Overview

Since 1963, VIA has helped thousands of Americans live and volunteer in Asia. We offer two types of opportunities to US residents: Summer programs provide short-term, focused cultural exchange experiences, while our one- and two-year positions allow individuals to volunteer with underserved institutions for an extended period of time.

Feel free to download our brochures.

Who is Eligible?

If you are interested in cross-cultural exchange and furthering communication and understanding between the peoples of the United States and Asia, chances are there is a VIA program for you. We are looking for undergraduates, recent college graduates, and adults of all ages who are living in the United States and interested in exploring new opportunities. Fluency in English is a prerequisite for program participation. A college degree is required for our one- and two-year positions.

A VIA volunteer and her students walk to class in Hanoi, Vietnam.	A VIA volunteer teaches English at a Buddhist monastery in Myanmar.	A VIA volunteer enjoys a boat ride on the Mekong River with friends.

Summer Programs - Overview

VIA's summer programs are designed to help you explore Asia while participating in a community in a meaningful way. Our summer programs in China, Indonesia, and Vietnam allow undergraduates and college grads to become involved with local communities over a 4- to 8-week summer period. Participants in China learn about traditional Chinese medicine, participants in Indonesia live with families and volunteer at a local nonprofit, and participants in Vietnam organize an American culture course for university students.

1 & 2 Year Volunteer Programs - Overview

If you are interested in living in Asia and volunteering with a community that values your contributions, VIA is interested in you. We have ongoing relationships with underserved institutions where your English skills will be highly appreciated. You will work either as an English teacher at an educational institution or as an English resource volunteer with a local non-profit organization. Teaching experience and Asian language skills are not required; we will help you gain both. What is important is that you are an English-fluent college graduate living in the US who is excited about a new set of challenges and a new world of opportunity across the Pacific.

Why VIA?

For 44 years, VIA has been working with underserved populations in Asia. Our well-established relationships with host institutions and extensive list of involved alumni assures the new volunteer of VIA's strength and stability. We encourage you to contact the home office and ask to speak to alumni when you are considering applying to a VIA program.

Every year we offer 40 to 50 amazing volunteers the opportunity to become a valued member of an Asian community. Will you be one?

Our Brochures

There is plenty of information on this Web site, including a FAQ page. You can also download concise PDF versions of our promotional Summer Programs brochure and our One- and Two-Year Volunteer Programs brochure.

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