By far my favorite non-profit because GVN supports communities to achieve THEIR own set goals. GVN connects people who want to lend a hand with people that need a hand and work to create sustainable methods of doing so. I was lucky to see all the behind the scenes work that GVN does and what a brilliant community of people they have behind them. We'll done !
Well how about having a new family for a week? This is what I got from my experience in BTC Costa Rica. All I had to do was find my passion in this life and be part of a family that can nourish and help me grow and expand my idea in the right direction and the right influence. Everyone in the program came in with the good intentions and want to be part of humanity in helping other human being in their own way and their own projects. We were exposed to inspiring people that actually were the change in their community. I loved this experience as it helped me dig further down inside myself and try to find my way in connecting with people and make them feel my passion about my cause in food waste management as a whole. The coordinators, Colin and Caitie, have dedicated their time for each and everyone of us to take us into the right direction and connecting us with the right people.
If I can do it again, I will! I recommend this to anyone who has the passion and the power inside to change something around them that they don't like.
I have decided to take a break from my advertising carreer after running a small agency in Brazil for almost 10 years. There was something inside me that told me to do that. I asked a friend that work in UN how to be a volunteer in Nepal and he recommened GVN Foundation. As I was researching about them I found the Be the Change program in Costa Rica. I've enrolled the program and had a very interesting and inspiring week among people from all over.
This mix of cultures and experiences is so rich and enlighting... I really recommend the program to the ones that want to get inspired and oriented by people with knowledge and good heart. And if you have already your idea in mind it is ever more useful. You can have a huge help and counseling in whatever your objective is. A real nice program lectured by real experienced and nice people
Earlier this spring, I felt as though I had hit a wall in my career. I was burnt out and being a classroom teacher wasn’t as fulfilling anymore. Whether it was the mid spring slump or the seven year slump, I knew I needed to make a change. I loved teaching too much to become unhappy and I was not ready to begin to neither despise it nor quit. Subsequently, I decided to take a leave of absence from teaching to explore my dreams and my passions.
Be The Change Costa Rica reminded me why I had loved teaching so much in the first place. It brought me back to my roots and challenged me every step of the way to uncover my passion: to effectively change educational policy where young leaders learn to become change makers in our society by providing them with historical knowledge and thus empowering the youth to become effective citizens of the world. BTC mentally and emotionally challenged us as individuals to think critically about ourselves, our projects and provided us with tools to help us take our dreams and make them realities.
In the past three months, I have worked extensively with the Global Volunteer Network and my life has been a whirlwind of change. My skills as a history teacher were sought out and I was invited to travel with the GVN team to Sydney, Australia and co-develop the leadership and entrepreneurial conference for 60 youth, ages 15-19. I personally developed and led workshops on white privilege and anti-racist training. Through BTC, I was also asked to help another participant help design an English teaching program in Dansai, Thailand. I traveled to Thailand where I actively recruited members of the community to participate in our program. I have never been so exhausted and fulfilled in my life. The idea of continuing down this path of work truly inspires me as an educator and as a citizen.
As I am only 18, going to BTC felt like a real leap of faith - I knew that I would be sharing my ideas and working with accomplished individuals from all over the world, with different cultural and professional backgrounds. Fortunately, my experience at BTC was all the better for this diversity, and my youth proved not to be a hindrance but a strength of mine. I had not recognized the value of acting as a springboard for a fresh perspective on the topics discussed by the BTC participants - all of whom were really respectful and constructive in their feedback. For me, my personal 'project' was, well, myself! (As I did not have a set direction in mind). BTC not only exposed me to a plethora of new interests and relationships - the supportive and dynamic environment gave me a sense of confidence in myself and my ability to achieve my goals. I feel that BTC really streamlined my direction in terms of self-development. I'd recommend Be The Change to anyone looking for a new experience and guidance in regard to how you can create positive social change in your life.
On their website GVN claims that the overwhelming number of negative reviews they get come from those who never participated in their programs or were done by competing volunteer organizations. Well, I am a regular person, a registered nurse, who has travelled and participated in other volunteer projects in the developing countries.
I volunteered in a medical program offered by GVN and managed by Maximo Nivel in Cusco, Peru in August 2015. And by far, it was the worst volunteer experience I've ever had, it lacked structure, involvement and supervision by GVN. The concerns reported by me and other volunteers were not addressed, GVN and Maximo Nivel took little to no responsibility for their failure to deliver what they signed people up for. The total cost of the program was $765 for a week. There are much cheaper volunteer programs out there... hell, there are free ones out there!
During the orientation, they offered free t-shirts in exchange for positive reviews and "likes" on Facebook. If your level of integrity was what you say it is, you would not have to ask for praise, your Goodness would be undeniable.
I wish I had known better, but I guess it was a learning experience. So my suggestion is read, do research before you sign up with anyone. Make an informed decision. And good luck impacting lives
Because Bill Gates had some years ago made a positive reference to GVN, I felt it must be a legitimate organization and applied to volunteer. I volunteered in Kenya for 2 weeks in August 2014 with an HIV support organization called Living Positive Mlolongo which was supposed to be sponsored by GVN. None of my program fee went toward supporting the work of this organization; a "middleman" organization in Nairobi had provided LPM with about $ 50 worth of food in early 2013, and they planned another equal distribution before the end of the year. All of the needs other interns and I encountered ($$ for medicines and food for HIV+ women, dressings, a leg brace, clinic transportation, schoolbooks for the school GVN operated in a nearby slum, an xray) were covered by us four volunteers. When we contacted program staff about this we were reissued a few densely obscure pages of policy in which it was stated that our program fees were applied to a fund to benefit certain organizations for orphans and other Kenyans in need, but NOT NECESSARILY the organizations we would be serving during our volunteer time. We poured a tremendous amount of our own money into supporting projects and clients associated with Living Positive Mlolongo and where our fees actually went I have no idea. What a scam!
Colin Salisbury 01/07/2015
>> From GVN Foundation: Please note that this review relates to GVN (a separate entity) and is not about the GVN Foundation, and our funds distribution. We are happy to provide information on the distinction between these two entities, and the figures, annual reports and independent audits on the financials of GVN and GVN Foundation. We can understand the confusion as GVN Foundation was born out of a need identified by Global Volunteer Network’s volunteers for funding channels to continue supporting their volunteer project after returning home. GVN Foundation has a contestable ‘Greatest Needs’ fund for partner projects available through their funds distribution process. For specific funding needs identified, Global Volunteer Network recommends that volunteers talk with the in-country staff about their suggestions and possibilities for applying to the GVN Foundation for funds raised through one of their campaigns like Eat So They Can. >> From Global Volunteer Network: At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organizations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we work in support of their decisions. At the request of our partner, the donation portion of the program fee goes into a fund held by them to be distributed in line with their funding commitments and priorities. This information is included in Global Volunteer Network’s primary resource sent out our volunteers under a breakdown of the costs involved and states: “To create meaningful impact, donations are accumulated in what is called the Kenya Fund. The Fund is administered by our partner and provides support to the local organizations which they work with. Current initiatives include paying schools fees and buying school supplies; funding feeding programs; and construction needs at various projects. If you have a specific idea at your placement, please speak with partner staff about the possibilities for funding.” It would create great challenges for Global Volunteer Network’s partner and the students they are sponsoring to withdraw from this commitment. Increases in volunteer numbers would grow the fund and give further opportunity for granting to more of the 21 schools, orphanage, clinics and other community projects volunteers are placed with.
Recently widowed, I was looking for direction for a non-profit my late husband had founded to promote technical education in Latin America. Happening upon the Global Volunteer Network website, I felt intuitively the GVN Be the Change Program would be a good place to begin anew after the loss of the energy, technical expertise, and love for humanity I had spent the past 45 years supporting. The week in New Zealand with the GVN staff was truly a vision-changing experience for me.
I made certain commitments in the Be the Change program, and it was impossible for me to return to my home in the western United States without a plan of action to implement some of the BTC strategies I was exposed to in New Zealand. Through the website, I learned about the Distribution Trip scheduled for June 2014 in Uganda and signed on to further learn how GVN gets the funds they raise to the actual programs on the ground. It was important to me that the organization itself was not a "Fat Cat", with personnel enjoying the good life while a few dollars trickle to token projects for real people who suffer.
Seeing first hand how GVN-supported projects such as Eat So They Can are at work in Uganda, I can vouch for the integrity and work ethic of the folks at GVN. They are personally invested in their projects and provide hands-on support. They are NOT living high on donated money and giving what's left over to token projects. These people are living and breathing with the people in Africa, Asia and South America who are genuinely able to better themselves through GVN projects. I love these people!
JoAnne Summers
Ammon, ID USA
I was lucky enough to go on the GVN Distribution Trip to Uganda in June this year. To say that the trip was an experience of a lifetime is an understatement. To see first-hand how GVN Support and fund projects in Uganda is amazing, it’s all about starting at the Grassroots of a project and ensuring that the community have the skills and knowledge to help the projects thrive and be self-sufficient. GVN have made a huge difference to so many communities in Uganda and throughout the world.
Travelling to Uganda with the GVN Foundation was an experience of a lifetime.
My role on the trip was to photograph the projects and people that the foundation supports for a 2015 Charity Calendar.
I was very glad to see that rather than hand outs, GVN's focus is on projects that empower the communities to be self sufficient. This is achieved though education and careful consideration of new partnerships.
It was a pleasure to be photographing the projects in action and I hope that I was able to capture the sprit that the GVN Foundation is fostering.
Working for GVN changed my life! I was an International Intern for Eat So They Can for two years and I believe anyone who is interested in social justice, international development or getting involved in making the world a better place should definitely be part of this fantastic NGO. I have gained invaluable experience, fantastic skills, great network and contributed to global communities - the best part of GVN is anyone can do this, all you need is passion and dedication and the will to make a positive change. This opportunity will open up many doors - I have been very fortunate to be the grand winner of one of ESTC distribution trips, I will be traveling to Uganda in June. I can guarantee you with commitment, GVN will be a life transforming journey! Get onboard, everyone! :)
Working with GVN through their Eat So They Can (ESTC) Foundation as a volunteer intern was a blessing. The experience on a whole gave informed me on the various programs within the organisation while also addressing the main issues surrounding them. The support and information I received about conducting my own fundraiser was also invaluable. I can't wait to continue my support and watch this growing foundation!
GVN foundation is my favorite non profit organization. Initially I heard it from my university adviser, they focus on helping the two most love-needed group- women and children, so I started the international volunteer experience with GVN. No matter the training guidance or hands on help from the current stuffs were very good. They are very very nice, I really enjoy working with a group of people who have the same goal with me and got along with each other pretty well. During the fund raising party I made in my university in the U.S. and my hometown China, they mailed many important materials to me and kept contacting me for knowing more details events then gave me relative advice. The most exciting time was when I mailed them the photos of my events and my suggestions about the future fundraising plan. After finishing the volunteer program, they still contacted with me and helped in many things like my graduate school application, they gave me lots of advice and also recommendations. I really appreciate. If I want to do next volunteer program or visiting any non-profit organization, I will also choose them without any hesitations. :)
I had always wanted to make a difference in people. I believe God created me for this purpose, that is serving the right cause for humanity especially for the challenged ones in the world. GVN gave me the opportunity to live that purpose and reach out as a mouthpiece for men, women and children in developing world. Volunteering as an international intern with the GVN's Eat So They Can opened my horizon in another perception; and as a lover of exploring different food from different parts of the world, it was so candid to get people involve for a good cause as simple as sharing a meal, having a cooking competition or a tea party....Hey, there's always someone who will eat. In Nigeria where I volunteered and as my home country, it is generally believe that 'the way to the heart of man is through his stomach'.....So why not eat so that others can equally feed. GVN gave me something so real, yet so simple.
I have been a volunteer, donor, and international intern with the GVN Foundation and Eat So They Can! I love the work they do in many countries to help communities with SUSTAINABLE solutions. That old saying "give a man a fish and he will eat for a day, but teach a man to fish and he will eat for life" is always in the back of my mind when I am doing work with them. Their approach to solving world hunger is in my opinion the best way.
As a volunteer in Ecuador I saw up close how they are helping the reforestation of the cloud forest, the removal of invasive species and creating sustainable food solutions at the various projects for schools and communities. They were also supporting me throughout my entire stay in Ecuador, checking in to make sure I was satisfied with the experience.
My association with GVN Foundation was primarily based upon the great results they have generated over the years, their reputation and recently blossomed association with the United Nations really showed me that this foundation can make a difference in the world we live in today. I worked for them as an International Intern working from Auckland, New Zealand helping to fund raise for the Eat So They Can campaign. GVN throughout my internship provided support and constantly helped to ensure I stayed on track so that their goals of supporting communities across the world was achieved. I've not been involved within another non-profit organization which provided such a great support and goal orientated network like the GVN Foundation. You have the opportunity to have face-to-face conversations with those making the "clutch" decisions and your opinions, view and ideas are taken on board. Working with the GVN Foundation provided me with a great outlook and tool to help the global community, something I was previously not possible to do. Thanks GVN!
Having been a donor and attended an Eat So They Can ball, I am extremely impressed with GVN, and the dedication the team has to achieving their own set goals. While there are a lot of NFP out there, I feel like I know where my money is going. Instead of being an organisation that brings awareness through "sympathy" imagery, it celebrates what it can achieve through sociable and interesting events. Ace work guys.
I am not surprised that there are so few bad reviews of GVN. The administrators are practiced at discouraging any feedback that does not include the words, 'amazing', 'fantastic' 'life changing'. Although I must admit GVN have changed the last three months of my life (since I returned to a placement with them in Nepal). I've spent hours writing to them and receiving condescending replies and utter inaction in terms of dealing with the concerns I expressed -- elements of neglect of basic care for the children in a children's home. I still don't know what happens to the volunteer program fee. I found out the very small percentage that goes to care and feeding of volunteers and I found that none goes to the kids in the home! I expect after I post this to receive a response from one of the teflon coated staff -- who will it be Colin? or Erin?
Colin Salisbury 03/11/2014
We are saddened to read this review, particularly given the time we have invested in looking into the serious allegation of neglect. After our investigation, we find these allegations to be unfounded, taking into account independent medical reports from health professionals with experience working in Nepal and who work directly with the children in question. We have also reviewed the regular audits on the standards of the children's home conducted by Nepali authorities, and reports obtained from the World Bank and other independent research institutions on child nutrition in the developing world. Please also note that this review relates to GVN (a separate entity) and is not about the GVN Foundation, and our funds distribution. We are happy to provide information on the distinction between these two entities, and the figures, annual reports and independent audits on the financials of GVN and GVN Foundation. GVN is always open to receiving feedback (both the good and the bad), and we continually seek ways to improve our services to our volunteers, partner organizations, and the communities we work with. Yes, there are times when we’ve got it wrong, when we could have done things better - we are quick to own up to that. Unfortunately organizations such as GVN can always ‘be held to ransom’ in public domains when our research, findings/investigations, and at times opinions differ to that of a complainant. In the words of Sir Winston Churchill, “some people’s idea of free speech is that they are free to say what they like but if anyone says anything back, that is an outrage.”
I'm currently working as an intern for the GVN Foundation and I have found the experience to be incredibly rewarding and I've loved every moment of it. There is a very supportive work environment, I've had so many learning opportunities and they've given me the kick-start to my career I needed. Everyone here is so passionate about what they do and we all love to have a bit of fun aswell! It's so awesome to be a part of something that is so incredibly positive.
Having the opportunity to volunteer and help contribute to the work the GVN Foundation is doing has been a remarkable experience. The team in the office are incredible friendly but also excellent at their roles which has been an amazing help. The work that GVN Foundation does globally in empowering communities is amazing and incredibly worthwhile, I would have no qualms volunteering again and helping out where I could.
I am currently interning at GVN helping to coordinate their 2013 New Zealand Live Below the Line campaign. The experience has been so much fun and the staff have been extremely supportive. When I walk into the office I am greeted by the smiling faces and positive attitudes of a team of people passionate about what they do.
By far my favorite non-profit because GVN supports communities to achieve THEIR own set goals. GVN connects people who want to lend a hand with people that need a hand and work to create sustainable methods of doing so. I was lucky to see all the behind the scenes work that GVN does and what a brilliant community of people they have behind them. We'll done !
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Right from day one I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience working with the GVN team. I can remember the intern induction on day one and being impressed beyond words with the genuine commitment of the staff toward GVN's work. Every aspect of the GVN Foundation is focused on supporting the initiatives of grassroots organisations rather than intervention or aid-focused development. I have felt that this is a critical way in which GVN acts as an advocate for the individual voices of people and the different causes they support.
I cannot believe I am now nearing the end of my 10 week internship with GVN Foundation focusing on coordination and advocacy of the Live Below The Line USA campaign. Time flies! I will be back to work alongside GVN without a doubt - their professionalism, commitment and passion is too contagious not to! Keep up the great work!
GVNF has been WONDERFUL every time when I take part in their annual fundraiser Eat So They Can. Highly organised, excellent staff with detailed, consistent help all along the way. I feel very privileged to be a part of the great work they do, and trust they will go a long, long way.
GVN is a well organised company...... I decided to do the fundraising trip to Nepal where you raise money then trek to Base camp Mt Everest.
It was a trip of a life time for me .... loved ! Every moment ! Elisa and Fiona where such lovely people .... you felt welcome from the beginning! And the company they used for our trek called Himalayan quests are amazing well organised company... from guides who are such friendly people .... to where we stay everything ran smoothly! We even had a flight problem and we were still one of the frist groups to take a plane back to Katmandu!
I highly recommend GVN and will go through them for many more volunteering adventures
GVN has always far exceeded my expectations. I was apart of a cycling trek in Vietnam, back in 2010, and took part in the Everest base camp trek in 2012. Because of the most unforgettable experiences I had during these adventures, GVN will always be my number one go-to organisation (by a long shot). GVN has not only given me memories that I will never forget, they have also given me life long friendships not only with my fellow trekkers, but with the GVN representatives themselves who were there with us every step of the way. I will continue to go on adventures organised by this incredible organisation and would rally whole-heartedly for them if anyone is ever in doubt in choosing an organisation that is right for them.
- NJ
In 2012 I had the wonderful opportunity to be involved in some of GVN's programs. I was a volunteer in the Nepali village of Bistachhap, and was able to experience two different placements during my time there (Children's Homes and Teaching English). After my volunteer placement I also participated in the fundraising trek to Everest Base Camp. During the time leading up to my placement, GVN was extremely helpful. Being only 18 at the time, the prospect of travelling to another country by myself was very daunting. They (particularly Fiona) made me feel totally assured and I never had any doubts about my safety. Once in Nepal, all my programs were everything I hoped for and more. The transition between GVN and their partner organisation in Nepal (VSN) was flawless. The programs were great and the kids in both were wonderful. The teaching was a bit challenging at first but extremely rewarding. The Everest Trek was amazing, meeting Eliza and Fiona from GVN was great (they were just as lovely as I expected). Climbing to Everest Base Camp is something I'll treasure for the rest of my life and I can't imagine better people to have done it with. I will be doing more programs with GVN in the future and highly recommend it for anyone who wants to step outside their comfort zone and try something new.
I cannot speak highly enough of GVN and their amazing staff. Having recently volunteered as part of the Everest Base Camp Trek I was constantly impressed with their professionalism, organisation and above all else, their passion for the work they do. I feel as though 5 out of 5 stars is still short changing them.
I am currently volunteering with GVN Foundation as an intern co-ordinating their Live Below the Line USA campaign. I love being a part of this organisation and the hard work they put into making a difference in a positive and empowering way. GVN Foundation is definitely the best organisation I have worked with and I plan to continue doing so!
I volunteered with GVN in a fundraising trek to Everest Base Camp. The journey itself was perfectly planned and excecuted. The local guides selected by GVN Foundation were amazing and brought all 20 volunteers up that hill and safely back down. The project in Nepal that was supported through the fundraising is an amazing project with unbelivably lovely kids. We supported the Brighter Future Children Home in Nepal and were welcomed so warmly and nicely by the kids. Our efforts (despite the fact that is was fun fundraising and not really that much of an effort) were so highly appreciated by officials as well as the kids... we spent so much valuable time together, the kids showing us around and giving incredible performances, e.g. singing, telling poems, dancing, theatre, etc. Realizing that through GVN Foundation our efforts were consolidated towards this one project we were deeply touched receiving the information that we managed to finance the orphanage for two full calendar years... This really made a difference and we were sure that the funds of our donors actually reached a destination where needed. GVN Foundation staff who accompanied the trek were great motivation and help in pushing ourselves. They brought together a bunch of 20 people who are still in touch and are planning a reunion... actually 20 people who felt as being part of GVN Foundation... one TEAM EVEREST!!! It was an honour trekking and fundraising with you and I am looking forward to the next time...
My wife and I volunteered in Nepal, Vietnan and Phillipines with GVN. Everything was beyond our expectations, the organization, the child's home, the people and we definitely learned a lot. It was a great experience and we recommend to everyone.
Hello,
In 2010, when I initially learned about the great work done buy Eat So They Can - part of GVN - I was naturally skeptical. So, I went to their office and asked lots of difficult questions about funding, the "business" model, team, projects, etc.
Because of their transparent funding model that supports the communities that receive the funds, the sustainable nature of both the organisation, and the work they do - I was happy to get involved.
Over the last few years I've had the pleasure of working with the team at Eat So They Can and I've been confident sharing, and promoting, Eat So They Can with my friends, family and business clients.
-Tuesday Night Mike
I work for a Rwandan based local NGO (FVA) and a period of slightly more than one year i have known about GVNF i can testify to the world that it is an International organization which has made a great record in transforming lives of the orphans and other vulnerable children in Rwanda. GVNF has impacted them in terms of teaching, donating basic needs to the poorest families and children. Volunteering in health centers for better services delivery in health sector. GVNF surely deserves this recognition and more others to come as a role model international organization.
Global Volunteer Network Foundation has truly been an incredible partner and has helped us transform so many lives and create lasting change for the children in Peru. The people behind the scenes at GVNF are truly passionate about and devoted to making the world a better place by helping enrich peoples' lives all around the world. GVNF should be regarded as a role model and an example organization for other organizations to follow. As the director of a US based NGO, GVNF has helped in ways that we never would have expected. GVNF has helped not only fund some of our most important projects and programs, but has also inspired and reached out to other people and organizations to get them involved as well. This incredible organization continues to set the bar for all organizations involved in making positive change around social justice. GVNF truly cares about their relationship with their partners as well as the overall impact on the people that their partners help and support.
I was so moved by the work we did with the GVN Distribution Team in Peru this past Fall that I made a conscious decision to return to help women artisans hone their crafts. Enabling the women will help to feed their children and create sustainable incomes for themselves and their communities.
The volunteer trips I have made with GVN, specially with the Eat So They Can program, have been encouraging, inspiring, eye opening and the most fun time, all with good and bright people. It is amazing to see the progress of the programs, the amount of love that there is between the organizers, the people and the volunteers. All done with clear objectives in mind for a real sustainable progress. The ESTC program and volunteer trip in Peru was even more special to me because it meat finding an honest outlet for me to help my own home country.
I believe that GVN Foundation is doing amazing work in countries around the world. Whether you would like to assist Nepal, Kenya or Peru GVN Foundation's team has created meaningful ways for people to contribute to communities in need across the globe. Their global dinner party (Eat So They Can) is the perfect way to get involved. Additionally GVN Foundation is led by the brilliant and compassionate Eliza Raymond- someone I have complete faith and confidence in.
It is amazing when you can be part of a experience that not only benefit a community and people in need but teaches you why it is important to care and why everybody should help causes like this. Global Volunteer Network is an excellent organization to help others and learn great things. I feel proud and lucky I had the opportunity to be part of their crew in one of their distribution trips. The kids, women, and people that benefit from GVN's programs will be the change and the future of a better community and a more just world.
The Global Volunteer Network Foundation has been supporting our projects since its inception in 2005, most significantly, the year on year running costs for our Brighter Future Children's Home (BFCH), a happy and loving home to 14 deprived, orphaned or destitute Nepali children. The help and support they give us (not just financial) is outstanding and their staff are always willing to do that little bit extra to make a fundraising campaign (ours or theirs on our behalf) a success. Not only do they fundraise directly to support our projects, but they also act as a 'donation station' for friends of VSN, thus reducing international transfer costs and enabling small donors to make viable donations. We are currently working together on their Everest Base Camp Fundraising Trek which is happening in September, of which the funds will go to cover future year's running costs of our BFCH home. Alongside this their Eat So They Can campaign is focusing on running costs for both BFCH and our second children's home Shining Stars Children's Home (26 children) and they have also nominated us as their Project of the Month for August, in order to help us raise money for the further education of our children. The relationship VSN has with the GVN Foundation is far more than 'client served', they are very definitely part of our family and they are the reason our BFCH children are able to grow up in a safe and loving environment, attend school, eat healthy, nutritious meals and most importantly, enjoy their childhood.
Volunteering with GVN in Nepal was an experience that i'll never forget. It was a chance to challenge myself and do something i'd wanted to do for many years. Living in the slums of Kathmandu with a family was certainly an eye opener! I worked in an orphanage looking after 8 boys in a house that in most other countries would be classed as unfit for human habitation...water running down the walls, bare concrete walls and floors and a small hole in the ground for a toilet. But the boys i met smiled everyday, greeted me every morning full of laughter and happy with their lot! This was infectious and soon i laughed and smiled as much as they did. So thank you GVN for making the placement possible and to their partner company VSN for running the program in Nepal. We were looked after , enjoyed a week of cultural immersion and managed through the whole placement. I am still in contact with the boys i looked after and have returned twice since i was first there to say hi and see how they were all doing...testanment to the successful plavcement made possible by GVN. I cant recommend them highly enough.
I joined the Distrtibution Trip to Peru with GVN last June and it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. Great organization, great team and amazing projects... I fell in love with Peruvian kids and I'm more than willing to repeat the experience in the future. Thanks GVN for giving me the opportunity to help people in need and to make a difference in their lives. Monica Malori
Interning at GVN Foundation is definitely the greatest experience I've had so far in a non profit environment. Interning at GVN Foundation increased my passion that is to fight poverty issues. Working with other passionate people such as Kelly another intern here and the executive director, Eliza have really inspired and motivated me to keep doing this amazing work. working with inspiring people such as Kelly and Eliza really keeps me going and I've always loved going to the office every Monday and Thursday. I am having an awesome time here and I recommend GVN Foundation to all those who want to make a difference in the world.
Global Volunteer Network Foundation is the fundraising branch for the Global Volunteer Network Charitable Trust. The organization raises money for GVN's various global partners. I was drawn to GVN Foundation both because of their creative fundraising efforts and because of the ways in which they distribute the funds. When discussing the annual distribution of funds to support specific partner organizations with the foundation's Executive Director, Eliza, she explained that the foundation believed in affecting a few programs deeply as opposed to several programs superficially. I saw this firsthand as a volunteer for GVN Foundation's Peru Distribution Trip in 2011. Together with other volunteers, we traveled to Peru to support the distribution of funds raised the previous year. One project we supported was a community center for women and children. The women in the community center were honing their jewelry making skills but lacked the skills necessary to make marketable products. They also lacked business expertise. As such, GVN Foundation provided additional jewelry making tools and materials. They also funded jewelry classes, marketing classes, and classes on how to save and invest money. In this way, the women from the community center will be better equipped to earn sustainable income for their families. GVN Foundation was able to provide for the community center's specific needs thanks to its strong partnership with the Peruvian organization. The Foundation is committed to forming lasting relationship with local organizations that are dedicated to initiating social change in their communities. In general, I have been incredibly impressed with GVN Foundation's organization and professionalism. It truly has been an honor to work with them and I hope to work with them again in the future.
I've been following the work of GVN for a few years, and have been impressed with what they're doing - so much so, that I'm now part of the volunteer team for the ESTC project. The support from the team and the connections being made with others volunteering is tremendous - not only are people who GVN work with benefiting, but the many people assisting GVN are also gaining new skills, experiences and bonds - GVN is truly Global in all senses. They work globally, they connect globally and globally they're helping people join them to gain and in turn help others. a real win - win - win.
The 2012 distribution trip to Peru was an amazing experience that allowed me to bond with other members of the group while visiting orphanages, schools and community centers. The opportunity to meet and speak with community leaders helped broaden my understanding of the socioeconomic challenges that the people of Cusco and Urubamba. I will be joining GVN on many future distribution trips as it has changed my approach to living.
I have been supporting the GVN Foundation for a number of years now. My family and I take part in their annual Eat So They Can fundraiser, and we have made a number of one-off donations to causes that are close to our heart. I appreciate the time taken to provide updates on the projects we support, and like that we can be part of something bigger which really does make a difference to a child in need. Over the years I've been associated with the GVN Foundation and GVN I have been impressed with the organizations and their staff, who have answered a range of questions I've had on occasion regarding my donations. I look forward to continuing to support them and their projects. Keep up the great work!
GVN foundation is a small but most efficient organisation. I always feel confident that most of the money I give or raise goes straight to the great projects I want to help. They are always thinking of new imaginative ways to help raise money for their project: the Eat So They Can initiative has now developed into a well established yearly global event not only raising funds but also awareness of the causes the host has chosen to support. The gifts of change are a great idea for potential donors who want to know exactly what they are giving to: from chickens to medical supplies to bricks... Allowing small donations to "make a difference". Another aspect I really like about GVN is that they always focus on the positive side. The distribution trip is a great way of following the effect of donations on the ground. This can be followed on the eatsotheycan website. The team of people working there are all motivated and inspiring.
GVN supports a corrupt organization in Vietnam whose director pockets thousands of dollars in donations meant for orphanages in Tam Ky and Da Nang. GVN has known of this for nearly two years but refuses to disassociate itself.
Colin Salisbury 07/29/2012
GVN Foundation, the fundraising branch of GVN, formally ended our partnership with Volunteer Vietnam in November 2011. Following a robust review and capacity-building process, the GVN Foundation Board determined that Volunteer Vietnam was not able to meet our reporting requirements. We were aware that the ending of our partnership would impact the children at Volunteer Vietnam's projects so we implemented a new system of grants distribution. This involves a yearly distribution by one of our staff members. The first distribution has just taken place by GVN's CEO in conjunction with the requests of the orphanage managers. A full report of the distribution of these funds is currently being compiled and will be available soon. GVN Foundation's annual reports can be downloaded online here: http://gvnfoundation.org/learn/reports/ GVN itself is a legally separate organization to the GVN Foundation. GVN is a Charitable Trust in New Zealand and organizes volunteer placements. GVN recognizes that they have a moral responsibility towards the children at the projects supported by Volunteer Vietnam. They therefore implemented a 12-month review process with high hopes that the required changes would be implemented immediately by Volunteer Vietnam. GVN's CEO has just spent the past three weeks in Vietnam conducting the final review. GVN's Board will be meeting this week to make a decision based on the findings of this review.
I have attended Eat So They Can events organized by the GVN Foundation for the past three years. All the events have been fun and informative. I also think it's great that donors are kept informed on how funds are used through the Eat So They Can facebook page and blog. There is great follow-up and transparency on how funds are used.
I am a medical doctor who has been on one 'tour' with GVN in 2007 to Vietnam and returned to work with their 'partner' in 2011. I do feel that their overhead is too high and that not enough of the funds make it to the children. This is in part due to their lack of oversight over their partner, not implementing systems that require a high level of transparency and accountability for all funds given. In this age of cloud-based technologies it would do them well to invest in on-line reporting and accounting systems so as to reduce administrative overhead leading to less administrative manpower being paid for out of the volunteer's 'fees' thus leaving more monies for the children and forcing partners to account for use of funds. ALSO ... reviews should NOT be written by those who volunteer to raise money for GVN or work with GVN's administrative side, nor by their partners who 'profit' by their funding, but by those who are actually in the field working with the children!! That is what this is all supposed to be about!!
Colin Salisbury 07/29/2012
Thank you for your comment. Please note that this website is about reviewing the GVN Foundation, which is the fundraising branch of GVN. The goal of this website to provide a complete view of our work and each reviewer is asked to select whether s/he is a volunteer, client served, expert, member of the public, board member, donor, or advisor. Please also note that the GVN Foundation does use online reporting and accounting systems. We also conduct partner visits to ensure a high level of transparency and accountability of funds. The GVN Foundation grants out 90% of funds raised to partner organizations for all international fundraisers, sponsorship donations and general donations. With our Eat So They Can campaign, we grant out 70% of funds raised to partner organizations with the remaining 30% being used for advocacy, education, grants evaluation and administration as outlined on our website: http://www.eatsotheycan.org/discover-what-we-do/funds-distribution/ Our annual reports can be downloaded online here: http://gvnfoundation.org/learn/reports/
I like how GVN not only caters the need of one type of adversity we have globally but its mission is to help all-round. I attended one of GVNs eat so they can eat dinner fund raiser functions couple of years ago & was touched. What GVN has done to bring smile the innocent & helpless around the world is priceless.
I wish more & more volunteers/donors join this cause & help make the world a better place that we can truly be proud of.
I have four years experience working as a volunteer in developing countries across the world. I understand the needs of children in orphanages as I have witnessed these and learned from many wonderful children. When I first volunteered with GVN organisation, the volunteer organisation connected to GVN Foundation, I raised many thousands of dollars, given by good people, for the children and in good faith. I left these funds in the hands of the GVN Foundation and through them the local organisation who ought to distribute these funds to the children who are very desperately in need of basic care. To my knowledge, this money never reached the children. I am by no means the only donor who has sent money and found that it did not reach the children. In the last two years, enough volunteers have been concerned about the way funds were being spent, or rather not spent, that the issue was raised with GVN Foundation, in detail. The Foundation were sent repeated evidence that the local partner to whom funds are sent were not reaching the children. Evidence of false accounting was extensive. Volunteers on the ground reported serious discrepancies in money known to have been sent by donor that never reached the orphanages. The specifics were sent to GVN Foundation. Despite this, GVN as an organisation continues to work with the local partner and the children continue to struggle. GVN Foundation chose, after pressure from volunteers, to stop sending Foundation funds to the partner, but continue working with the individual in a volunteer programme. Many volunteers, when they realise they have been massively overcharged and drawn into working with an organisation with serious allegations of corruption, have been extremely upset and disappointed. GVN Foundation told concerned volunteers that a representative would be sent, spending money that should go to the children on what would be essentially a feel good trip by an individual with little or no knowledge of the children or their immediate and long term needs on the ground, to distribute funds. As yet, this has not happened. The children then suffer. Many volunteers are now gravely concerned for the future of the children. It is possible that GVN Foundation, faced with the reports of corruption by the local partner, will decide to close the project in question down. Doing so would take from the children, already abandoned and suffering, a comfort and support many have known for their whole lives. This is simply not acceptable. An orphaned child is not a commodity and any foundation or organisation which becomes involved long term with vulnerable children has an obligation not to abandon them. I am extremely concerned about the children, the damage that would be done to them should GVN Foundation not take their responsibilities and commitment to these children as seriously as it should, the further abandonment in their lives that may befall them and the repeated instances of funds not reaching the children. From a humanitarian standpoint, such treatment of these children is a disgrace. This Foundation needs firstly to take positive action, not stand back and watch as the children suffer unnecessarily. Secondly, those running this foundation must consider very seriously the commitment made to the children, the morally questionable profits generated for GVN itself and the local partner, through the children. Finally and most importantly GVN Foundation must recognise that a commitment has been made to these children, already abandoned, relinquished, orphaned and pained in their short lives. This commitment must be fulfilled and the children must not be abandoned. Funds intended for the children do not reach them, either in their entirety or at all. Until this is addressed seriously, GVN Foundation does not qualify for a name as a humanitarian or nonprofit organisation, let alone a great one. I remain, as always, very concerned for the children.
Colin Salisbury 07/29/2012
I have responded to the points you have raised below. PROFIT - GVN is a registered Charitable Trust in New Zealand. GVN Foundation, the fundraising branch of GVN, is a registered non-profit organization in the United States. Neither organization therefore generates a profit and we both exist with the goal to improve the lives of children. MODEL OF OPERATION - Both GVN and GVN Foundation work with partner organizations. We do this because we believe in local solutions to local problems. We have a thorough selection process for our partner organizations and we require all partners to complete online proposals and reports. We also conduct project visits to evaluate our partner organizations. Where concerns arise, we have a robust review and capacity-building process which aims to assist our partner organizations in reaching our required standards. When a hard decision needs to be made by GVN or GVN Foundation's Board of Directors, this decision is only taken after due process. VIETNAM - The comment above refers to our partner organization in Vietnam. Unfortunately we did experience reporting issues with this partner. We did not however simply withdraw from this partnership but took a number of steps to try to improve accountability first, including sending a GVN representative to work full-time in Vietnam with our partner organization. When our reporting requirements continued not to be met, the GVN Foundation Board made the decision to stop sending grants to Vietnam. We were aware that this would impact the children at our projects so we implemented a new system of grants distribution. This involves a yearly distribution by one of our staff members. The first distribution has just taken place by GVN's CEO in conjunction with the requests of the orphanage managers. A full report of the distribution of these funds is currently being compiled and will be available soon. ANNUAL REPORTS - GVN Foundation's annual reports can be found online here: http://gvnfoundation.org/learn/reports/
GVN is a wonderful organization that focuses on productive project throughout the world. It's also led by incredibly passionate and dedicated people who are committed to social change on an global level. I first encountered GVN when I was teaching English in Cusco, Peru, and decided to volunteer as a teacher through one of their programs. Having had such a good experience, I continued to fundraise for GVN's "Eat So They Can" campaign every year. One year ago, I attended the ESTC distribution trip in Cusco, and seeing all the projects firsthand was inspiring and assured me that great work is being done by this organization.
The passion of the people behind the Global Volunteer Network Foundation is palpable. I went to Peru with Eliza Raymond from GVN Foundation and my experience with her and our whole volunteer group was so positive that is really set the bar high for any similar trip I'll take in the future. Not only was it logistically executed beautifully, but Eliza's relationships with the locals and the projects in Cusco and Pampallacta made all the difference in the depth of experience she was able to offer us as volunteers. The result was a weeklong trip that significantly changed how I view the world (honestly, this is not hyperbole!), and certainly how I think of Peru and the issues many Peruvians face--from malnutrition to pronounced gender inequality. Most importantly, I felt that I left Peru not only having learned a great deal, but feeling like I made a difference.
I was priviledged to be asked to join the GVNF Board of Directors a year ago and have enjoyed my experience supporting the organization. I have witnessed many positive changes in the past year and the social impact continues to grow. I'm excited about the future and some of the new programs and projects that have been implemented. We are committed to ensuring that the donations are applied in order to create sustainability for the projects selected. The grants/partnerships are evaluated and adjusted as needed to ensure the Vision of GVNF is carried through. It is a great feeling to know that I am a participant in impacting the lives of others in a positive way.
I decided to donate to the Global Volunteer Network Foundation because they make an effort to provide funding for a wide variety of causes. I like that GVN not only supports orphans but also education for children, health supplies, food, and basic necessities. This makes for a good approach to better the lives of people in many different ways all over the world. I have had no problems with GVN in terms of the donation process. They run smoothly and are always helpful and prompt in their responses. I will continue to donate because I really believe in their cause.
I research over 50volunteer organizations to find GVN the best at meeting the needs of a challanging world with a very positive, honest approach. The project fundraising treks have been very inspirational and to see the direct benefit to those in need was heart warming. They have developed a way of making sure you are safe, understand effort and looked out for all involved over and beyond any other organization. For these reasons I have continued to do treks, Everest Sept 2012, and work with them on other volunteer efforts. The are the best!
I was privileged to be an intern at GVN Foundation as part of my Masters in Development Studies course. It was amazing to work with such positive, focused and fun individuals who totally believed in their work and the possibility that they can effect change in the world.
Hello I'm currently an International Intern for GVN Foundation with their campaign Eat So They Can. Originally I wanted to travel with them in their volunteer programs but as I wasn't able to skip classes and leave my country Brazil wasn't feasible at this time. Fortunately, GVN gives us a number of opportunities to interact and participate in their projects. So I got to enter their new International Intern team that was greatly formed with a group of proactive, energetic and enthusiastic people from all over the world! We're still in progress since it has been a couple of months of working together and distance is in fact an issue. However, they are able to promote webseminars covering time zones with a difference of 15 hours, as well as send our International Intern packs even to Brazil. For me especially it has been amazing since I'm - and they are also - dealing with another language and culture. And to manage to promote a universal campaign against poverty and hunger in countries other than our own can be quite a challenge. So sincerely I have to congratulate and thank them for their care, patience and warming to welcome a group that is so diverse and distance! Ando most importantly: always keeping us motivated and focused on our main goal: helping others!
GVN is a delligent agency that meets their Mission statement and is a legitimate financial institution of donor funds. Both are necessary to serve clients. I have watched GVN evolve over five years with programs that offer a wide range of services to their clients, volunteers, staff etc. GVN is a global leader in the non-profit world.
I have taken part in every Eat So They Can since it began - I've hosted on a cruise ship in the middle of the Atlantic between Southampton & New York, in London, Wellington and Antarctica. The ESTC team are amazing. What impresses me is their dedication and genuine love for the work they do and the people they are helping. Having watched the distribution films, it is evident that the money raised goes directly where it is needed and is life-changing to the recipients.
I am currently volunteering as an intern at the GVN Foundation. I am involved in coordinating the media and communications of GVN Foundation's main fundraiser, Eat So They Can. Working at the GVN Foundation has been a fantastic experience so far - it is a wonderful organisation that is very upfront and clear about what it is trying to achieve. It is obviously creating an amazing impact in people's lives around the world. The people who work there are really lovely and supportive, and have made me feel welcome from the very first day. I have learnt a lot through my internship here as well as feeling like I have made a real contribution!
I interned for GVN Foundation in 2011 to work on their annual fundraising campaign. I really enjoyed my time at GVN Foundation and found the work to be challenging, inspiring and the staff to be incerdibly supportive! I admire the core values of GVN Foundation and the work it seeks to do and it is an organisation that continues to have my support as I follow the amazing work they are continuing to do!
I have supported projects of GVNF since 2007 and I have been impressed by their professionalism, their progress, their achievements and their processes every time. They work with amazing partners, many of whom I have had the opportunity to visit myself. They offer transparency and afford you the knowledge of how and where your funds are being used. They are brilliant with their follow-up and they link you to their causes so that you are able to adopt them as your own and understand why it is so important that we support them. The staff are informative, pleasant and professional and I love working with them. I have also visited their offices and met many other donors and volunteers of their programs. They have changed countless lives and should be supported.
GVN Foundation is hard working, devoted, consistent, and well managed. they respect the projects they serve by always asking us what are our biggest needs. and as those needs change, they adapt quickly and warmly - they do not think they know best, but always strive to learn more about us. they require us to fill reporting templates that make us think about the impact and lessons learned from each funding event. this helps us on the ground (in developing counties) to understand the effects of our work and how to improve next time around. it also helps GVN foundation to educate their donors on their own impact and responsibilities.
During 2011 I was an unpaid intern for GVN Foundation for their annual Eat So They Can campaign. This was my first taste of working in the non-profit/development sector, and eventually led to a job with GVN Foundation's sister org - which is great, as I am able to stay involved with what GVNF are doing. As well as being a great environment to work in, led by passionate and motivated people, it was a great insight into a small non-profit achieving great results in developing communities around the world. The cause - supporting vulnerable women and children through sustainable community development projects - is a great one, and GVNF's positive and energetic approach is refreshing in comparison to other organization's out there.
Global Volunteer Network Foundation is an organisation that really does help local communities around the world. Through my work, I always feel like I'm making a difference in other people's lives. Also, It is a great organisation to volunteer for. When I first started, I got a lovely morning tea to welcome me in. The staff are all lovely and friendly. I would definitely recommend Global Volunteer Network Foundation any day whether it be a place to donate or to volunteer.