Village Exchange International (Ghana) has changed and is still changing and improving the lives of individuals in the rural parts of the Volta region by bringing electricity (solar energy) to villages that are in serious need of such resources. Not only this, they also have an academy where they teach both individuals and other schools in general about solar, ICT, electrical and reproductive, sexual and maternal health. I have witnessed some of their projects and I would definitely recommend this non-profit organization to anyone willing to make donations or any way they can to help them continue changing lives in these parts of Ghana. Village Exchange International, great work done!
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I would say Village Exchange Ghana is doing an amazing job. Following their projects in various communities in the Volta region, this is a non-governmental organization worth recommending.
As a member of this region, I feel compelled to share my positive experience with Village Exchange Ghana. This organization has truly become a beacon of hope and empowerment for our region, and I am grateful to be a part of it.
Village Exchange Ghana excels in its commitment to fostering sustainable development. The initiatives they have implemented are not only impactful but also designed with the community's long-term well-being in mind. The focus on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment is evident in the positive changes we've witnessed over the years.
One of the standout features of Village Exchange Ghana is its dedication to education. The organization supports schools by opening its doors to various schools lacking practical equipment. This commitment has opened up new opportunities for the younger generation.
Healthcare is another area where Village Exchange Ghana shines. The organization has implemented various health projects like sexual, reproductive and maternal health programs that address the specific needs of various communities. From regular health check-ups to awareness campaigns, Village Exchange Ghana is actively working towards creating a healthier and more informed population.
What truly sets Village Exchange Ghana apart is its approach to economic empowerment. The organization has successfully initiated projects that encourage entrepreneurship and skill development. They aim to empower women like me to do what men can do and make a living for myself. I would say i have been empowered, thanks to Village Exchange Ghana. This has not only reduced unemployment and dependency in the communities but has also given individuals the tools to break the cycle of poverty.
In conclusion, Village Exchange Ghana is not just an organization; it's a catalyst for positive change. Its holistic approach to community development has transformed lives. I am proud to be a part of a region that is supported by such a dedicated and impactful organization. Thank you, VEG!
Review from Guidestar
Well, where do I begin when reviewing Village Exchange Ghana (VEG)? My six months with them in Ghana were fantastic. The organisation is based in the Volta Region’s capital, Ho, which in my opinion is the ideal location for anyone undertaking their first volunteer placement in Africa. The town in large enough to allow you to have plenty to do (and meet other volunteers to explore the area with) but not so large as to be intimidating to a first time visitor to West Africa (as Accra and Kumasi can be). VEG attracts volunteers from a wide range of countries and across all age brackets and everyone is made to feel equally welcome.
The staff are all incredibly friendly and welcoming (as are people in Ghana generally) and there are normally a couple of long-term volunteers around that can show you the ropes and help newcomers adjust to life in Ho. If volunteers are willing to work then there will always be plenty to do in the office. Although staff can on occasion be reluctant to delegate tasks that problem can be rectified by either discussing it with Christiane (the director) or having a chat with the appropriate program officer. Village Exchange has several projects running simultaneously meaning there really is something for everyone. The microfinance program is ideal for those with a more academic background (particularly in maths/economics) and the sexual and reproductive health project is well suited to those with good interpersonal skills as it can often require public speaking and the running of workshops (normally aimed at VEG’s target groups – women and children). For those who are more artistically gifted the batik and jewellery projects offer a superb opportunity to flex your creative muscle. Unfortunately that area is not my forte but I was able to purchase many creations to take home as gifts. Did I mention that VEG has the best gift shop in Ho?
Unlike many other organisations in the area (I’m not naming names) VEG take excellent care of their volunteers’ welfare throughout their stay. I heard several horror stories after my arrival from volunteers with other organisation who were basically dumped with a host family who could speak very little English and who were not able to meet the dietary needs of the volunteers. To clarify, this was not the fault of the host families but of the organisation who did not research or educate their host families thoroughly enough. However I am very glad to say that this is not a problem for VEG volunteers. The accommodation is of a very high standard (relatively speaking of course, if you’re looking for the Ritz then perhaps volunteering in Africa is not for you) and the food which is provided by the organisation’s cook is simply amazing! Perhaps the only complaint I can think of is that during my time there I gained weight as I simply could not stop eating! Normally for lunch volunteers are provided with a delicious local dish (normally quite spicy and carb heavy – you have been warned!) and for dinner something more Western. In my opinion the VEG house offers the best food in Ho and I often turned down the opportunity to eat in local hotels knowing that the meal that awaited me at home would be far superior.
A word of warning though, if you volunteer with VEG you may be subject to friendly teasing from volunteers with other NGOs who are incredibly jealous of how well looked after you are! During my six month stay I literally lost count of the number of volunteers from other organisation who by the end of their stay said that they wished they had volunteered with VEG. Not only are VEG volunteers well cared for, we also are able to use our skills in a way that many other volunteers are not. It is not uncommon for volunteers (particularly young volunteers) to arrive in Ghana and be placed in schools/orphanages with little or no support. I am very glad to say that this will not happen to a VEG volunteer. Every project that a volunteer decides to undertake will be monitored by the relevant project manager and feedback is given at weekly staff meetings keeping volunteers in the loop regarding how effect their efforts have been.
All in all my experience with VEG was great and I would have no problem recommending it to other people thinking of volunteering in Ghana!