VSO is about people. Unlike many other charities, it does not send aid in the form of money, food, clothing or equipment. It sends people - skilled and experienced people from all walks of life who are willing to help communities in developing countries build their capabilities and resources.
VSO tackles the long-term needs of communities, helping them to build self-reliance. It focuses on the poorest countries in the world - those low on the UN's Human Development Index, which measures life expectancy, literacy and infant mortality. And it emphasises work which benefits the poorest and most disadvantaged people, especially women.
VSO does not try to impose its own solutions on developing countries. It responds to specific requests for skilled people to fill posts for which no local person can be found. Volunteers aim to pass on their skills so that when they leave their work will continue: sustainable development in its most concrete form.
VSO volunteers live and work in local communities for at least two years, often working in remote areas and with marginalised communities. Yet it is a partnership of equals - the volunteers frequently learn as much as they teach and most find that the experience enriches their lives. When they return, many volunteers play an important part in educating people about developing countries and challenging popular misconceptions.
Apply now for departures throughout 1997. For further details and an application form write to the address below, enclosing a brief summary of your qualifications and work experience:
Atha Murphy, Enquiries Unit, VSO, 317 Putney Bridge Road, London SW15 2PN. Tel: 0181 780 1331 (24 hours)
or view the website on: http://www.oneworld.org/vso/
