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8TH AUG 2008
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 VSO, the world’s leading independent international development organisation that works through volunteers, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
It has led the way in volunteering and tackling world poverty over the last half century, driving a move away from young inexperienced volunteers to an emphasis on a genuine sharing of skills and experience.
Over 32,000 people have volunteered in 119 countries in the 50 years since VSO was set up. Respected names such as Jon Snow, Kate Adie, Zoe Lucker and George Alagiah have lent their support.
During the last 50 years, the type of person volunteering has changed greatly to meet differing needs. From the original ‘gap year’ students of the 1950s to highly experienced volunteers today with an average age of 41, VSO volunteers skills have progressed from a keenness to do something worthwhile to a much more strategic emphasis on tangible, transferable professional skills.
Volunteers from across the UK from occupations as diverse as plastic surgeons, teachers, sanitation engineers, boat builders, livestock advisors and geo-hazard advisors have shared their skills across the globe. The work that is done depends on the need of the host country, and VSO responds to requests from governments and community organisations in the developing world.
Jonathan Dimbleby, President of VSO, said: “I've been involved with VSO for many years. What is essential, and what I've seen time and time again, is the on the ground partnership and genuine sharing of skills.
The impact on the individuals and organisations with whom we work is far greater and far more sustained than you might imagine of a charity of VSO's size. Relationships are forged that endure. Relationships that are extremely useful in both countries.”
For more information visit www.vso.org.uk
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