Lopezian Brian Swanson has always wanted his daughters to be compassionate and caring.

“We’ve always encouraged them to find their role in society and how they can contribute within our community,” said Swanson.

Now the father of two is not only talking the talk, but walking the walk all the way in Haiti.

In just a few weeks, on Nov. 29, he will be joining the National Rural Electrical Co-op Association’s International Foundation as a volunteer linemen in the southern part of Haiti for a three-week assignment. The project called “Haiti Rural Electric Cooperative Project” encompasses the three villages of Coteaux, Roche-a-Bateau and Port-a-Piment, along the Caribbean ocean. The work includes the repair, upgrading and building of new power lines.

According to NRECAU documents, up to 1,600 new consumers will be connected through the course of the project. Lineman will also provide hands-on training for the local crew.

After receiving a newsletter about the project this summer, Swanson jumped at the chance to get involved.

“I saw this opportunity to help, where my skill-set would benefit others and where I could give back,” said the lineman, who has worked at OPALCO for eight and a half years.

This will be Swanson’s first volunteer project abroad. He currently volunteers with youth sports, the school and with a variety of community events.

Swanson’s daughter Brianne has also been inspired to go overseas to donate her time. She is traveling to Nicaragua in February with her Spanish class to help in a small village.

For Swanson, volunteering is not just about doing a good deed, but also as something he does for himself.

“I like to help people, it makes me feel good and gives me a sense of accomplishment,” he said.