What we do
VSO is the world’s leading independent international development organisation that works through volunteers to fight poverty in developing countries. VSO's high impact approach involves bringing people together to share skills, build capabilities, promote international understanding and action, and change lives to make the world a fairer place for all.
VSO: Our history
Since 1958, VSO has sent out over 32,000 volunteers to share skills and change lives in more than 120 developing countries around the world.
VSO: Case studies
Read inspiring stories about VSO's impact and what it's like to volunteer with VSO:
Quotes
VSO is a great organisation because it brings together the skills and talents of professionals and shares them with other individuals for the betterment of both people.
Jonathan Dimbleby, Broadcaster and VSO President
When I was a student I was taught by VSO volunteers. I taught with them. Volunteers leave a lasting memory. They equip people with skills so when they leave the skills remain here. We learn from them and they learn from us - it’s a shared endeavour.
Rose Kaath, Education Officer, Upper West Ghana
Abdul Quyyam
Primary teacher trainer - Pakistan
Abdul Qayyum had been a primary teacher in the UK for 40 years when he retired in 2004. In all of those years he had not returned to his native Pakistan. When he applied to VSO he hoped that he would find himself volunteering in Thailand or China, but when he was offered a placement training primary teachers in Pakistan he saw it not only as a professional challenge, but as an opportunity to learn more about his home country.