Welcome to Partners Corner where Volunteers for Prosperity partner organizations, U.S.-based nonprofits and companies, can exchange useful information based on topics related to international voluntary service. This forum provides VfP partners periodic opportunities to share with others in the VfP partner network insights and perspectives on managing volunteer programs.

This month VfP partner, the Multicultural Council of America, shares its insights on the topics listed below. The Multicultural Council of America (MCC) "is a nonprofit charitable organization founded on September 11, 2001, to promote better understanding & peace among Americans of all ethnic backgrounds and among people of all nations around the world. The organization seeks individuals & groups to establish a network of MCC chapters in all parts of the USA and around the world, to provide health & education to children, and to protect & improve the lives of women and the elderly." [Source: MCC] For more information about MCC's volunteer activities, click here.

1. Importance of volunteers to your organization's mission

Volunteers are the key to our success. They share their knowledge and are dedicated to the social and economic development of fellow human beings in need. They also bring ideas, financial support, management skills and other valuable resources vital to the success of our organization.

The MCC believes that America is a Nation of Nations and it is only with learning about and respecting world cultures, that we can accomplish our goals of peace and better understanding among Americans of all ethnic backgrounds as well as among all nations.

MCC also feels that individuals and non-governmental organizations must play a bigger role to improve the quality of lives of people around the world through cultural, educational & health-related programs.

2. Primary challenges facing your organization's volunteer program

It is indeed a challenge to find dedicated volunteers. However, we are fortunate that our organization represents thousands of Americans who belong to or associate with one or more ethnic groups, and who respect and understand the needs of the less fortunate in all parts of the world.

3. Steps taken by your organization to meet those challenges

Because the Multicultural Council of America is involved in cultural, educational & health related activities within the United States as well as overseas, our organization offers volunteers and prospective volunteers the opportunity to choose what they would like to accomplish.

From helping neighbors within their own communities to helping those in need around the world, MCC volunteers have the option to spend as little time or as much time to help improve lives through service. If individuals are interested in helping the developing world, there are ample opportunities to travel overseas and volunteer on projects such as providing medical care or building a school. Our skilled American volunteers can contribute immensely to improve the health, education or economic development of people around the world and can select a particular project or region which might interest them.

4. Tips for creating and managing effective volunteer programs

MCC believes that a successful program comes from creating volunteer projects that are flexible and interesting, and by focusing on creativity, choices, and personal satisfaction. This helps to maintain vigor & excitement among the volunteers!

Note: Partners Corner is not intended to serve as a vehicle for making recommendations to the VfP Office, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) or the U.S. Government. Views on the topics are completely voluntary and help to facilitate a useful exchange of ideas among VfP partners on best practices, challenges, and lessons learned relating to international voluntary service.

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