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GVN Be The Change Program
The week long Be The Change Course, based in New Zealand, is designed to take your idea or dream and give you the skills and confidence you need to make it a reality.
If you want to develop a meaningful career or social enterprise; start a non-profit/charity organization; get a job with a non-profit/charity or simply learn more about international development then GVN's Be The Change (BTC) Program is the one for you!
The BTC program is led by Colin Salisbury, Founder and President of Global Volunteer Network, and one of the world's leading social entrepreneurs. Recently Bill Gates recognized Colin's work by recommending that young people volunteer with Global Volunteer Network. Assistant facilitators of this program are each social entrepreneurs in their own right.
The Projects
The 'Be the Change' Program is a week-long intensive course designed to train individuals how to become change agents in communities around the world. This is the program for you if you would like to:
* Start a non-profit/charity organization
* Get paid to make a difference in the lives of others.
* Get a job with a non-profit/charity
* Start a social enterprise or project
* Or if you just want to learn more about the field of Social Entrepreneurship and /or International Development
Taupo (New Zealand) 2012
November 18 - 24, 2012
Facilitators, including Colin Salisbury, live in accommodation with all the Be The Change participants during the course and spend the entire week with the group.
The week starts with a discussion about how each participant wants to contribute to social change. From there, facilitators will take the group through a series of workshops designed to address the skills needed to start a nonprofit organization, development project and /or social enterprise.
The workshops are flexible and the facilitators will focus each workshop on those skills that will most benefit the group as a whole.
Gallery
Video
About the Facilitators
Courtney
Please imagine this. Please imagine all the stress, the drama, and the frustration in your current life- all those things that get in the way of you going after your dream to help humanity. Now imagine yourself plucked out of those worries, frustrations and fears and dropped into a beautiful, slightly secluded, place in New Zealand. Now imagine there are 10 other like-minded, caring individuals in this place. These are individuals just like you, people who want to change the world.
Now imagine seven days with this group. Each day facilitators guide you through a series of workshops designed to address your goals, your vision, and to give you the skills you need stop dreaming and start doing. Now imagine ending the week with 10 new lifelong friends, a clear vision of where you intend to go with your life, new social entrepreneurship skills, and enough confidence, connections, and inspiration to keep you going long after the week is over.
If you can imagine all of that, you will have gotten a little taste of Be The Change.
Colin
Be The Change helps you transform your ideas into action. Whether you want a job where you are living your passion, or if you want to start something new, this program caters for people at both ends of the spectrum.
Be prepared for a week like nothing you have experienced before. You will discover a group of likeminded individuals who will all be in your corner willing you to win. The exciting thing for me is seeing the potential in each person and guiding them towards unleashing their passion on the world.
Magogodi
A wise teacher and friend recently told me an amusing story. Do you remember Candid Camera, that silly show packed with even sillier pranks on everyday people? Well, once they raised a door and put an inviting sign on its frame--For Other People Only. Cameras are discreetly positioned to spy on unassuming passersby, many stop to glare at this sign and decide to walk on. Others observe other people walk in. A brave few wondered within. What stood behind this door? Who were these others who deserved to walk through? My wise friend, the dude who told me about this episode, relays how his childhood as a low-income scrappy kid from the Bronx was marked by being told that certain doors were For Other People Only--doors to higher education, to entrepreneurship, doors to dreaming, doors that ultimately lead to full self-realization. Even as a child, this wise dude decided he'd walk through any door he wanted, or at least find an open window to creep through, because he'd found the thing inside him that said he was worth it, because he decided to be the change. In coming to a place such as Be The Change, you are obviously looking for ways to walk through sealed doors marked For Other People Only. But before you even knock on this door, beware, Here Be Dragons. Bring your best self forward. Walk purposefully and as you enter, remember that beyond this point is truly For Other People Only. Do you have what it takes to Be The Change?
Partnerships
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Be The Change program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
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*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – US $2497
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Volunteer House. |
| Meals: | 3 meals daily |
| Airport pickup: | On arrival and departure date. |
| Training: | Facilitation and instruction during the training course. |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, airport departure tax.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $50 for your other expenses such as bottled water, personal items, beverages, and entertainment.
Schedule
Program Schedule
Start Date:
- November 18th - 24th, 2012 – Taupo, New Zealand
Length: 1 week
Please note:
Upon your arrival you will be taken to your accommodation. Workshops aren't scheduled on the first day to allow people to rest after their flight. That evening we will have a group meal and a chance to talk/get to know the other participants and facilitators.
The next day the course formally starts. You will start your first full day on the course with a workshop designed to identify your future dreams and goals. From there each person will discuss their project/idea for social change with the group. Facilitators will then tailor each of the following workshops to address the needs of the group. Have a look at our example schedule.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
What will I be actually doing?
The GVN ’Be The Change’ Course is designed to be flexible and self-determined to allow participants to cater the program to their specific interests and goals. Each day we will have a workshop that will provide you with specific skills that you can then directly apply to your project/idea or goal. Additionally we will be going on day trips with the focus of getting to know each other better. By the end of the course you will have become friends with a diverse an interesting group of individuals from all over the world. Additionally, each day you will have time to discuss ideas and workshop your interests with Colin Salisbury, GVN’s Founder and CEO. This program gives you one on one time with one of the top social entrepreneurs in the industry of international development.
Are we able to do any sightseeing during the program?
We offer our Be The Change program in beautiful locations around the world. During the week long program we will visit sites around the area but there will not be time for individual travel. Many of our participants choose to arrive early or leave late so they may do their own traveling before or after the course.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program fee covers accommodation, meals and transport costs while working. If you arrive early or intend to stay in the country beyond the course dates you will need to have additional money for this time. Other expenses not covered by your fees include: your flights, entry visa (if applicable), travel insurance, departure tax, and any personal spending.
Tell me more about the accommodation?
You will be staying with other participants; the accommodation is modern and has most amenities people will be used to (TV, internet access, washing facilities etc). Most accommodation is in retreat or conference centres. Bedding and 3 meals per day will be provided.
How many participants are there at the GVN Training program at the same time?
The GVN Be The Change Course is limited to under 20 participants at any time to allow for maximum individual attention and productivity.
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until two calendar months before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Who organizes my visa?
If you require a visa to enter New Zealand you will be responsible for obtaining one yourself.
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
Can I bring my family, including children, to this program with me?
Because of the nature of the accommodation, and the work that you will be involved with, it is not appropriate to bring children with you for this project. However, it is fine to participate as a couple.
What kind of orientation will I receive when I arrive?
Orientation day
- Breakfast
- 1. Meeting with Colin Salisbury, founder of GVN - Greeting, Introduction to 'Be The Change' Course
- 2. Meet staff, introductions and explanation of what everyone does
- 3. Know exactly the Goals and Objectives of the 'Be The Change Course'
- 4. Skills/Passions Identification- How are you Wired? Workshop
- 5. In the afternoon you will have time for going into town / group activity.
How to Apply
Program Requirements
Volunteers for the Be The Change course must:
- Be 18 years old or over
- Be from a country that will allow you to obtain a Visa to come to New Zealand such as: countries in North or South America, UK, Europe, Japan, China, Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, South Africa, or Australia
- Be proficient in English
- Possess initiative and an enthusiasm for learning about social entrepreneurship and willing to be an active participant in workshops.
- Be willing to brainstorm and choose an idea or project to work on while you are on the course (more information about this process will be provided to you after you have signed up).
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
Steve Kalenich
"BTC program ... It was a wonderful experience. I can tell you from the way it went that in my opinion each program will be different due to the fact that it is a living thing that Collin and Courtney bring their BTC program outline to. How the program evolves from the basic outline they have in place has to do with the members of the group and the outline itself which also is a changing thing based on experiences of the prior groups. No two groups will ever be the same because of the individuality of the participants and that is what makes them so special.
The bonds, friendships and experiences you have will be as lasting as you choose them to be as well as what you get out of the BTC experience. What you put into it is what you take away from it, with that being said just imagine coming together in one place for a moment in time with a group of people from different walks of life that all share a common vision. They all share their thoughts and experiences and try to turn that vision into a reality. Even if some of the members do not know what they can or want to do they all share the same common vision and the group along with the BTC program outline turns that vision into a goal with a workable plan of action.
Every member will leave with a different goal, plan and time frame. Every member will leave with a different experience however all will be connected in a way that only a group like this can bind them.
Do it, you will always cherish the memories, friendships and the way you will feel inside as a result and you might just turn that vision into a reality."
Lydia Berlad (BTC Taupo 2011)
I went on BTC the day after I finished my last exam. The timing was perfect as I had no idea what I wanted to do now that I had finished my degree and I did not know much about BTC. If I am honest I was too busy in the lead up to BTC and did not have very high expectations. BTC however surpassed my lack of expectations over and over again everyday. Each activity was very well thought out, facilitated and all around fantastic and thought provoking. Options and interests that I had for my future were validated and i received a fresh perspective on many questions I had, or opinions I held. The other participants were the best part as they made the vibe at BTC supportive and fun and I felt like it was a great place to be to learn and exchange ideas. By the end of it I still had no concrete idea of what I wanted to do but I had been given a few more avenues to think about and some like- minded people to contact. Overall I think that BTC has been the most enjoyable and beneficial week of my year so far!
Yvonne Biggins (BTC Tuscany 2011)
The 'Be The Change' programme , run by the GVN is perhaps one of the best kept secrets. I cannot advocate strongly enough about this course. If you are serious about creating social change on a small or large scale, then "Be the Change" will give you the inspiration and foundation; the roots and the wings, to realise your dream, and start to make a tangible difference in the world. The facilitators were extremely credible and all brought a diverse range of experience and skills to the course, which made the learning experience extremely valuable. The group were amazing, and I'm sure I've made some friends for life, and possibly even potential business partners.
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Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
Kenya. 
Vietnam. 
Peru. 
Nepal. 
