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How to Exceed Your Expectations in the Leaving Cert (Penguin Specials)

Laurel Schneider Hamden, Connecticut Laurel Schneider began volunteering at Keefe community Center in March and has since performed over hours of volunteer service. She has performed administrative duties, assisted with food pantry distribution, and assisted in the computer lab with Hamden Youth Services and Community Services.

Laurel recently accepted a part-time position as Job Developer with the Hamden Adult Education Pathways to Work Program and also continues as a volunteer.


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Lucas Alexander Hamden, Connecticut Lucas Alexander began volunteering in Hamden Youth Services three years ago and has accomplished over hours of volunteer service. Lucas Alexander truly loves his volunteer activities and is motivated by a challenge. He greatly admires U. Senator Chris Murphy and aspires to devote his life to public service.

Lucas is a Hamden resident entering his freshman year at Hamden High School. Lucas enjoys music, history and writing. Hamden Youth Services looks forward to future motivational endeavors with Lucas Alexander. Lewis is an integral part of these support operations, and without his leadership many events held throughout Hamden would not be possible. Mayor Marti Shamberger Morgantown, West Virginia "I have had great examples throughout my life of people who 'go the extra mile.

Acts of kindness, treating people with dignity, and being a voice for those who need help are a few of the actions I witness daily. I believe through these actions we are leaving our world a better place. Without the Harpers, the skies of Canton would have been dark for the fourth. With their help, and the amazing outpouring of support from donors large and small, the city was able to celebrate Independence Day together with the traditions many have grown to love.

How to Exceed Your Expectations in the Leaving Cert

Page Norwich, Connecticut Mr. This is a Norwich resident that decided long ago he would donate his time and talents to improving our City and moving her forward. He has utilized his architectural background to ensure that new projects in the City comply with our Plan of Conservation and Development.

In he was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contribution for the Protection of the Environment. He is a Justice of the Peace and has traditionally provided transportation for the elderly and disabled citizens to the polling locations. Mayor Joseph Ganim Bridgeport, Connecticut "Going the extra mile is putting the needs of others before your own.

It means doing far more than what is simply required; and standing up for something you believe in — even when it is not the popular thing to do. It requires passion, humility and strength. It may start with one person but its effects inspire a whole community. The hardworking individuals and organizations that have gone the extra mile in Bridgeport have each in their own way raised the quality of life in our city, and we are forever grateful for their efforts. Reed Bridgeport, Connecticut Louis L. He has a great deal of passion for his community and has committed his life to empowering and coaching those in need of targeted re-entry services.

Louis provides exemplary life coaching, re-entry, and recovery-based services to individuals who "are in need of mobilizing their inner resources and tapping into greater potential to live a more purposeful life. He has made over referrals that ensured his participant's access to resources, supportive services and employment opportunities - which for so many have been life changing. BNT's mission is to lead, empower and change Bridgeport neighborhoods by improving quality of life through affordable opportunities, healthy homes and comprehensive home ownership counseling.

In addition, they make every effort to hire those that may need a Second Chance in life. Aerotek Bridgeport, Connecticut Aerotek is an employment agency that has provided support and employment opportunities for the Mayor's Initiative on Reentry Affairs MIRA , which addresses various needs of Bridgeport residents returning to the community from correctional facilities. Aerotek has displayed a willingness to work with people in need of a Second Chance. They have been committed to providing employment opportunities that assist out residents with becoming productive members of the Bridgeport community while providing opportunities to work and support their families and community.

LifeBridge Community Services Bridgeport, Connecticut LifeBridge Community Services is a nonprofit organization that provides a "holistic service approach and has a positive impact on the quality of life and economic health of the Bridgeport community. LifeBridge programs that influences economic empowerment, behavioral health, social enterprises and youth services. Carbone has worked feverishly to make a difference in the Bridgeport community by bringing resource and funding to impact our community though an entrepreneurial approach on workforce and economic development pursuits. Joe's ability to leverage resources and access funding has provided a comprehensive framework of services for Bridgeport residents including, but not limited to programs serving the long-term unemployed, mature workers and returning citizens.

Our community will nurture our children. This year we witnessed an outpouring of support in our third annual peanut butter drive. Her projects include making small quilts for those in need and making pies to sell for the benefit of the fire dept. He also regularly collects eyeglasses from local opticians for Lions Club International.

Having less trash around may be part of why foot traffic is increasing, and the pickers do report that they see a lot more people walking around downtown Barre in the evenings now than when they started. Charles Dixon practiced law for more than 60 years in Hickory. He was recognized as a key leader in the community serving professionally and personally in an unsurpassed manner. Dixon served on the Bond Implementation Commission until his passing on July 5, The primary projects are the City Walk, Riverwalk, Streetscapes and Gateways in which they have, and continue to dedicate a considerable amount of time to meetings, planning, and fruition of the projects.

The park will contain unstructured play equipment, outdoor seating, and a splash pad. It will also feature pottery, mosaic tile, a music section, toddler area and bicycle repair stand. Her work never ends. She puts in countless hours for the City, Council, all Departments, and whoever needs help.

He has been the chair person for the last 13 plus years. Bill does so much for our aging citizens in the community and his work is paramount. During the last two years he has worked on a Strategic Plan and now has it an almost final stage. The City of Arnold is so lucky to have someone of his talents.

Teresa heads up our Recreation Center, oversees planning, design, implementation and management of recreational programs, activities and special events in the areas of adults and youth services. She not only called our city businesses to donate food, but went to pick up each meal and served everyone. Everyone needs an employee like Teresa.

He is always there to help with whatever is asked of him and never any complaint. What is your purpose? See you at the finish line …. There is an energy of possibility in Wichita thanks to all of the great efforts to make Wichita the best it can be. His involvement spans from giving of himself through his local church to assisting with City-wide events such as the annual Tribute to Liberty. She celebrated her th birthday this year. During her time on the boards she campaigned and became a crusader for the betterment of the citizens of Midwest City as she dedicated ten years toward the conception, funding and building of both the Soldier Creek Nature Trail and Memory Laneand was able to get many organizations in the community to donate time to help clear paths and do some of the manual labor for the projects, including a team of volunteers that worked to fund the project by collecting donations, holding fundraisers and applying for grants.

Not only does she make sure that one sees the beauty at the entrances to the city, but her work is seen throughout Columbus. Boswell and Mayor Robert E. Your organization helps to push these efforts. Arleen Hubble Longview, Washington Arleen Hubble has played a major role planning the annual Go 4th Festival Parade for 30 years and has served as the Executive Director for 10 years, taking care of every aspect even down to the smallest, caring detail of creating and sewing the banners that draped over Nichols Avenue.

She is also a long-standing member of the Longview Downtowners and has organized the Longview Christmas Parade for over 30 years. The project spearheaded by Arleen was that of installing additional lighting outlets at the Civic Center so that more Christmas lights could be displayed and enjoyed by all. Sarah Wallace Green River, Wyoming Sarah has done an outstanding job getting the business community involved with our program again. She works tirelessly to gather volunteers and organize events and has managed several successful downtown promotions. He is always ready and willing to do whatever needs to be done to make sure our events are successful.

He gives countless hours of his personal time to downtown revitalization and is a standout leader in our organization. Captain Gary Wallace, Middletown Police Department Middletown, Connecticut Captain Gary Wallace does everything in his power to help people; he is the consummate servant leader, always thinking of others and in the process helping others. In addition to faithfully performing his duties in law enforcement, Captain Wallace also gives back to the following organizations: It often times only requires compassion, a little bit of time, and sacrifice.

Drew Middletown, Connecticut "Going the extra mile means doing more than is required for the right reasons when no one is looking. If each one of us maximizes our personal contribution to community, imagine the difference we could make! Wayne Syth Hayden, Idaho Mr. Wayne Syth is a true example of someone who goes the extra mile to serve his community.

Franklin Farm Cumberland, Rhode Island Franklin Farm should be recognized for its passion for community outreach and helping others. Since , volunteers have harvested , pounds of crops for community food banks. The farm has also hosted hundreds of school children in outdoor learning plant days. Principal Dixie Garrison quickly arrived on scene and sent a radio call out to the office to dial Price had completed a refresher CPR course just 10 days earlier and knew exactly what to do. Skyler was born with a heart defect that caused his heart to stop.

He recently underwent surgery to install a defibrillator to get his heart beating should this happen again. Thanks to their quick thinking, heroic action, and appropriate training, Skyler is expected to make a full recovery. She has been a faithful volunteer for the Midwest City Animal Sheltervolunteering anywhere from hours every week including assisting us during evening hours. She will feed animals, help answer the telephones and assist customers when we are short-handed, and evenroll her sleeves up and help clean. Barb can often be seen driving a front-end loader the extra mile!

Brenda is a strong advocate for many things including: Summer meals and reading for kids, early childhood development, farmers markets and food advocacy, many north Salina projects, quality and equitable bus services City-Go fifth route, etc , and many more. Brenda cheerfully goes the extra mile! Barb is simply the go-to person for many who are looking for help finding grant dollars or other funding sources, large or small, with limited information and usually on a tight deadline.

EPA planning consultants for north Salina, rain barrels, radon detection, sustainability and pollution prevention, food security and advocacy, farmers markets, north Salina, etc. Barb tirelessly goes the extra mile! The staff and donors of the GSCF consistently go the extra mile! Volunteer Connection Salina, Kansas Whether it be a fall fix-up, Spring Spruce-up, or a need for volunteers for a small event, the Volunteer Connection can always be counted upon to provide cheerful, willing workers for community projects. The staff, board and army of volunteers at the Volunteer Connection continually go the extra mile!

Volunteer Connection Salina, Kansas. Mayor Jon Blanchard Salina, Kansas. The neighbors near this intersection have supported Mr. The City of East Peoria recognized Mr. The Beautification Commission also installed permanent sign at the location where Mr. Peterson has been taking care of the flowers. She expertly coordinates all of the library services and programs, provides direction to the youth services team and manages the bookmobile and administration staff.

She also serves as the president of Literacy Green Bay, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping adults and families acquire the reading, writing, math, English language, computer, and workforce skills they need to function effectively as workers and community members. Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity, lead by Executive Director Cora Haltaufderheid Green Bay, Wisconsin Habitat for Humanity has embarked on a number of impressive activities over the last year, including 2 story home construction, plans for Twindominiums, and a successful Repurpose for a Reason event.

Their creative and inspirational approach is improving Green Bay neighborhoods and improving the lives of the families using their housing product. Baird Creek Preservation Foundation, lead by Executive Director Maureen Meinhardt Green Bay, Wisconsin The Baird Creek Preservation Foundation is responsible for facilitating the preservation and restoration of the Baird Creek Watershed in order to enhance its value as an ecological, recreational, and educational resource for generations to come.

From invasive species removal to controlled burns to trail restoration, this group is doing a marvelous job maintaining the Baird Creek Parkway. This space is in addition to their beautiful offices in the former Chamber of Commerce Building. One look around their offices and you can see why they are extremely successful in attracting creative, young talent.

Representative Steffen has worked heroically on responsibly returning the excess stadium sales tax to the municipalities in Brown County. Sending this money back to the municipalities, rather than let it sit in an account for decades doing nothing, was the right thing to do. Over the years, we have heavily relied on the dedication and perseverance of our citizen volunteers as they lend a helping hand to our Palm Bay Police Department. Collectively, our VCOP volunteers have provided over 20, hours of community service on countless projects.

Their selfless service in conducting home security checks allows peace of mind for residents away on travel, and their ability to complete traffic crash reports enables our officers to remain on patrol and more fully serve the community. The work of our VCOP volunteers never goes unnoticed, and we are truly grateful to have them. Checker goes on to epitomize volunteerism by additionally serving as the Volunteer Emergency Response Team VERT coordinator, a program supporting police officers during critical incidents.

He is always readily available during a crisis and manages the Disaster Communications Services, which provides HAM radio services when police radio systems go down. Aside from his multiple leadership positions, Carlos plays a vital role in the success and growth of the program, working diligently to recruit a diverse group of volunteers. Sam Swan Palm Bay, Florida Sam Swan, operations supervisor of the VCOP program, continually demonstrates astonishing generosity and an unwavering willingness to give back to the community.

As of , Swan has volunteered 1, hours, and continues to seek additional opportunities to serve within the VCOP program. Paying meticulous attention to detail, Swan is responsible for training and scheduling VCOP personnel and patrols. As the City of Palm Bay continues its rapid growth rate, we cannot thank Sam enough for his dedication and success in staffing our community events. She has volunteered hours within the Palm Bay Police Department and continually seeks areas in which she can lend a helping hand.

Serving as a role model for our upcoming youth, Jordan coordinates all the educational tours of the Palm Bay Police Department. Martin is one of the biggest cheerleaders we have in this city. We see him picking up trash throughout the city no matter what the weather is. He also volunteers regularly at a local food pantry. Everything he does is with a smile and warm greeting for everyone. She contributed countless hours on school committees and in the Whitefish community, always working selflessly and tirelessly for many efforts, and always keeping kids' best interests at heart before passing away on July 3, Pat was instrumental in rallying the Whitefish community to understand the importance of the need for a new Whitefish High School, and ultimately helped to pass, overwhelmingly, a local bond effort leading to the construction of the new Whitefish High School.

Perhaps most importantly, Pat was beloved by many in town, is certainly missed by us all, and we will all continue to be inspired by Pat's example. Jim and Lisa Stack Whitefish, Montana Jim and Lisa have been recognized for their many volunteer efforts and philanthropic contributions to the Whitefish community over the years. They have served for over 20 years on the Whitefish Lake and Lakeshore.

In their committee work, they always prioritize water quality and the protection of Whitefish Lake and local bodies of water. The display is synced up with music that people passing through can tune into their radio to watch the show and listen to the music as they drive through downtown Huntington. This is a very large project for the city and could not have been as successful as it was without the help of Chris and the Robotics Club. The City of Huntington is very proud of our Christmas light displays and we are very thankful for the expertise of Chris and the Robotics Club!

These are just the highlights! The City of Huntington is very grateful for the hard work and dedication that EUM has for serving the residents of Huntington. The Chain Rattlers have cleared sections of wooded areas to make trails for the course, poured concrete slabs, installed disc baskets, and signage. They have put a great deal of time into mapping out and designing the course itself as well. Steven Friehofner Barre, Vermont Steven teaches English language skills to immigrants and refugees living in central Vermont. He has conducted workshops for Central Vermont Adult Basic Education staff and volunteers regarding best practices and techniques for those working with English language learners.

Steven also offers English conversation classes at area learning centers. In addition to the classes, Steve continues to work one-on-one with several students and can often be found meeting with students at the local libraries. His rock cover band Native Tongue frequently offers free concerts to benefit local organizations and needs. In addition to his dedication to downtown Barre, he has mentored and coached both football and basketball for Barre Youth Sports.

Roy Somaini Barre, Vermont Roy served his community through municipal, church and community service committees and organizations, everything from the local hospital, Chamber of Commerce, homeless shelter and American Heart Association. As a cancer survivor, Roy was very active in support groups through the Vermont Cancer Survivors Network. As a Rotarian, he traveled to Romania where he worked at a local orphanage and with local officials. We lost Roy in , yet his spirit lives on in the work he did and the lives he touched. He is a Mason and a Lion, and has served in leadership roles in both organizations.

In , he assisted flood victims in Barre and Berlin. Tammy Conforti, Kenosha Dream Playground Project Coordinator Kenosha, Wisconsin The Kenosha Achievement Center teamed up with Tammy and expressed their support and interest in adopting the project with a commitment to see the project to the end. Tammy has gone the extra mile and then some to ensure that children of all abilities have the opportunity to enjoy all the amenities available to them. The Kenosha Dream Playground officially opened on October 10, A simple, summer basketball league grew to include hundreds of families whose sons and daughters were able to hone some skills while learning the value of competitive play and respect.

Visits from notable area sports heroes, including Caron Butler and TraeWaynes, helped create a favorable lasting impression of Lincoln Park and its amenities. CenterPointe Lincoln, Nebraska Grounded by the solid belief that every person has the ability to recover, CenterPointe makes pivotal treatment available for people suffering from mental health and substance use disorders.

Meeting people where they are and supporting them to gain control of their lives is what CenterPointe aims to do.

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By treating the whole person, mental health and addiction can be addressed together in real-time. This holistic approach, combined with open arms and open minds, distinctly sets CenterPointe apart. CenterPointe constantly push boundaries to find better ways in helping people be well and never gives up on the value of life. Alan Goracke Blaine, Minnesota Dr.

Alan Goracke is Founder and President of Hope for The Community, a humanitarian organization that has fed over 20, families over 1,, pounds of food. In previous years he served as a chaplain for the Police and Fire Departments. Goracke is the senior pastor at Hope Church and has lived in city of Blaine for 24 years. He has a passion for serving and helping people in need in the community.

The City of Petersburg is doing just that on a daily basis for our residents and when our tourists come to visit us. We want to make sure our residents receive quality customer service and our tourists receive an excellent experience while in town. When you think of Petersburg, we want you to think of our great people, inviting city and somewhere where you always feel at home. Patty has also served at the Senior Center with multiple activities, including driving the senior bus. This commendation is tendered with the sincere appreciation of the City Commission.

Lou always steps up to help out for charitable efforts. Mike is a caring person and is involved in many charitable efforts. He helps in the community and is always first in line to volunteer. For the past several decades, they have volunteered their time and talents to provide free entertainment at senior centers and nursing homes throughout central Vermont. She has worked with area churches, the library, and social service agencies to ensure that there are warming sites available when the weather is cold for those who have no shelter.

Beth serves on the Washington County Diversion Board, helping first-time offenders avoid re-offending. Bob Sager Barre City, Vermont Bob Sager works tirelessly on behalf of the city, its residents and its downtown business district. Barre Rotary Club Barre City, Vermont For the past two years, the Barre Rotary Club has led a group of citizens and members of other service clubs in cleaning up the downtown. Every Thursday evening they walk up and down North Main Street picking up trash and making our downtown more attractive and inviting.

Ken Lunde Barre City, Vermont The City of Barre is blessed to have a large area known as the Cow Pasture which is available to all area residents for recreational uses; hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, mountain biking. Volunteers serve on a committee that oversees the Pasture, including Ken Lunde, who spends significant time mowing in the Pasture to keep the trails open. Speck has developed Central's drama club into one of the top student theatrical groups in the state.

He also has won top ratings 10 years in a row with award-winning orginial plays and musicals. Marti Lundy, with Allison Timbrook, the city's community engagement coordinator. Mayor Brooks Fetters is seated at the center. Allan Wilson Green River, Wyoming Allan Wilson spent 34 years working for the City of Green River during which time he pioneered many projects for the community including the Green Belt and miles of walking and biking paths.

Wilson still serves on the boards of many civic organizations and volunteers his time and knowledge whenever and wherever he can. Krauss also volunteers with the Main Street Agency and generously donates her time to the Senior Center. She is a forward thinker who always strives to improve the quality of life in her home town. Everybody wants to be loved and wanted, but you have to get out of yourself to do so. They take time away from their families, their jobs, and their own lives because they choose to make a difference.

Without hesitation they respond, often in the middle of the night. Shepherd's Hand Whitefish, Montana Shepherd's Hand, in addition to continuing to provide a free medical clinic and a free, weekly, community meal, began providing a free dental clinic in January, Each month, Community Meals serves over meals, the Free Clinic services over medical patients and 50 dental patients on average. Worland Recreation District Worland, Wyoming The members of the Worland Recreation District provide invaluable recreational opportunities to the citizens of Worland young and not so young.

They organize and promote baseball, soccer, football, basketball, golf, volleyball, tennis and swimming programs. Individually and collectively they go the extra-mile! Don Udell, Midwest City Jail Chaplain Midwest City, Oklahoma This Vietnam War Veteran has dedicated his life to the call of reaching lost souls through love and compassion and transforming them into people with hope for a better future. Since beginning his voluntary duties, the Midwest City Jail has seen not only a cultural change in our facility among the inmates and staff, but a declining recidivism rate.

We are seeing long-term results because of Dr. Itis not just her volunteer support that is so impressive, but her warm and contagious smile, compassionate nature and willingness to get involved and inspire others to follow in her footsteps that continues to make the Greater Westfield Community a better place. Don Podolski, Bicycling Advocate and Leader Westfield, Massachusetts Don had been an advocate for bicycling for decades, including being one of the earliest voices for the idea of the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail.

Extra Mile Heroes

Don advocates locally for expanding safe bicycling opportunities, participates in conferences, and serves on the Joint Transportation Committee of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. Recently, Don supervised the completion of a Bikeability Study of Westfield completed by the statewide group MassBikes. Don is the organizer of the annual Great River Ride, an event that has for over 26 years provided bicyclists of all skill levels an opportunity to get out and enjoy the region.

The July 4th fireworks were not held that year due to the originator, Ron Aliano, passing. No one stepped forward to head up and coordinate this event, except for Michael Franklin. In Michael took charge of the newly formed Fireworks Committee and spearheaded the effort.


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  8. The City of Norwich fireworks have been successfully held for the past four years. With over 10, homes damaged from high winds and coastal flooding in our town, Toms River needed massive help to get people back in their homes. Today, they are still going the extra mile by providing their skilled-labor services to our residents and are one of the very few organizations who have stayed with us while the community recovers.

    This group did an amazing job planning, planting, weeding, and watering the gardens throughout the city. Each one takes great pride and care in helping to make the city a beautiful and clean place to enjoy. Sylvia gives hours of her time and energy to spearhead the Downtown Day of caring to beautify the downtown and store front areas, and works tirelessly to support all of the Chamber sponsored events to encourage economic development in and around the city. Diane Davy Berlin, New Hampshire Diane Davy, at her own expense, had a house demolished and replaced it with a beautiful flower garden.

    For over 25 years this group has helped the citizens of Berlin, as well as surrounding areas, access affordable pet care by offering rabies clinics at reduced prices, allowing people of all income levels to properly care for their pets. Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce Berlin, New Hampshire Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce is at the heart of several significant events that are designed to bring pride and economic development to the Androscoggin Valley community it serves. There is a core group of Chamber Directors and Volunteers that pour their hearts and souls into countless hours of preparation and events.

    Kirby Crump West Jordan, Utah Kirby Crump was stopped at an intersection waiting for a green light when he saw a small plane disappear into the soccer fields and knew it had crashed. With traffic being light that morning and the urgency of the airplane crash, he ignored the red light and sped to the soccer complex and drove across the fields, right up to the crash where he helped pulled three victims to safety from the burning plane. Robert Kelley West Jordan, Utah Robert Kelley, a Staff Sergeant with the Utah National Guard, was stopped at an intersection waiting for a green light when he saw a plane disappear into the soccer fields and knew it had crashed.

    With traffic being light on a Sunday morning and the urgency of the airplane crash, he ignored the red light and sped to the soccer complex and drove across the fields, right up to the crash where he helped pulled three victims to safety from the burning plane. Kelly Busenbark West Jordan, Utah Kelly Busenbark was driving a little farther away from the soccer fields, but he also saw the plane go down and ran a red light to get to the crash to help.

    David Lawrence West Jordan, Utah David Lawrence, a former firefighter and emergency medical technician, saw the plane crash and went running across the soccer fields to help. He ran towards it to help. Thankfully all three victims were pulled safely from the wreckage. All three victims had broken backs and other injuries. He tirelessly helps diverse customers everyday. He has been helping kids learn to repair their bikes as well as providing them a place and tools to do so for a very long time. It empowers kids and teaches them that they can solve their own problems and thereby take control of their lives.

    He teaches daily bicycle commuters ways in which to maintain their bike. Kraynick fixes up all the bikes that Police Zone 5 gives out to children during the Christmas holidays. He is an awesome dude. Mayor Nancy Vaughn Greensboro, North Carolina Extra Mile Day is an opportunity to honor those in Greensboro and throughout the nation who are making a positive impact on our community every day. Rolfe West Jordan, Utah West Jordan is the kind of community where residents continually go the extra mile to help each other.

    Rory Crean (Author of How to exceed your expectations in the Leaving Cert (Penguin Specials))

    I see this service daily as I meet people who share their time and talents on behalf of making our community a great place to live and do business. Mayor Anthony Silva Stockton, California Going the extra mile will bring you satisfaction, recognition and a chance to connect with others who share your work ethic and interests. Some of my greatest accomplishments have resulted because I went the extra mile. Mayor Shari Winstead Shoreline, Washington As Mayor, I truly understand the benefit of collective action and how important volunteer contributions are to a City's overall well-being and health.

    There is no way we could provide or maintain the high level of quality services residents expect without the help of volunteers going the extra mile to make their community stronger. While many cities struggle to find people willing or able to step forward and volunteer, we are extremely fortunate here in Shoreline to have so many people dedicated to maintaining our parks and trails, working at keeping crime rates low, and preparing for effective emergency response.

    The residents collectively go the extra mile in personal effort, volunteerism and service. Our community encourages its citizens to maximize their personal contribution to the community and to make Buckeye a better place. We support the mission of Extra Mile America, and we are proud to be one of the communities nationwide observing Nov. Monette City of Newport, Vermont With the many positive changes coming to Newport, I would like to acknowledge the organizations and individuals for their dedication and hard work in improving our community.

    We are thrilled to be part of this national movement and would like to recognize these citizens, organizations and businesses who continue to make a difference not only in Newport but the surrounding area. Mayor Jeff Meyers Shawnee, Kansas In my role as a mayor, teacher and coach, I know that it takes dedicated people going the extra mile to move a community and team forward.

    We cannot help but want to go the extra mile too when we witness those who go the extra mile day after day to make our communities, organizations, and teams great. The organization wants to help children develop and reach their potential by engaging them in various activities offered by the club. The programs available are free of charge and every child can enroll in the activities. The Cathedral Center Cathedral City, California The Cathedral Center assists all seniors, from the active to the homebound, by providing services that channel energy, relieve suffering and protect their health, happiness and well-being.

    Salvation Army Cathedral City, California One of the primary missions of the Salvation Army is to alleviate human suffering and address the economic, social, and emotional well-being of the low income and struggling individuals and families in California. Volunteers and case managers from the Salvation Army try to empower people so they can become self-sufficient.

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    The non-profit bases its various services and financial assistance on local community needs. They also partner with other non-profits and charities in addressing the needs of the low income. Stepping Stones School Cathedral City, California Stepping Stones is a three-step program for struggling students that includes tutoring, counseling, college and career planning, community service, and mentoring. They have successfully helped hundreds of students get off the path of destruction and onto the road of success. Darlene Violet Massillon, Ohio.

    Massillon Museum Massillon, Ohio. Lincoln Historic Theatre Massillon, Ohio. Charles Paquelet Massillon, Ohio. Henry Aegerter Massillon, Ohio. Massillon Area Greenways, Inc. It is she who tallies all volunteer hours and updates the record books. Carol also creates and maintains special event files, archives newspaper articles, files professional publications, maintains a list of current inventories, and prepares packets and materials for volunteer orientations.

    Her organizational skills are deeply valued, as her efforts allow staff to focus on coordinating support for national service days, city-sponsored concerts, holiday activities, and other programs. On weekends, Carol can be found at Assumption Church in the hospitality area before and after services, as well as at funeral luncheons offering her assistance, comfort and support to bereaved families.

    Carol truly exemplifies extraordinary community service through her active participation in helping others and through the unparalleled support she provides to the community of O'Fallon. Carol is an extraordinary woman. Carmen regularly participates in large-scale environmental projects throughout St. Carmen has also mobilized her neighborhood to become more involved in the environment. Having adopted a stretch of road near her subdivision, she encourages, organizes and leads her neighbors — families and children alike —in regular clean-ups, of not just the roadway but also the creek that follows alongside the road.

    She has instilled a sense of pride in her local community, as well as an understanding of the importance of a clean and safe environment. This demonstrates the need for destination countries to take a broader and more long-term approach to international nurse recruitment, rather than regarding it as an inexpensive way to fill gaps within the health care system.

    Active overseas recruitment strategies have succeeded in attracting large numbers of migrant nurses to countries where domestic production and retention have not kept pace with growing needs [ 1 , 2 ]. However, it is destination countries' ability to retain these nurses that will determine the long-term effectiveness of these workforce strategies.

    Research has shown that attention to factors promoting retention is important to the long-term success of active international recruitment campaigns, which otherwise will have minimal impact beyond the short-term relief of staff shortages [ 3 - 8 ]. The Irish experience of international recruitment and retention, as presented in this paper, is a prime example of a country heavily reliant upon migrant health workers.

    As such, the lessons learnt may have a wider applicability internationally. The need for migrant nurses in this system is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, a fact borne out by the fact that many migrant nurses hold permanent jobs within the health system and also by the recent statement from the Manager of the National Recruitment Service that: Health employers often rely on anecdotal evidence to reassure them of the stability and long-term intentions of their migrant nurse workforce.

    For instance, the major State health employer in Ireland recently claimed to have no evidence to suggest that migrant nurses employed by them intend to leave Ireland [ 9 ]. In his research with health care managers in the United Kingdom, Buchan unearthed a similar and untested assumption, i. However, a recent survey of migrant nurses in the United Kingdom appeared to contradict the assumption of stability. The present study — the Nurse Migration Project — sought to consult with migrant nurses to obtain evidence, through qualitative and quantitative research methods, to assist employers and policy-makers in making informed decisions regarding their migrant nurse workforce.

    Given the extent to which Ireland has come to rely on migrant nurses [ 2 ], this is of fundamental importance to the Irish health system. This paper presents qualitative research findings from the Nurse Migration Project, focusing specifically on the factors likely to influence migrant nurses' decisions to remain in Ireland or migrate onwards, but the findings speak to an international audience and serve as a timely reminder of the experiences of individuals caught up in the "strange version of musical chairs" [ 4 ] that is international nurse recruitment.

    The struggle to retain migrant nurses in Ireland takes place, as their recruitment did, in the context of an "international war for skills" [ 4 ]. Developed countries compete with each other to recruit from the same global pool of nurses. Migrant nurses with overseas experience in an English-speaking country are highly sought-after. This inevitably means that developed countries compete with each other to attract nurses, as Buchan explains:.

    Canadian employers and recruitment agencies have been actively recruiting nurses from Ireland, using the lure of "affordable housing This is a tempting offer for nurses faced with the high rent or house purchase costs and significant daily commutes in Ireland. While statistics on nurse emigration are incomplete, there are indications that at least some of Ireland's migrant nurses are considering such a move [ 2 ].

    Although not a precise measure of nurse emigration, verification requests — the procedure through which national nursing boards verify the Irish registration of a nurse seeking to register in their country — are generally considered an indication of intent to migrate. It would appear that the global "carousel" [ 15 ] continues, as some of the migrant nurses whom Ireland actively recruited are recruited once again, this time by Australia, Canada or the United States of America. The OECD notes that, despite the global shortage of nurses, "most countries do not have specific retention policies for foreign health workers, even when the latter represent a large share of the workforce" [ 16 ].

    Perhaps destination countries find it cheaper to continue to recruit internationally rather than to instigate the change — to policy and practice — required to retain migrant nurses in post [ 17 ]. However, this approach is unsustainable in the long term and also suggests a disregard for the impact of onward migration on the lives of individual migrant nurses and their families. Ethical approval for the study was granted by the Research Ethics Committee of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and, in , in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 migrant nurses working in Ireland.

    In recruiting a sample, the researchers sought to ensure that the sample was heterogeneous — including migrant nurses from a range of countries; varying in age, marital status and duration of working in Ireland; active and passive recruits; and those working in both the public and private sectors. Unfortunately, beyond data on nationality and year of arrival as derived from immigration and registration data, no further information was available on the overall migrant nurse population in Ireland. Thus only limited estimates of generalizability between the sample and Ireland's migrant nurse population can be made.

    Insofar as possible, the researchers sought a sample of migrant nurses that would correspond to the overall population of migrant nurses in Ireland. Gaining access to a sample of migrant nurses proved difficult. Initially, potential respondents were contacted via the Overseas Nurses Section of the main nursing union, the Irish Nurses Organisation. This approach yielded a low response: Similar disappointing responses have been recorded by researchers in the United Kingdom who sought to contact migrant nurse respondents by post via the Royal College of Nursing [ 18 , 19 ].

    We can only speculate as to the reason for the low response rate — postal addresses may have changed, perhaps those contacted were reluctant to participate in face-to-face interviews, had more pressing demands on their time or simply had little interest in the research topic. The low response meant that alternative recruitment strategies were pursued — articles were placed in migrant newspapers and snowball sampling was also employed — a process of chain referral whereby respondents and gatekeepers are used to refer the researcher to other potential respondents [ 20 ]. Limitations of the sample include its small size and its overrepresentation of earlier arrivals and Filipino nurses.

    The small sample size initially came about as a result of recruitment difficulties, but once interviewing began, it soon became clear that the "rich and experiential"[ 21 ] data emerging from the interview necessitated a small sample size to ensure that the quantity of data remained at manageable levels. A point of data saturation was quickly reached — the point at which the researcher felt that increasing the number of respondents would provide no further insights into the research topic, but would result only in "a more cumbersome dataset" [ 22 ].

    The sample of migrant nurses comprised 16 nurses from the Philippines, four from India and one from Nigeria. The overrepresentation of Filipino respondents is explained by the existence of strong community bonds within the Filipino community in Ireland, which facilitated the success of snowball sampling. Respondents were predominantly women, with only two men participating in the research.

    On arrival in Ireland, eight respondents were aged in their 40 s, eight in their 30 s and five were in their 20 s. Most 15 of the respondents were married, three were single, two were divorced or separated and one was widowed. In addition, most 17 respondents had children or were expecting a child at the time of interview. Fifteen of those interviewed were based in Dublin, while a further six were based outside the capital.

    Eleven respondents had arrived in Ireland in —; three arrived in — and seven arrived in — Fourteen had been recruited to work in hospitals, four to private nursing homes and another three to work in disability services operated by charitable organizations. Eighteen respondents had been actively recruited to Ireland, one had emigrated to join a spouse and two others had emigrated independently. Interviews were conducted in non-workplace settings, as it was felt that this would facilitate a free and open discussion of experiences by respondents.

    The researcher lead author conducted 16 of the interviews in respondents' homes, which provided a familiar setting in which respondents would feel comfortable discussing their experiences [ 23 ], and conducted the remaining interviews, at respondents' request, in the research institution. Interviews lasted an average of 69 minutes. Each interview began with a discussion of confidentiality during which respondents were invited to select a pseudonym to ensure the anonymity of their responses in various research outputs. Interviews progressed to cover topics such as the decision to migrate, the recruitment process, orientation and adaptation programmes, nursing and living in Ireland and future plans.

    It concluded with a brief discussion of topics the researcher considered to be more "sensitive", such as, for example, remittances and the ethical issues raised by overseas nurse recruitment. On completion of the interview, all respondents were presented with a modest gift voucher to thank them for their participation and to cover any costs incurred [ 24 ].

    Interviews were audio recorded and were transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was undertaken on an ongoing basis throughout the data collection phase [ 22 ], as the researcher familiarized herself with emerging research themes. A general inductive analysis was undertaken via a thorough re-reading of interview transcripts [ 25 ], which enabled the researcher to identify emerging key issues, concepts and themes.

    Data management was facilitated by the use of the MaxQDA qualitative data analysis package. Of the 21 nurses interviewed, only four stated that they intended to remain in Ireland on a long-term basis. Over half 11 of those interviewed expressed their intention to emigrate from Ireland within five years — three respondents had made definite plans to emigrate to Canada and a further eight intended to leave Ireland within five years — some to return home, some to migrate to the United States or Australia. Six respondents felt that they would probably stay in Ireland, but qualified this decision either with a discussion of the opportunities available overseas, particularly in the United States, or by stating that their decision to remain was dependent on the employment and migration status of their spouses and children.

    The following discussion offers an insight into the complex web of factors considered by respondents in deciding whether to stay or to leave. Most of the 10 respondents who planned to remain in Ireland for the foreseeable future sought to do so because they felt that they and their families had settled and also because they wished to avoid the disruption entailed by onward migration:.

    I want, but they said, no, no, mam, we're not going, no, we have our friends and we left our friends there and we have now our friends here in Ireland and then we'd be leaving them again" Agatha, Philippines, 50 s. Career-related issues, such as the availability of salaries sufficient to enable remittances to family back home, job security or permanency, maternity benefits and educational opportunities were also cited as reasons for staying in Ireland. However, direct financial issues played a less significant role than had been anticipated and were found to be less likely to feature as deciding factors in the decision-making process.

    Two respondents who stated that they would probably remain in Ireland felt that it compared favourably to other potential migration destinations. For these comparisons, they drew on their own experiences of nursing in the Middle East and their friends' experiences in the United States:. Like [there] it's all work, work, work, work, work, work, work, work for them and they got home, you know, tired and they leave and they go to another job" Helmie, Philippines, 40 s.

    The desire to be settled, as expressed by respondents, contrasts with the stereotype of the migrant nurse as an extremely mobile individual, constantly seeking better opportunities internationally [ 18 , 27 ]. Although respondents did, to an extent, "rank" destination countries, in doing so they considered a broad range of quality-of-life issues far beyond straightforward salary comparisons. Despite these 10 respondents' having elected to remain in Ireland for the foreseeable future, they were frank about the difficulties inherent in living and working as a migrant nurse in Ireland.

    Most had made personal sacrifices:. In my own country, if I have been in my own country, I would have been a lecturer now, I'd have been worked in a college of nursing, I would have done that and would have done this, I would have had more responsibility" Sheela, India, 20 s. Padarath identifies this situation as "brain wastage", whereby "highly trained health personnel have been expected to carry out basic, menial tasks" [ 28 ].

    Such deskilling is neither in the interest of individual migrant nurses nor in the interest of the health systems in which they work. Respondents found that the high cost of living in Ireland also diminished salary values and reduced the amount that they were able to remit:. Others noted that although working in Ireland was financially attractive, remaining meant living apart from friends and family:. Yeah, you have everything here, we can buy everything, we can buy our house, our car there, but Filipino family are not just looking for money, for financial, but for stability as well" Clara, Philippines, 30 s.

    Family featured as an important consideration for migrant nurses in the decision-making process; this was true for both married and single respondents. If they lived apart from family members, the focus was on maintaining the remittance flow to them and on holiday entitlements that would allow family unity, even for a brief period. The social strain of migration in terms of family separation [ 4 ] was apparent in respondents' testimonies. For those respondents who lived with family members, the desire for stability and continued family unity was central to the decision to stay or leave.

    Overall, respondents were frustrated that they and their families received no entitlements to residency or citizenship as a family unit in return for their service to the Irish health system. Although most held permanent posts within the health system and that provided them with stability of employment, this was not matched in terms of the availability of a long-term, secure immigration status for migrant nurses and their families.

    This was a concern expressed by single nurses as well as those who were married or who had children:. The desire both for stability and to maintain the integrity of the family unit played a significant role in respondents' decisions to leave Ireland. Of the three respondents who had made definite plans to emigrate, two were doing so in order to ensure that they and their adult children i.

    The third respondent with definite emigration plans was emigrating as a direct result of the pre restrictions on work entitlements for dependent spouses. For the eight respondents considering leaving Ireland in the next few years — either to return home or to move to a third country — all but one mentioned the desire to reunite with friends and family as a reason. Some sought to reunite with siblings, others with their adult children whom they had been unable to bring to Ireland with them:. The decision to emigrate to ensure the integrity of the family unit was particularly difficult for those who had moved to Ireland specifically to reunite their families after years of separation while nursing in countries that prohibited family reunification:.

    You know, my goal at that time was to bring my families with me. I don't care how much is the pay or you know, as long as I can bring. Because I've been away from my kids for four years So this is the opportunity that came, that's why I grabbed it" Carol, Philippines, 40 s.

    In addition to those who sought amenable family reunification policies to enable their adult children to continue to reside with them, respondents with young children also spoke of their desire for improved family reunification policies to enable them to bring grandparents to Ireland for periods of time to assist with child care.

    Given the distances and travel costs involved, it was felt that the current three-month limit on such visits made the arrangements unfeasible. In return for their labour, respondents sought to live in Ireland with their spouses and children and also to maintain contact with other family members "back home" — for instance, by having their own parents or their adult children visit them in Ireland for extended periods.

    A related concern for respondents 13 was the issue of long-term residency and citizenship, in that Ireland's naturalization procedures effectively meant that the integrity of families currently living together was threatened. Although all family members may eventually achieve the same status in Ireland, in the meantime they hold a variety of immigration stamps and citizenship entitlements:. But then our children is the problem, you know" Carol, Philippines, 40 s.

    Migrant nurses are entitled to apply for citizenship when they have worked in Ireland for five years [ 29 ]; however, their dependent spouses must also wait until they have worked in Ireland for five years before they can apply. Given that dependent spouses of non-European Union workers had no right to work prior to [ 30 ], — one year after Ireland entered an economic recession — is the earliest possible date that nurses' spouses who entered the country as dependents could begin naturalization procedures.

    Under the current rules, one family member may acquire Irish citizenship while the rest of the family continue to renew their visas and immigration stamps. This is of concern to respondents, but their main fear is that family members, particularly children, may never achieve residency or citizenship in Ireland.

    When calculating the five years' residency required to achieve Irish citizenship via naturalization, time spent in full-time education is not considered [ 31 ]. Essentially this means that the children of migrant nurses, regardless of how long they had lived in Ireland, reach the end of their second-level education without any entitlement to apply for either long-term residency or citizenship [ 32 ] because time spent in the State "for the purposes of study" [ 31 ] does not count.

    A related issue for the children of migrant nurses was that, despite their residence in Ireland and their parents' employment in Ireland, they were not entitled to subsidized university fees, as Irish students are:. This prompted a difficult dilemma for migrant nurse parents as their children approached the end of their secondary education and sought to continue into university education. Especially my daughter wants to study, wants to study computers, but she can't. I don't know if she can work" Lisa, Philippines, 40 s. The other alternative was for respondents to relocate as a family unit to another developed country that will provide long-term residency or naturalization to both migrant nurses and their families, thereby ensuring the long-term integrity of the family unit:.

    America is offering green card straight away" Sheela, India, 20 s. Naturalization procedures were further complicated by the significant delays in processing citizenship applications. At the time of interview, this had led some respondents to question whether they would ever actually acquire Irish citizenship:.

    You know for example, his sister was in UK, she's been there for five years and now she's a citizen of UK, but that doesn't happen here, you work for five years and you don't become a citizen of Ireland like that" Sheela, India, 20 s. Although all respondents had secured permanent employment, some had purchased houses and all seemed to feel generally financiallysecure in Ireland, uncertainty surrounding citizenship entitlements caused respondents to question whether they had a long-term future here:.

    We're not here as just to work, we also want a place to live, you know what I'm saying? These findings correspond to calls by researchers and policy analysts, both in Ireland [ 29 , 33 ] and internationally [ 4 , 34 ] for a more holistic approach to migration, one that ensures that "the wider reality of migrants' lives forms part of the focus of public policy" [ 29 ]. In the Irish case, a specific "fast track" visa scheme was developed to facilitate the migration of migrant nurses to Ireland [ 2 ].

    It was later modified to enable the spouses of migrant workers to obtain employment in Ireland [ 30 ] and it would appear that further modification may be necessary to address the issues raised by respondents in relation to residency, naturalization and family integrity. The uncertainty and inconsistency evident in Irish migration, residence and naturalization procedures encouraged respondents to examine their options globally. Comparisons between the Irish and Canadian or American models were a common feature of interviews. Respondents noted that in addition to having clear-cut immigration and residency procedures, countries such as Canada also allowed skilled migrants to sponsor children aged over 18 years and other family members, such as parents or siblings, to join them.

    Thus, in addition to ensuring the integrity of the family unit, migration to Canada was also seen as enabling respondents to offer migration opportunities to other family members:. I'm happy with my job and I just want to go to Canada for my daughter, so that she can have a chance" Vina, Philippines, 40 s. For those whose spouses were currently unemployed or underemployed four in Ireland, migration was seen as an opportunity for career advancement or the opportunity to use their professional qualifications.

    If you asked me, honestly speaking, I'm sort of settled and happy now here in Ireland, I wouldn't go anywhere else" Francesca, Philippines, 30 s. Onward migration also offered professional opportunities.

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    For instance, one respondent spoke of her delight at being offered the opportunity to work in her area of expertise in Canada, something denied her in Ireland. She also spoke of the generous relocation package offered by a Canadian employer to facilitate her relocation. Another spoke of the lower cost of living in Canada. Others spoke about keeping their options open in terms of emigration:. Six respondents who planned to work in Ireland until retirement and then move back to their home countries following their retirement were certain of their plans:. I said, I need to enjoy, not always working.

    I been working since I was 19, I was already a nurse and now I'm already 51 so I said, I'd like to go home that I'm still able" Ivory, Philippines, 50 s. Those respondents who had definite plans to return home appeared among the most satisfied in Ireland. Perhaps that is because they had low or minimal expectations of Ireland beyond a continued right to work and earn a salary.

    Their version of migration — to stay, earn and leave — was perhaps also a closer "fit" with the Irish model of migration.

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    The 11 respondents who were planning to leave Ireland, including the three with immediate plans, had mixed feelings about doing so. Although excited about the opportunities available to them elsewhere, their excitement was also tinged with regret at having to leave Ireland,.

    Even some of those with definite migration plans had previously planned to remain in Ireland for the medium to long term, as evidenced in the long-term investments, both financial and social, that they had made in the country. Respondents appeared to have been unaware until recently of the difficulties that would force their emigration. In this case, the realization dawned as the children of this respondent approached school-leaving age:.

    But when we know about the laws that's, I said 'oh God"' Carol, Philippines, 40 s. There was a sense of frustration among respondents at having to leave Ireland, having already invested considerable time and energy in settling here:. I don't know, it's so difficult to accept, but that's the way it goes" Clara, Philippines, 30 s. Because it's hard to start and start and start again, you know' Clara, Philippines, 30 s.

    Frustration stemmed from the fact that there was still a nursing shortage in Ireland, but that the procedures that might enable them to remain — in terms of naturalisation, residency or immigration — were not in place. On an individual or a family level, respondents felt they could not afford to wait in Ireland in the hope that these issues would be resolved. Despite expressions of regret about the possibility of onward migration, respondents had no hesitation in explaining that their primary concern was their families:. I love to stay here because it's quiet, it's a safe place, it's a good thing, you know, those things, but the only, we need our family, you know, that's the most, I think that's the number one, family" Ivory, Philippines, 50 s.

    Respondent nurses had been involved in the international recruitment "game" for some time and were acutely aware of the need to look after their own interests and maintain the integrity of their family unit, whatever the cost. The main finding to emerge from interviews with migrant nurses was that over half 11 of those interviewed intended to leave the country within the next five years. Verification figures from the Irish Nursing Board would appear to support this finding. In , Indian and Filipino nurses sought to have their Irish registrations verified by nursing boards in countries such as Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom Irish Nursing Board, unpublished data [ 14 ].

    In other words, they had expressed their intention to migrate from Ireland. This could be seen to confirm the conclusion that "migration is becoming increasingly transitory"[ 35 ] or to support the belief that international recruits are unreliable [ 4 ]. However, most nurses interviewed in this study were leaving because Ireland had failed to provide sufficient long-term security, via residency or citizenship entitlements, to their families.

    Although we had anticipated that the onward migration of migrant nurses might be an issue to emerge from the research, we had expected workplace-related factors or salary and cost-of-living issues to play a deciding role in the decision: Instead, interviews revealed that the desire to be settled and stable was more important for respondents and far outweighed career-related considerations and other endogenous health systems factors in determining whether they would stay or leave Ireland.

    Those who planned to remain spoke of being settled. Those who planned to leave Ireland regularly cited the desire for stability as a major consideration. Whereas respondent nurses prioritized stability, destination countries such as Ireland hold a more short-term view of migration and are less likely to automatically provide migrants with entitlements to permanently settle. These "dramatic shifts in the destinations of migration, restrictions on residency and strict limitations on settlement" [ 36 ] have fundamentally altered migration for individual migrants, and for source and destination countries.

    In the face of these changes, traditional explanations of migration, which emphasize the movement of people "pushed" from the source country and "pulled" towards the destination country so as to improve their financial situation, provide a limited and even misleading framework as the "rationale of economic calculation that this model presupposes is also too limited to embrace the complex motivations of migrants" [ 36 ].

    Respondent decisions to remain in or to leave Ireland involved weighing up a complex range of factors, such as considering children's future educational needs and perhaps the long-term care needs of elderly parents, in addition to any personal or financial motivations for migration. Factors influencing migrant nurse decisions to stay or leave Ireland adapted from Padarath, [ 28 ]. From such a perspective the question of personal choice may simply seem like the wrong question. It gives too much attention to the individual's present action, and blurs the complex networks of responsibilities that link a person to the past and future" [ 36 ].