Office Space

I've decided that lunch time every other day will be my attempt to catch up on my social networking, specifically, this blog. The internet at the house is kind of overloaded (shock, with 63 people on it) and my computer is older so it doesn't like behaving. Therefore, this is my time to get things like this done, which aren't a priority in the evenings as I'm trying to spend time with the housemates and (here's the time consumer) study and learn all the information required of me. That said, I really really want to keep everyone updated so I'm going to try my best :)

Speaking of studying, the first day in the office was kind over overwhelming for me. Some of my fellow roadies have spent the last 2, 3, 4, etc years following IC and being involved with our programs and events, so I feel like I'm constantly playing catch up. Yesterday, however, went really smoothly and I'm starting to get a grasp on everything and feel more like I have my feet underneath me. Today has been good so far, we're learning about Salesforce, the program we use to keep track of all of our awesome contacts (it's so easy to start dealing with us if you want to get a screening at your school, church, etc!). It's kind of a magical program and I can't wait to start using it. After lunch, i.e., in 20 min, we'll hear in more detail (and I will again take tons of notes in my effort to feel on top of things) about all of our programs.

The days are full and the work is work, but I really have learned so much in just the last few days (I've only been here since Sunday? What?!) the hearts of these people are amazing, the organization is totally reputable, and I can tell I will be prepared by the time I go on the road.


Speaking of preparation, one of the ways they do this is to have a review quizzing time every morning at the office. First thing, we all get in a room together (new and returning roadies) and they call a random number (we've each been assigned one) and we have to go to the front of the room and answer the question as if we were on stage. Fortunately, I've yet to be hit with a hard one, but yesterday I was asked to give my "IC story," meaning briefly tell how I came to be a roadie as if I were presenting to students. I think it was after this point that I really realized I could do this; I've always enjoyed public speaking but there is something terrifying about going in front of 60 of your peers, plus supervisors, and laying it out there. At the end, however, I felt that I had done a good job and began to feel more confident that this is where I'm supposed to be.
The affirmation, love, and joy that has come from these people is insane. The office is a visual history of IC, with all of our promotional posters and photos of the LRA and child soldiers on the walls, it's incredible. It's such a conglomeration of different types of people, all working towards several specific goals (which I will gladly share with anyone with more questions) and its this that makes the being crammed with 60 people and working long days totally worth it. I know I'm not even beginning to feel as worn out as I will, and I can't wait to go on the road and be stretched and forced to grow in so many new directions. It's really an amazing position that I've been put in, and as always, I love and appreciate all of you for your support in what I'm doing. I can't wait to share more stories with you all!

Love and Peace.
Sarah

P.S. I'm about halfway to my support goal, which is awesome! I'm so so thankful to everyone who has been able to give, but if you know anyone who is interested in IC and in helping a starving Roadie, please send them to My Support Page to make a donation to my Kintera account. It's totally tax-deductible, IC will send you a receipt and it's definitely a secure site.
Again, much love :)