Creating lasting change by unlocking the power of people
We know that simply sending money can’t make the kind of lasting changes we all want to see. So, we unlock the power of people, bringing together local, national and international volunteers to work alongside the world’s most marginalised and vulnerable communities to build generational change.
We have experience working in over 90 countries
We've worked with over 80,000 volunteers.
We've supported over 50 million people
Support us with a donation
Other ways to support VSO
Fundraise for VSO
We’re stronger when we stand together. So, we’ve made some simple how-to guides to provide inspiration and support for your own fundraising initiatives. Find out about fundraising in your community, together with your friends, or in your workplace.
Remember VSO in your will
A gift in your will can make an impact on the world that lasts for years to come, helping communities build better lives for themselves and access the kind of education, healthcare and opportunities we all take for granted.
Volunteer with VSO
Help build a fairer and more just world by standing shoulder to shoulder with vulnerable communities, helping them build better lives for themselves.
Areas of work
Inclusive education
Making sure everyone gets the skills they need to live a fulfilled, dignified life.
Over the past five years we have supported almost 3,500,000 children to access the quality education they deserve.
Resilient livelihoods
Ensuring people have the skills and opportunities needed to support themselves and their families.
770,000 people have benefited from our work supporting livelihoods over the past five years.
Healthy communities
Improving health services for all and empowering the most marginalised to exercise their right to quality care.
Over the past five years we have helped over 3,600,000 people access better healthcare.
Latest news
Hear stories from volunteers and communities and stay up-to-date with the latest VSO news.
The right to education for girls with disabilities
Izna was born with a hearing impairment and her school in Nepal didn’t have the resources to support her, forcing her to drop out. With the help of the ENGAGE project, Inza is now back in education and thriving.
Investing in small farmers, agroecology critical to get us out of current food crisis
Already battered by the climate crisis and COVID-19, Africa is now facing rising food prices in light of the war in Ukraine.
Meet VSO’s youth innovators and climate champions
Meet Hosea Tumwine – an extraordinary young person and enthusiastic champion of women and girls’ rights in Uganda. Hosea is a member of VSO’s global youth network.
Our vision
Vision, values and strategy
A fair world for everyone. Creating lasting change through volunteering.
UK Aid Volunteering for Development
Driving volunteer impact to deliver improved health, education and livelihoods outcomes for two million people.
Annual review
Read our full annual review for 2020-21, and download reports from previous years.
Volunteering with VSO
Make an impact by sharing your skills and experience with some of the most marginalised people in the world. Become a VSO volunteer.