An Overview of IVS
IVS GB is a peace organisation working for the sustainable development of local and global communities throughout the world. We are the leading charity involving volunteers in international exchanges (international voluntary projects). IVS GB is the British branch of Service Civil International (SCI), a world wide network of like minded branches and partner organisations supporting the mutual exchange of volunteers to work on projects of direct benefit to local communities.
Aims
IVS aims are:
- To foster peace and understanding between people and nations through voluntary work.
- To provide volunteer help to international projects and organisations working for the benefit of the community.
- To organise international projects and other activities in the UK.
History
In 1921 a group of French and German volunteers worked together to repair a French village that had been destroyed during the war. They were led by Pierre Ceresole, a Swiss national who set up Service Civil International to further the aims of peace, justice and understanding in the world.
The first international project in Great Britain, to build an outdoor swimming pool for the colliery town of Bryn Mawr, Wales, was in 1931. This was the beginning of International Voluntary Service.
There are now over 800 international projects worldwide every year, welcoming volunteers from all nations. Volunteers work, live and study together, learning about each other and about the wider issues in the community around them.
Organisation
IVS employs one staff member based in our office in Edinburgh who is supported by the work of the many interns and long term volunteers who work throughout the year. IVS staff are supported by elected Board of Directors and Trustees, responsible for the overall management of national and international issues.
Activities
Our biggest activity is running a programme of international voluntary projects in Great Britain which are run in partnership with local voluntary organisations and community groups. A typical project consists of 6 to 15 volunteers from several countries working and living together for 1 to 3 weeks. Projects are diverse, ranging from environmental conservation to supporting refugees, or from holiday play schemes for children to working with people with learning difficulties.
As the British branch of SCI, IVS GB also supports various aspects linked to international cooperation and conflict resolution such as exchanges to countries in the South and from time to time we run special interest weekends and local group activities. Through our international network, we also enable volunteers from Great Britain to take part in international projects abroad and become involved in peace initiatives through international volunteering.
Finances
IVS has limited funds therefore outside support is essential in order to continue to offer a programme of international voluntary projects in Great Britain, meet the need for new volunteers and develop.
IVS is run by a minimum of staff and active volunteers. Your money does make a difference. If you are a taxpayer, you can help IVS to reclaim the tax you have paid on your membership and registration fees through Gift Aid.
Equality of Opportunity
IVS has an Equal Opportunities Policy. We welcome and respect everyone who wants to take part in our activities whatever your age, gender, faith, cultural heritage, sexuality or background.