The Model Volunteer
Thank you for your interest in becoming a Village Volunteer –
a person who values international service and is committed to working
with the disadvantaged, across cultural lines. Through our programs,
you will have the opportunity to offer a hand in friendship and partnership
by sharing in the work of local communities; in this way, you champion
the cause of compassionate global citizenry. We hope that the philosophy
and mission behind Village Volunteers will inspire you as you set out on
your journey.
Understanding the Village Volunteers Approach
The Village Volunteers approach is one of consideration, kindness, and a
commitment to human rights. Through collaboration with local communities on
a wide variety of projects, volunteers have the opportunity to strengthen ties
across the boundaries of international borders, race, gender, age, and culture.
If you are accepted as a Village Volunteer we will ask that you follow the below guidelines.
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Approach your international service experience with an open mind and
heart, see yourself as a student rather than an educator, as a helper rather than a leader.
Village Volunteers asks that before departure, volunteers understand the realistic limits
of their abilities to solve a community’s problems. This approach can sometimes seem
frustrating, as volunteers frequently feel that they can offer many solutions to a
village’s problems. These feelings are usually deceptive, however. A community’s problems
are often complex and interwoven with its cultural practices, beliefs, and history. Answers
are rarely found on the surface, or developed in a matter of weeks. Come without
preconceived ideas, and your opportunity to learn will be greatly enhanced.
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When volunteers are placed in a village program, their safety and needs are
paramount to the hosts, Program Director, and the U.S. team. Remember that Village
Volunteers does not assume to manage specific projects from a distance; much freedom
is given to you and your Program Director in identifying your volunteer activities.
It is in working together that mutual understanding is rooted.
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We understand that it is important for volunteers to feel engaged in the
community. However, we ask that you remember that the pace of life is typically
much slower in village communities. Still there is much value in simply taking
time to absorb your environment and learn from those around you. Don’t expect to
leave your fast-paced life, enter a village, and feel like you are immediately
useful and fully engaged. Be patient. Try not to get frustrated with the slow pace.
You may feel that there is simply not enough time to “make a difference”, but understand
that your very presence is valued and that does make a difference.
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Be tolerant and understanding of conditions that may arise during your stay.
At any moment, the best-laid plan may have to be put aside because of a death in
the community, inclement weather, lack of funding, or a multitude of other factors.
Life in a rural setting is unpredictable, particularly to those who are just visiting.
If you tend to need to feel in control, try to leave those feelings at home. The benefits
to you will be a greater peace of mind and appreciation for the intangible contributions
you are making to the community.
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Words of Wisdom for Volunteers
The model volunteer embraces the below words of wisdom as shared by one of our partner NGO Program Directors.
Come with an open mind, ready to absorb a flood of new information and new frame of reference.
Leave your expectations at home. Observe without judgment until you fully understand all the
factors. If something strikes you as being "backwards", objectively consider why it is acceptable
in this culture. You will probably find valid reasons. I do recommend that during your first few
weeks or months simply observe, learn, and try to understand the culture. See how things "work"
here. Try to remember that there is never just one right way to do something. You most likely
will see many things that are considered backward, but are common and appropriate here. Just
remember that often there is no right or wrong.
Leave your material possessions at home. You will need very little of them here.
What you will need is natural curiosity, a positive attitude, plenty of patience and a
willingness to help those in need. You certainly will have to deal with frustrations of
development work. But a generous smile to warmly offer, the desire to accept many friendships,
and an untiring sense of humor will assure you that a trip of a lifetime is ahead of you.
You will never see the world the same way. It is up to you to make the most of this valuable
experience that you have created!
~Joshua Machinga, Common Ground Program Director
A Catalyst for Hope
Distinct responsibilities come with being a volunteer in a developing country.
By making the commitment to assist people of another culture, you have accepted an
obligation as an ambassador of good will to carefully adhere to the policies, goals,
and principles of Village Volunteers.
All of the villages are struggling economically and have substantial needs.
However, they also have tremendous hope for the future. Village Volunteers participants
provide a catalyst for this hope. Your efforts support the goals, and further inspire
the endeavors, of the village communities. Your helping hand is magnified a hundred fold
by the good will that it brings.
Apply Now
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