David was thunderstruck when at age 17 he visited South America. Harsh poverty of Brazilian favelas presented a patchwork of tin and corn stalks cobbled together as homes. A family of five would share the only double bed mattress on the hovel floor. Drinking, washing, and sewer water emanated from a single source. Shanties stretched to the horizon. David's tears were mixed with the realization of the inequities in life. This was his pivotal moment of humanitarian awakening

David's passion for politics, history and activism fomented his resolve as a Central American Peace Corps Volunteer. In his small community, David actively worked for schools and community gardens. There David was uniquely positioned in northern Costa Rica and watched both community and global issues unfold. Routine daily work tasks blended in with the hotbed of historical and political issues that impact the region and the world today.