From real estate to real change: Dan Peters' journey volunteering overseas

Back in 2007, Dan Peters, a CREB^® member, was invited to go on a trip to Rwanda with an organization called Home of Hope, founded by one of his close friends.

A child-focused, church-based, non-profit organization, Home of Hope helps thousands of children and orphans with monthly sponsorships, school and food programs, and animal projects. The organization also helps women become self-sufficient with microloans and other initiatives.

After his first trip, Peters knew it wouldn’t be the last. As a volunteer for Home of Hope, he has travelled 25 times to different countries, including Kenya, Ghana, India, Nepal and Turkey.

What has kept Peters eager to return to volunteering, is “seeing the difference the program makes in people’s lives.”

In his travels, he has witnessed victims of neglect and sexual abuse rebuild their lives after they are relocated somewhere new.

At their new homes, they receive medical intervention and treatment, as well as literacy, business training and in some cases, the financing of a microloan to start a small business.

As a volunteer for over 15 years, Peters’ fondest memory is connected to a personal battle – his wife, Evelyn, and his eldest daughter and mother of two young children, Tanya, joined him on a trip to Rwanda.

Tanya fell in love with the country and its people, so she and her husband adopted the young Ardi, now 15 years old and one of Peters’ seven grandchildren.
Regrettably, in 2013, Tanya, Peters’ daughter, was diagnosed with stomach cancer and was only given a couple of months to live.

Even though she fought and lived for over two years, she passed away at the age of 39. In her memory, the Peters’ family created The Tanya Project.

“Each year, we raise funds for special projects for our rescued orphans. Our organization is the guardian for providing the best education possible,” says Peters.
A REALTOR^® for 30 years, Peters adds that the volunteer work he does has increased his sense of purpose and passion to continue thriving in the real estate business.

“I want to continue self-funding my travels and expenses, as well as contribute to projects that make a big difference in people’s lives,” he says.

Peters encourages CREB^® members to volunteer in organizations of their interest as he says this work will help enrich their lives.

Tagged: Volunteer