I discovered the A.R.C. Worldwide Trust in August 2007 through the UN Online Volunteering Website. At the time, I was looking for a way to make myself useful in that quieter period of summer. I am a freelance translator from English into French, and on browsing the UN Volunteering website I realised that translations were in great demand. Indeed, charities rely on translation to raise global awareness of their cause. Translation, being a matter not only of message but also of image, it is therefore crucial they get a translation of good quality.
I was therefore set on putting my skills at the service of a worthwhile cause. I decided to answer the A.R.C. Worldwide Trust because I deeply share their idea that everything must be done to enforce children’s rights across the world. The enthusiasm and determination of this young charity were also very palpable throughout the website, and I was happy to help its staff reach a wider audience.
Translating the Trust’s website has proved an enriching experience in many ways. As translating always implies a lot of research so as to choose the most accurate term as possible, I learnt a lot about the living conditions of children in some parts of the world. I also gained a deeper understanding of the workings of not-for-profit organisations. Besides, Natasha Tassell, one of the trustees, has been very supportive throughout the project; always prompt to clarify a point, very open to suggestions and flexible when work started getting busy again.
After working for some time on this project, I have become very interested in the charity and I am looking forward to seeing the progress of its actions through the updating of the French version of the website.
Audrey Langlassé lives in Glasgow, Scotland where she runs À la carte translations, a business that provides English to French translation and proof-reading services. She was a volunteer for the A.R.C. Worldwide Trust between August and December 2007 when she translated the whole website into French. Audrey continues to volunteer for the Trust by updating the French website on a monthly basis.
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