THE SITUATION
Community development is a process where community members come together to take collective action and generate solutions to common problems. Community well being (economic, social, environmental and cultural) often evolves from collective action beginning at a grassroots level. Initiatives range from small projects within a small group to large more established programs that involve the broader community. The aim of community development is to build active and sustainable communities based on social justice and mutual respect. It is about changing power structures to remove barriers that prevent people from participating in the issues that affect their lives. The benefit of community development programs is that they provide jobs, income and infrastructure and help to form strong communities with solid foundations that are equipped to embrace and manage change. Social and economic changes transform rural and regional communities. Community development programs seek to improve quality of life. For most people living in developing countries, there is limited opportunity and many are challenged to find ways to lead a sound life so community development programs help to teach these people how to live a more balanced, healthy and eco-friendly life. Sustainable community development programs are, without a doubt, a mutual benefit to all those living within a community.
The volunteer programs we offer will provide you with an opportunity to assist community engagement and development teams with community and green business development activities, including basic village infrastructure projects (schools, health post, clean water systems and waste management, signage, etc.), reviewing non-timber forest product extraction plans, agroforestry work, environmental education, market research, and so forth. Main beneficiaries are the children, but understanding that their development depends on the entirety of their life, not just what happens at school. This includes their family, community and social structures. Therefore, volunteers help improve the lives of all individuals living within the communities by facilitating education and awareness projects, including ones relating to Education, health (such as HIV/AIDS) and empowerment of women. Volunteers may be required to help develop communities by assisting in creating outreach materials and presenting important information for everyone in the community to benefit from.