Our Mission
Voluntas is
an major International Belarusian and British NGO with a wide remit of
activities. These range from a nationwide programme for the
deinstitutionalisation of social orphans and disabled children to a successful
campaign for the destruction of Belarus’ stockpiles of surplus small arms and
light weapons. The underlying philosophy of Voluntas is encapsulated in its
motto, Helping people to help themselves. Every activity of Voluntas is
predicated on this principle. While we initiate we seek to create leadership in
local communities and interest groups by providing the tools, training and
materials needed to make each project we undertake ultimately self-sustaining.
A key to
this approach is partnership. We always seek partners, domestically, regionally
and internationally to share experience, expertise and vision. This has been
especially true in our work with children with profound multiple learning
disabilities and their families. The model which we use, and which is now
accepted as the primary form of early intervention for children with profound
multiple learning disabilities is the result of cooperation between ourselves,
parent groups, the Belarusian government, the UK Department for International
Development, the Red Cross and healthcare professionals throughout East Europe.
Cooperation flows both ways and Voluntas now provides training and support for
other working in this area throughout east and central Europe.
With over
ten years of experience in large and small scale projects in a wide range of areas and a
volunteer network of over 200 individuals in Belarus we can assist you as an
active partner in your projects. Please click here
to learn more.
Organisation Profile
Voluntas,
based in Great Britain, began its activities in East Europe in 1996. From the
outset Voluntas was engaged in both research and the provision of humanitarian
aid and care. The Executive Director of Voluntas moved to Belarus in 1998 in
order to accelerate programme development. As you will see from this website
the range of activities has expanded exponentially. To give but two examples
Voluntas has distributed over 10,000 pairs of prescription eyeglasses and has
been able to supply hearing aids to children and the elderly across Belarus.
Voluntas has provided training in early intervention in Russia, Ukraine, Moldova
and we are expanding our activities into the Baltics We are always eager for
new ideas and pleased to help other individuals and organisations implement
theirs. We believe firmly in cooperation with all groups which share our goals
and values.
Contact Information
- USA Telephone
- +1
U.S.A.: +1 617 418 3202
- UK Telephone
- +44
(0) 7193 5474
RB Telephone
+375 (0)29 699 4016
Fax
+375 (0)17 252 7314
- Postal address
- P. O. Box 100, Minsk 220074, Belarus
- Electronic mail
- General Information:
info@voluntas.org
Webmaster:
wm@voluntas.org
