Discover, Plan & Go!

Global Volunteers focuses on the needs of three increasingly diverse Minnesota communities (Austin, Pelican Rapids, and Worthington) which have become microcosms of the world at large. These evolving communities, having experienced an explosive growth of immigrant populations over the last decade, emphasize learning English to ease these new citizens into their "adopted" society. By teaching conversational English to warm, fun-loving immigrant children and adults, you can help address the social challenges they face in school and at work.

The Blackfeet people, once referred to as "The Lords of the Great Plains, had a reputation of being hospitable to Europeans, and were regular commerce partners with Canadian-based British merchants. It is believed they obtained their name from the traditional black color of their moccasins, which were painted or darkened by ashes from prairie fires. Montana volunteer programs have included constructing and repairing playgrounds, and landscaping and beautifying other spaces, such as family recreation areas. Many team members work at the Eagle Shield assisted living, Early Childhood Center, the Boys and Girls Club, Blackfeet Community College and Blackfeet Care Center. People of all ages can provide valuable assistance on a number of these projects, which require only generalist skills, recognizing that the community's foremost goal is to acquaint volunteers with day-to-day life on the reservation.

Serve and learn about the resiliant people of the historic coal-mining towns deep in the "hollers" of Appalachia. Global Volunteers assist in this heavily rural and improverished region with labor and education projects, including repairing and renovating former coal-company houses, where low-income families can live affordably.You're needed to work alongside, and be a mentor to, participants in the local "Youth Build" program. Help young people study for their GED, and learn construction skills. You may also have the opportunity to assist with an after school program at the Beard's Fork Community Center. Volunteers of all ages can be very useful on all of these projects, regardless of skills and background.