a few more—this time for volunteers.
Yours in service,
Deirdre Araújo
