Nirmala smiles as she sits on the floor to talk with 'Big Sister' Durga
VSO/Suraj Shakya

"Very few girls miss school now"

Nirmala used to struggle at school as she was told by her parents to prioritise domestic work over education - but after three years on the Sisters for Sisters project, her grades and confidence have hugely improved.

Durga Bista smiles
VSO/Suraj Shakya

Meet Durga: A Big Sister with a huge impact

When Durga Bista was 18, she dropped out of school to get married and dedicate her time to household chores. Now, she volunteers as a ‘Big Sister’, supporting vulnerable girls in her home community of Ranighat to stay in school.

Impact beyond volunteering

VSO’s Impact beyond volunteering study explores how the experience of volunteering creates lasting changes in VSO volunteers themselves, impacting their future behaviour, career choices and influence on others.

Community volunteers in the field to conduct surveys after Cyclone Idai.
VSO/Peter Caton

In photos: Grassroots recovery in Mozambique

The devastating effects of March’s cyclones linger on - but it is community volunteers who are leading the march towards recovery and ongoing resilience.

ICS Social Return on Investment Evaluation

The ICS Social Return on Investment Evaluation demonstrates the long-term socio-economic value of youth volunteering.

A student watches intently as her instructor demonstrates machinery in a welding and metal workshop

Employment and entrepreneurship

Ensuring that everyone has access to decent employment and market opportunities.

Community volunteer in Nepal

About VSO

VSO volunteers and partners reached over 10.9 million people last year.

Pilipino community volunteer Jovencia laughs with her friend
Lisa Marie David

Where we work

Where VSO projects are happening across Africa and Asia.

Woman smiling with organic crops
Lisa Marie David

Our work

We fight poverty not by sending aid, but by working through volunteers and partners to create long-lasting change in some of the world’s poorest regions.

People read a VSO document as part of the One Community, One Family research project in Nepal
Suraj Ratna Shakya

Our research

Our research helps us continuously improve, innovate and shape our development priorities.

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