The History of IVI
Involvement Volunteers Association Inc. (IVI) started in 1989, with seven volunteers from the UK volunteering in Australia. That number has now developed to over 300 people volunteering in over 30 countries worldwide every year.
IVI is helping volunteers from over 16 countries to participate in the many and varied volunteer placements available in an increasing number of lands around the world. IVI currently has associate organisations in:
- Argentina
- Australia
- Ecuador
- England
- Fiji
- Germany
- New Zealand
- South Africa.
Each IVI associate, or local organisation, is an autonomous Non-Governmental Organisation. Other volunteer organisations in over 40 countries also act as hosts for IVI volunteers.
IVI's Aim
IVI's aim is to enable everyone that wants to help others to volunteer outside their home country. We believe that everyone can learn and grow from their positive volunteering experiences. So far our volunteers have been aged between 16 and 75 years!
Our ongoing aim is to have IVI volunteers offering their assistance- either social services in the community or sustainable development and management of the natural environment - everywhere in the world that it is needed.
If you're looking to make a difference in the lives of others, and want a challenging, rewarding and life changing experience, IVI is ready to make it happen.
Meet the Team
 Rheema Issa
Positions:
Volunteer Program Coordinator (VPC) and Bookkeeper
What do you do for your customers?
As one of the Volunteer Program Coordinators, I am responsible for suggesting placements and assisting volunteers plan their Programs. I am also part of the team providing 24/7 support for volunteers, where and when it's needed during their travels.
What do you like best about working here?
The not-for-profit challenge when operating in over 60 countries. And constantly seeking to develop new and efficient ways to help each host and volunteer involved in placements. This requires meeting the IVI customer's needs and expectations, especially those of different cultures and backgrounds from all over the world. This is a challenging and interesting job.
What is your favourite part of IVI's services?
IVI opens up various volunteering opportunities for people who have a genuine interest in helping others, and those who are qualified and experts in particular fields of interest. IVI plays a significant role in assisting people and places that have been affected by natural disasters. Anybody from anywhere around the world can become an IVvolunteer and we are flexible in giving volunteers the freedom to choose where they go and what they wish to achieve.
What are your values and personal style?
I value hard work and putting in as much effort as I can, and helping as much as possible. Everyone has something different to give and, in return, will get a meaningful experience out of it. I also believe in "Never giving up", just keep trying. If one way doesn't work try another until you have achieved your goal.
What is your best tip for volunteers?
Choose a placement that is suitable to your abilities or needs for experience. Take the initiative to try something new and be productive. Be open minded and use your common sense. Respect the differences of other cultures and the effects of changes that might happen.
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