The Third Wave: A Volunteer Story
“The powerful takeaway of this distinct and heartfelt memoir is that saving and rebuilding lives is not the work of superheroes. ‘Volunteering can happen anywhere at any time and can last for just an hour,’ Thompson writes, later imploring readers to ‘[b]e the brightest light you can be and lead the way in the dark.’ The book vividly epitomizes the Talmudic saying that while one may not be able to finish a huge and ambitious task, it does not mean one should not try.”—The Boston Globe“In a world of turmoil,The Third Waveis a welcome and inspiring account of what one woman and her friends can accomplish against the greatest odds. Ride this wave and feel better about the generation ready to lead us all ashore.”—Tom Brokaw“Alison Thompson’s captivating life story and adventures in volunteering make us all want to be better citizens of our planet. We can all contribute, she fearlessly tells us, not just with her soaring words with even more with her inspiring actions.”—Edwidge Danticat, author ofBrother, I’m Dying“Alison Thompson is an inspiration. Whereas most people check out after a crisis, Thompson remains there on the ground, loving, caring, and communicating the need for awareness and help. Her creativity and healing are incomparable in a crisis and deliver the messages that are needed around the world. This book is a must-read and a call to action.”—Donna Karan “Alison Thompson’s fine bookThe Third Waveteaches and emphasizes the value of effective, appropriate volunteerism, even when severe negative circumstances limit the number of fellow human beings who can be helped.”—Tony Duke, founder of Boys & Girls Harbor“Readers will marvel at Thompson’s ability to leave her life midstream to help others, clearly relishing the adventure as much as the opportunity to serve. She urges readers to redefine heroism by doing whatever they can with examples of small efforts with great impact.”—Publishers Weekly