Journeying Together
Dan Castro joined Oasis in 2008 as a volunteer. As Steve's driver, Dan gives Newsround an exclusive on life in the driving seat, and how giving, rather than receiving, is key.
How did you hear about Oasis? And why choose to work with us?
I heard Steve Chalke speaking last summer in the States, and that's when I first heard about Oasis. Hearing about all that Oasis was involved in really caught my interest and I wanted to be a part of it. I had been praying for a few years about working with a church ministry or organisation but couldn't find anything that seemed to be doing what I wanted to get involved in...until Oasis!
So what does your job entail exactly?
A lot of driving! Taking Steve to all his meetings and appointments. It's been a great way to see the country. When I'm not driving, I spend my time working in the office. If there is an event going on within Oasis I'll help out with that. I'm really interested in what STOP THE TRAFFIK is doing and I like to hang out with the kids at the Southside radio station. It's not a routine job - everyday something new.
How do you find all that travelling?
Trying to keep up with Steve and his schedule can be exhausting, but it's also motivating andinspiring working so closely to Steve - seeing how he does things and then having the chance to question him. Sometimes I feel like his apprentice!
What have you learnt about Steve that other people wouldn't usually know about him?
He takes his tuna plain, his tea with no sugar, and he is a fan of early Eminem
Really?! What about you; have you changed at all?
I think the biggest thing that has changed for me is my faith in God has been brought to a new level. I have been able to question others and what they believe and why they believe it. But even coming here and volunteering for a year with the faith that God would provide for me and seeing how that happens daily has helped me to grow closer in my relationship with Him.
What would you say to someone thinking about voluntary work?
For me personally spending a year watching and learning from Steve makes me want to get out and put it into practice. Giving your time, talents, and abilities and not expecting anything in return has to be one of the greatest gifts you can give to someone. It is a great way to learn about yourself and others and have some experiences you might not be able to have otherwise. You get real satisfaction through selfless giving. I would say if an opportunity ever comes your way, take it on. It doesn't have to be for a year; give a week, give a day. Give whatever you can, whenever you can...Oh, and Oasis is a great place to do it!
Dan is leading a group to Oasis Mozambique in the summer to install a water tap in one of the communities we work with there. We need over 250 volunteers every year in order to support our work. If you want to be an Oasis volunteer in the UK, just email Charlie. For opportunities overseas, email Lisa.