Support and Services

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Support and Services

Whole Foods Market conducted a thorough review of volunteering organizations before deciding to partner with Global Vision International on our employee volunteer program. GVI stood out as an ethical organization committed to promoting sustainable development through environment research, conservation and education. We are looking forward to developing our joint vision of a sustainable world.

John Mackey – Chairman and CEO – Whole Foods Market - March 2007

For many GVI volunteers, volunteering overseas is one of the most significant travel experiences of their lives. GVI volunteers expect to go on volunteer vacations that give them the opportunity to have amazing adventures whilst they make a real difference to the country in which they find volunteer work. GVI partners expect to be joined by enthusiastic volunteers who are well prepared and well informed, whether they have traveled before or not.

By taking all these factors into account in all areas of volunteer travel, from the development of new projects to training field staff and preparing pre-departure information; GVI can offer all their volunteers and partners the support and services they need to reach their goals. GVI’s commitment to our volunteers and partners has been key to our success in becoming one of the most respected volunteering organizations in the world.

Below you will find further information about GVI’s commitment to you. All aspects are constantly reviewed, updated and improved. Offering a comprehensive support structure before, during and after your experience will ensure peace of mind for you when embarking on your voluntourism adventure, and for your family and friends back at home!

GVI assure quality to you by having:

Unparalleled in-the-field support provided through GVI’s network of international offices employing over 150 field staff.
Experienced and highly knowledgeable office staff, who all visit the project sites regularly, and have all volunteered (many with GVI) and traveled themselves so have an in-depth knowledge about the project, destination, other things to do and see in the project destinations, and can offer up to date and savvy advice on travel issues and what to take.
Fully researched, managed and regularly assessed projects that ensure your safety and enjoyment.

The following list highlights GVI’s standard support and services. Individual programs offer tailor-made services to fit each particular project. Please see individual program’s dates and costs pages for detailed information on what is included.

GVI offer volunteers the following support and advice

Pre-Departure:

Information sessions: held throughout North America these offer a great opportunity to meet the GVI team and ex-participants
Pre-departure training opportunities: including free online wildlife courses and weekend teaching courses, all exclusively developed for GVI's projects and expeditions
Field reps: GVI has a great team of ex-participants from North America who are only too happy to talk about their personal experiences
Field manuals: which are fully updated and regularly reviewed to tell you all you need to know about your project, destination, travel requirements, equipment and much more
Fundraising advice and support
International travel assistance and advice
Fully comprehensive and professional insurance services
Discounted travel guidebooks
Discounted outdoor equipment
Discounted medical equipment and services.

In the Field:

Airport pick up and drop off
A welcome and orientation session
Food and accommodation
In-country coordinators – for every country where GVI operates
Project managers to ensure you get the most out of your experience and help you with any problems you may have
A 24 hour emergency phone line
Fully comprehensive onsite training
All training materials.

You will always have the full support of the GVI team at home and in the host country.

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