VSO is the world’s leading independent, international development charity that works through volunteers to fight poverty in developing countries.

Kofi Annan, Former Secretary-General of the United Nations, says "VSO is a model part of what we have come to know as civil society."

 Spotlight on...

Climb Kilimanjaro and helpClimb Kilimanjaro and help fight global poverty
Help raise vital funds for VSO whilst exploring the world on an adventure of a lifetime. VSO needs to raise £10 million each year in the UK in order to contuinue its vital work : working through volunteers to fight poverty in some of the world's poorest communities.

There are many exciting destinations for your overseas adventure, from treks to bike rides there is something to suit everyone – Click here to sign up now or view the exciting destinations.

"This was one of the best things I have ever done, it gave me a unique opportunity to raise money and support a cause whilst undertaking something challenging and exciting. Highlights would include the whole trip! Particularly summitting, celebration and the great team spirit shown throughout."
- Paul Gurney, Kilimanjaro Challenge 2006

Sign up now


 Postcard from...

NamibiaNamibia
VSO volunteers have been sharing skills in stunning Namibia since 1965. In this month’s postcard, inspirational schoolgirl Loide Mpinge proclaims her right to a decent education while VSO volunteer Jill Hudson describes how she's working to make Loide's dream a reality. Finally, hear from occupational therapist Patricia Flynn who describes how she's using her skills to improve the lives of disabled people, but hasn't yet had a chance to read 'War and Peace'...

Loide's plea for a better education
Watch Jill Hudson's video story
Read Patricia Flynn's story

Population: 2 million | Capital city: Windhoek | GDP per capita: $7,586 | HDI ranking: 125 | Life expectancy: 53


 What's new...

VSO’s new CEO demands new UN women's agency
As her first public action in office, VSO’s first female Chief Executive Marg Mayne is spearheading the charity’s demand for the UN to establish a new women’s agency.

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VSO's Around the World Quiz - Thursday, 15 October 2009
The Around the World Quiz is an action-packed evening of corporate entertainment and charity fundraising, with fine food and wines. A great opportunity for client entertaining and networking, the event will also raise vital funds to support VSO’s work in 42 of the world’s poorest countries.

Cultural events page

 

Advocacy addressing dire shortage of health workers in Sierra Leone
VSO’s health programme in Sierra Leone, which has now diversified its activities to system-level support, advocacy and national volunteering, is still struggling against a background of poor resources and non-existent infrastructure. However, the programme is contributing towards real change with technical skills and advocacy.

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3 Peaks Challenge 2009
This is a challenge of a lifetime! It will require you to work as part of a team in order to climb the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales in 24 hours. Primarily a team building exercise this challenge commands both mental and physical fitness as teams of 5 people aim to climb 3,407 metres, walk 23 miles along with 2 support crew who will drive 400 miles.

VSO's Three Peaks Challenge page

 

VSO launches Green.tv channel
This week marked the official launch of VSO as a channel on www.green.tv, the world's leading online environmental TV channel. VSO is very excited to be able to partner with Green.tv to offer audiences worldwide a unique glimpse of the many projects that VSO undertakes. This partnership will enable us to get our messages out to more people than ever before.

Watch VSO films on our dedicated channel

 

Britain's Greatest Exports
2009 might have begun with our economy and manufacturing exports in decline but our international impact still holds strong. A new survey to find out who or what made Britain's Greatest Exports list shows there is still one export we can rely on - our people - who send exceptional British talent and skills overseas.

Read Britain's Greatest Exports list

 

VSO Change-a-Life Draw 2009
Every ticket bought or sold will help VSO make a difference to some of the poorest communities in the world!

Raffle page