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.
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 […]
Known for its delicious food, beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and crystal clear water, Sicily has it all! Here Susan Bedford, a three-time Global Volunteer, gives us some insight into the culture of this fascinating region of Italy, and Global Volunteers’ newest partner community, Castelvetrano. By Susan Bedford Sicily has everything a traveler could desire: stunning […]
Through the generations, the indigenous people of the Andes have lived in an interdependent society that relies on every member to honor the other. All work is shared, but more – prayer, play and projects are conducted as a community. The Quechua word for this mutuality is “ayni”, meaning “today for you, tomorrow for me,” suggesting […]
In Hanoi’s city center, people for generations have integrated Hoàn Kiếm Lake into their daily lives. Central to their social, physical and cultural routines, youth and adults crowd the site day and night. In the early morning, community elders congregate in traditional areas to practice Tai Chi, while youth and young adults jog on the […]
Global Volunteers 2020