How we work

Tools in CUSO-VSO's development toolbox include:
Long-term overseas volunteering – Professional placements for up to two years. Our volunteers help build social infrastructure by passing on their expertise. They come from both developed and developing nations.
Short-term specialist assignments – Positions of six months and under for highly experienced professionals who provide support at senior levels. They come from both developed and developing nations.
Developing world 'National Volunteering' – Support for in-country volunteering, helping people contribute to the development of their own communities. VSO does not run these programs but rather supports local agencies that provide volunteer opportunities.
Diaspora communities volunteering – Support for people interested in using their skills in their countries of birth or heritage.
Development partnerships – Strategic alliances with select business partners, and tri-party linkages among organizations in the developing world and like-minded groups in North America.
LINKS (Learning through International Networking and Knowledge Sharing) – A program that gives partner groups the chance to go to another country to learn and share best practices.
Public engagement in North America – Using the knowledge gained at the grassroots of international development to raise awareness of – and action on – global issues at home.

