Global Visionaries

Global Visionaries' mission is "to educate and empower youth to become active leaders and global citizens who promote social and environmental justice through community service at home and abroad."

The organization's programs "educate young people on peace, justice, and environmental issues, foster cross-cultural understanding, and strengthen communities and families, uniting diverse local communities and building international ties, fostering the tangible hope of lasting peace." Educators, community leaders, parents, and high school students partner with local and international organizations to broaden and further their common goal for social and environmental justice.

Founded in 1997, and incorporated as a 501(c)3 in 2002, Global Visionaries serves Seattle, Washington high school students. The students participate in a year long leadership program which includes "various cultural and antiracism workshops, a cultural immersion trip to Guatemala,  and local and international development projects, where Global Visionaries Work Teams partner with various organizations to collectively address important issues such as poverty, immigrant's and civil rights, protecting ecological resources, and preserving Mayan indigenous culture."

For more information on Global Visionaries, please visit their website.

Living Earth Television

Living Earth Television (LETV) is the world's first global, noncommercial broadcasting service. LETV finds nonfiction programs made by local tv producers and independents around the world, and translate them for broadcast to an international audience. It's mission is to "promote understanding, appreciation and respect as foundations for sustainability and peace."

Founded in 2001 by Martha Foster, LETV's Executive Director, it is the organization's belief that by sharing these programs, from around the world, viewers can learn about their global neighbors. Through understanding and celebration of similarities and differences they can build a more peaceful and sustainable world.

Programming showcases the following facets of life:

• Our global neighborhood
• The World of Children
• Earth works
• Arts and Artisans
• Spiritual Practices
• Peace Makers
• Bridges

You can see LETV's first series on LinkTV and select PBS's stations this year. For more program information and information on how you can get involved, including how you can submit programs visit LETV's site.

Infinite Skies

Founded in 2006 and based in Alexandria, VA, Infinite Skies is "dedicated to improving the life of children and promoting awareness of children's needs and issues." They have a special focus on children with special needs, including the seriously ill, abused, neglected, and socio-economically disadvantaged.

Their call to "Reach for the Stars" is a collection of programs under the categories: Research, Education, Awareness, Culture, and Health to pursue the organization mission. Here's a brief overview of each category.

Research for Kids- raises and contributes funds to programs, centers, and hospitals dedicated to research on issues and illness affecting infants through adolescents. 

Educating Kids- designed to promote learning and provide educational opportunities for children and schools in need. These programs include providing educational supplies, scholarships, learning conferences, and tutoring services.

Awareness Makes a Difference- programs dedicated to inspiring community involvement, addressing subject matter concerning children, and promoting awareness of children's issues through its volunteer program, educational seminars, discussion clubs for adults, and newsletters.

Cultural Kids- programs include a series of activities and field trips designed to provide exposure to the arts and music, promote cultural awareness, and inspire creativity and confidence.

Healthy Kids- programs are designed to improve the physical and emotional well being of children, including entertainment, performances, and gifts.

For more information please visit the Infinite Skies site.

Cross Cultural Solutions

Cross Cultural Solutions, (CCS), is an international volunteer program that matches volunteers with local organizations to work on community led initiatives.  Their mission is "dedicated to the vision of a world where people value cultures different from their own, are aware of global issues, and are empowered to effect positive change."

Founded in 1995, CCS operates in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America. The organization offering three different volunteering experiences: Volunteer Abroad, Intern Abroad, and Insight Abroad. These programs range from from 1 to 12 weeks and volunteers have over 20 program sites to choose from. Volunteer placements are within the following categories: Caregiving, Community Development, Healthcare, and Teaching. The objective of volunteer placement is to match the immediate needs of the community with the skills and interests of each volunteer.

This organization is great for anyone who is interested in getting involved on a more international level. Or wishes to support the organization's global initiatives.