Blog

The spirit of volunteering

The coronavirus pandemic has prompted a rush of volunteers - it's an inspiring moment, and a reminder of the benefits and lasting power of volunteering.

Ana Paula Pinto reads textbook and performs in classroom activity with the students from primary school at Kyakathone primary school, Kyike Ma Yaw township, Mon state on 5 December,2019.

Life as an education volunteer in Myanmar

After nearly three decades working as a teacher, Portuguese volunteer Ana Paula Pinto shares her experiences volunteering in Myanmar. Educating children here has not always been a priority but Ana Paula says that’s changing, slowly but surely.

Winners of the Volunteer Impact Awards 2018

A night to remember: Global volunteers celebrated at VSO Awards

VSO volunteers, supporters and friends came together to celebrate the impact of volunteering for development at the Volunteer Impact Awards.

“I used to feel bad about my low performance” – Pramila's story

Pramila, 13, used to take the lion’s share of domestic work, leaving little time for study. But since she met her ‘Big Sister’ and mentor, Rama, her academic performance and confidence have greatly improved.

Making the dough: Women in Ghana on baking for a better future

VSO and Mondelēz International, one of the world’s largest confectionary companies, are equipping women farmers with training and support to start their own business enterprises. Two women share the story of how Cocoa Life has given them more independence.

Four reasons you should volunteer overseas if you're retired

Volunteering overseas provides retired professionals with a wealth of personal and professional rewards, as well as the chance to make a real difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

NGOs and government jointly commit to improving safeguarding standards

NGOs, DFID, the Charity Commission and safeguarding experts pledged to improve safeguarding standards, following the Safeguarding Summit on 5 March 2018. Here is our joint statement.

What does ‘Zero Tolerance’ mean at VSO?

As new revelations about abuse and harassment within our sector come to light, we at VSO have also been reflecting on what ‘zero tolerance’ means to us as an organisation.

Our commitment to the world’s most vulnerable

As Chief Executive of an international development organisation, recent reports on sexual abuse and exploitation carried out by employees at aid organisations have been incredibly difficult to read and watch. They have left me feeling appalled and at times disillusioned.

10 snapshots into life as a volunteer doctor in Uganda

Hi, I’m Dr Lierka Rodriguez. I am a volunteer obstetrician and gynaecologist working in rural Uganda. Here are some of my favourite moments of my time as a volunteer.

Women in Nepal holding hands during an intervention session

Domestic burden: Young wives in Nepal face violence for 'falling short'

In Nepal, married women are expected to be the perfect wives and mothers. VSO research into the Baglung District of Nepal has shown this problem goes much deeper - women face violence for not meeting these exacting standards, living in claustrophobic communities where all eyes are on them.

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