Here at PSF we are always having breakout groups for anything in which we want to move forward on but want a collective opinion about. This week Bryan organized a breakout session after dinner to brainstorm about ideas for PSF’s vision and mission. After being announced at several morning meetings, the breakout session took place with great success. At seven o’clock Thursday night about twenty-five volunteers made their way to the communal area and instantly you could feel the energy in the room.
 Before we broke off into groups Bryan explained the difference between vision and mission. Vision is what we want the final result of PSF to be. It’s the goal that all of our projects should be working towards, and also be in sync with the values and goals of the people who we are helping. Mission describes the steps that we’re going to take in able to reach our vision. Deciding these two very important items wasn’t as easy as it seemed.
I found this breakout session to be amazingly productive and creative for several reasons. First, I think it reflects the way in which PSF operates. One thing that is so incredible about this organization is that every person that walks through our doors has the opportunity to have their voice heard, and see change be made. Here at PSF it isn’t just a few admin people who call the shots in regards to where this organization in heading, it’s the everyday volunteer was well. The group that went to this week’s meeting represented what PSF is. PSF is made up of volunteers that have been here for a year, 5months, 4weeks, a few days, and any length of time in between who are all here to help the people of Pisco and help PSF move forward.

 The second reason why I found this meeting to be efficient was because it allows the opportunity for further development. By breaking off into smaller groups, everyone’s thoughts and opinions were heard. Then once each group had come up with their own vision and mission, we all came together and to share and improve. The next day at the morning meeting we told those who didn’t attend the breakout session what had happened and left copies of all of the proposed visions and missions along with space for suggestions. That night we once again called another breakout session to order with some fresh new opinions and input.
My third reason for claiming this session to be productive is because I think all the volunteers feel what our vision and mission is. It’s what has brought us here, and has kept us here. When we work, we know what we’re working towards, and what our goals for this organization are, we just needed to put into in to the perfect words so that we can send that message and spirit out to other people