Global Volunteers is totally committed to catalyzing local self-reliance by helping community partners deliver essential services to vulnerable and at-risk children. We make a difference so you can make a difference. To be consistently helpful in another culture requires expertise in program management, community development, and volunteer coordination. This means in our international work:
- We protect host community independence and autonomy
- We guard against exploitation of local people
- We are vigilant in monitoring our cultural impact
- We provide comprehensive, integrated community service
- We employ experts in micro-economic and human development
- We choose our local hosts and service projects carefully
- We've gained the respect of others in the field
~ David Minich, director of Habitat for Humanity's Global Village work camp program
Communities embody their cultural, social and economic issues, and know their needs and priorities. They realize the barriers to, as well as the possibilities for, their advancement. This local wisdom guides the community projects to deliver essential services that are central to Global Volunteers' work. As volunteers, we don't suggest "results" or bring "solutions." Our dedicated host partners, in directing our efforts, ensure optimal development assistance through volunteers' work.
Our mantra is: "Local people are always in charge." We believe that true development mobilizes empowered people: Both those seeking assistance, and those who seek to serve them. Nurturing long-term relationships is central to our worldwide success. We invest comprehensive resources to provide continuous local program support and are proud to still be working in the host community we first served in 1984. Join our legacy of true service!
"Global Volunteers was one of about a dozen NGOs I researched. We chose Global Volunteers because they supplied excellent information, and we liked the fact that all projects are in partnership with local people."
~ Judi Lees, Peru and India volunteer