Israel Tour 2012

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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