Global Volunteers September 15, 2006 Like thousands of North Americans, Stamford residents Denise Greenman and her daughter Jennifer, 17, traveled to Crete this summer. Yet, unlike the typical sun and scooter island experience, theirs was a unique journey of learning and service. For two weeks in July, this adventurous mother and daughter joined a Global Volunteers team that taught English at a summer camp in the community of Gazi, located along the northern coast of Crete near the city of Iraklion. The summer camp was attended by youngsters from several local villages who rarely have an opportunity to practice their oral language skills, let alone meet North Americans. They participated in informal classes that often took the form of crafts lessons, song sessions and recreational games. As is often the case, the teachers learned more than the students as they immersed themselves in the local culture. The Greenmans enjoyed sharing their lives with local villagers. During free time, the volunteers had the opportunity to explore ancient Minoan ruins at Knossos and Phaestos [dating back to 2000-1400 B.C.], historical museums, Crete's breathtaking gorges and the coastal ports of Chania and Matala. More on The Stamford Times, Global Volunteers Author : Travel to Crete