While service to children and families is the purpose of Global Volunteers programs, working alongside local people is the best way to experience culture and traditions in your host country. Learn more about some of the customs, language and history that comes alive when serving for one, two or three weeks with Global Volunteers.
Daniel Salazar, former Peru Country Manager, writes about “three unusual things Peruvians do to celebrate Christmas.” This is #3: Fireworks on Christmas. #3 Fireworks on Christmas: Everyone loves fireworks – except for dogs. You might have pleasant memories of fireworks on the 4th of July or on your trip to Disney. That is nice, but Peruvians take […]
Each summer, since 2000 (except for 2020), Global Volunteers has worked in partnerships with the Blackfeet people on community priorities – focusing on labor, elder services and family health and recreation projects. The first volunteer team in 2022 – 10 individuals aged19 to 73 – served from June 5-11. Thirteen service programs follow through early […]
When you think of Greece, what comes to mind? The rise of democracy? The Olympic Games, ancient history and philosophy, Minotaurs and mythology? Perhaps you think of magnificent temples, the clear waters of the Aegean Sea, sandy beaches, mountain villages, or small windy roads blocked by sheep and goats. Greece is also known as the […]
Volunteers serving in Poland get a unique opportunity to stay at a beautiful and comfortable 200-year-old restored manor house named Reymontówka in Siedlce County. It is, for many volunteers, a highlight of their service program. Reymontówka has a very rich history, having been purchased with award funds by Nobel Laureate Władysław Reymont’s widow, later being […]
Six-time Global Volunteer Ann Sweeney has served in Cuba three times – including twice for New Year’s celebrations, where she enjoyed Cuban graciousness and tradition. She writes of making connections and nurturing friendships as the focus for Cubans at this very special time of year. By Ann Sweeney After the first train whistle blasted in […]
In the midst of all the challenges of 2020 and a seemingly never-ending pandemic, our community partner in Peru, Sagrada Familia children’s home, sends a Christmas video message to all Global Volunteers alumni and supporters. by Peru Country Manager Daniel Salazar Full of hope and meaning, this message lifts me up and remind us all […]
On the beautiful island of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean sea, tourism starts winding down during the month of September. But there’s no rest for our Sicilian friends; in fact, it’s one of the year’s busiest times for local families. It’s harvest time in Sicily. Long-time Volunteer Country Manager Phyllis Thompson shares her […]
As we all confront new questions and conflicts each day about our safety, health and economic security during the pandemic, we appreciate our inspired partners around the world. Every Global Volunteers development partnership has its own origin story and offers its unique inspiration. And, local community leaders personally have overcome threats to their own peace […]
Global Volunteers co-founder Michele Gran talked with Global Volunteers’ Community Partner Camillus Laurencin along with Country Manager Chemida Popo-Cox in St. Lucia about the power of community in the face of adversity. Read on for lessons from the resilient people of Anse la Raye during our worldwide coronavirus crisis. First the churches closed; then the […]
Regardless their age and ethnicity, mothers the world over have common needs. What are they? Global Volunteers suggests that no matter where mothers live and work, they all share these basic, and universally recognized desires. And they deserve our support. Mothers’ and children’s needs are inextricably interrelated. Perhaps no stronger bond exists on Earth than […]
Global Volunteers 2020