We have a great deal to learn from one another. Each culture of the world has a unique perspective on life. When we work together, we're united in a common goal...which can bridge language, geographical and cultural divides. Global Volunteers' philosophy asks you to offer yourself openly and fully in helping deliver essential services to our partner communities.

This model is especially instructive to all who are helping to build this interconnected world - and enjoy relating to different people, cultures and lifestyles seamlessly and respectfully. When Global Volunteers was founded in 1984, we created the concept of the "servant learner" to describe how we viewed the volunteer's role in our host communities. On every team, we strive to support local people's efforts toward self-development and the community's self-sufficiency. We are "servants" in this effort - not in the sense of being slaves, of course. But, we remain open-minded and open-hearted. We agree to help local people in the manner they request - within our personal limitations.

As "learners," volunteers are encouraged to open themselves to the new, to a fresh perspective. We invite you to put away your preconceived notions, biases and prejudices and hopefully learn much like a child learns.

The "servant learner" is a "good neighbor," someone who notices we're working on a home project and asks, "Can I lend a hand?" Sometimes that neighbor might give us the momentum to get the project started. (For example, a helpful neighbor might say "If you have an extra brush, I'll help you get started with your painting project.") This is the foundation of Global Volunteers' development partnerships worldwide.

Learn how Global Volunteers pioneered the servant learner philosophy.