Sparking lasting change for everyone

Real change. Led by locals. Powered by Ireland.

Real change starts with people who choose to act. When they choose to stand with people, VSO volunteers spark others into action, to teach, to build skills, to rebuild trust and societies. Because around the world too many people stand alone - excluded from their basic rights, education, or a chance to earn a living. Through their time, skills and lived experience, volunteers spark lasting change, until no-one stands alone.

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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.

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Hear stories from volunteers and communities and stay up-to-date with the latest VSO news.

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Juliet stands in an empty classroom.
VSO/Spanora Media

Opening doors to safety, education, and a brighter future

For girls in Karamoja, the poorest region in Uganda, being forced into early motherhood is all too common.  Many girls are a risk of assault. Nowhere is safe. Will you open the door to safety and an education this Christmas?

Najeeba
VSO/AkifullahKhan

An education can't wait

An education is a universal human right, yet refugees like nine-year-old Saad* and 12-year-old Najeeba* are missing out. Having fled the conflict in Afghanistan, they’re now living in Pakistan. Out of school, children are in danger. Every day counts. You can help bring them back into class.

Smiling women
VSO/Obscuramedia

Video: What does peace mean to you?

Watch our video which spotlights the story of Galgalo and his family who are bearing the brunt of conflict and climate change and discover how you're helping them feel no longer powerless.

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Youth planting seeds
Paul Wambugu/Obscuramedia

Blog

Stay up-to-date with the latest news from VSO Ireland.

Peacebuilding Livelihoods Kenya Ethiopia IPDHE

VSO Ireland annual report

The past few years have been marked by significant global challenges. We are all at risk but some are much more vulnerable than others. VSO’s purpose is to create a fair world for everyone. Our commitment is to leave no-one behind.

Fishing boat
Paul Wambugu/Obscuramedia

Vision, values and strategy

Our purpose is to create lasting change through volunteering. We bring about change not by sending aid, but by working through volunteers and partners to empower people living in the some of the world’s poorest and most overlooked regions.