VIP Alumni

Where are they now?
​by: Maria Aguila 

              Children Beyond Our Borders was founded in 2003 by four University of Florida students that were inspired and motivated to make a lasting difference in our world. Ever since 2003, CBOB has been blessed with countless welcomes and farewells; some farewells being temporary. CBOB has embraced and kept contact with many of the individuals that decided their mission was to give children in need a lifetime of happiness. Despite all the new marvelous volunteers and interns each semester, our past members remain family. CBOB is on a constant, never-ending journey to improve communities across the world. Thanks to our past and current CBOB members, we have begun to create a world with an abundance of serenity and knowledge.

         Sophia Gianfrancisco was a past Public Relations and Social Media intern involved with the VIP program here at CBOB. This organization helped her realize a calling of hers - helping and connecting with people on a personal level. She also took advantage of our BFP mission trip opportunities in order to help children in need with hands on hands activities.

           “Since CBOB I moved out to Colorado and worked as a Zero Waste Coordinator, helping to make local events waste free. As part of my job I got to sort through a lot of trash and help educate the community on which products go where, and the end result of certain habits that we often don't think twice about. I love sustainability and doing my part to help the environment but I think I really miss connecting with people past a surface level. I recently moved back to Florida and am looking into more opportunities that are centered around helping low income and underprivileged students and families. I have CBOB to thank for so much and really appreciate the work that you all continue to carry on because it is so important!” - Sophia Gianfrancisco.

         Another former intern that partook in our VIP program is Anna Diakun. Anna was a Service Trip Director, and has continued to prosper and flourish through her intense desire to help others. CBOB was the first step in becoming what she has wanted to be her entire life, an aspiring Social Worker.

          “When I finished working for CBOB in May, I went on a trip to Istanbul, Turkey; to experience the beautiful culture, learn about all the history, and to visit 6 friends from Turkey that studied in the US! Then, since the start of fall- I have started a Master's degree in Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As an aspiring Social Worker, I am looking forward to advocating for changes in society that promote more equality and equity for its members, particularly focusing on children. Ways I hope to make changes are by working with nonprofits, community agencies, and by working on policy changes. I also am working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to provide counseling and mental health services to children, adolescents, and families. I am always open and available for anyone who has questions about becoming a Social Worker or what all you can do in the field of Social Work, or even if anyone has questions about Graduate school, UNC, anything!” - Anna Diakun.

             Karin Fazio is another very involved, previous intern of ours in the VIP program. Karin was part of the Public Relations team, and has continued to help others beyond CBOB.

              "This Fall I've been mainly focused on preparing for my study abroad trip this Spring! I've been given the amazing opportunity to study Communications over at IE University in Segovia, Spain! Aside from this, I've been working closely with Global UCF as well as the Office of Student Involvement marketing team whenever I'm not in class or at work." - Karin Fazio.

              Past CBOB members have continued to give wings to those scared to soar, and that is truly inspiring. We are proud to say that they have continued to positively impact the lives of others, despite the organization. Our former members are achieving great things and fulfilling their own dreams at the same time. Good luck to our alumni, we are hesitant to hear about what you’ll accomplish next!