Virtual Service-Learning
Inspiring empathy, catalyzing social action, and linking diverse communities—from anywhere.
Prior to 2020, Amizade’s work relied heavily on travel and in-person connection to build networks and inspire individuals. When the COVID-19 pandemic made that impossible, we developed a new way to share global service-learning experiences: Amizade VSL (Virtual Service Learning). VSL hasn’t replaced hands-on, community-based programming, but it is similarly affordable, accessible, intimate, engaging, and powerful. VSL programs can stand alone or be paired with travel to create dynamic, hybrid experiences.
Amizade VSL is now a key branch of our programming: more than 1,000 students have participated in our virtual programs since 2020, with inspiring results.
We're excited to share the following opportunities
Customized opportunities for groups.
VSL OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROUPS
Internship opportunities for individuals.
VIRTUAL INTERNSHIP PLACEMENTS
Our partners can to join classes or events.
GUEST SPEAKERS
THE PLATFORM
When you participate in our VSL course, you’ll interact in real-time with Amizade staff and site directors, learn from leaders of community organizations, and engage in thought-provoking discussions and activities. Even though you won’t travel, you’ll leave with a better understanding of both your Amizade site and your own community.
WHO IT'S FOR
High schools, universities, community groups, and corporations. Anyone who would travel with Amizade can also plan a VSL program.
WHAT WE'RE OFFERING
Our VSL programs are ideal for groups of 5-25 participants. We’ve designed a variety of courses and modules, featuring different sites, themes, and reflective activities. In most cases, the modules within each program can be customized to meet your group’s needs. Please contact us a minimum of one month before your desired program start date to plan a VSL program. Allow more time for longer or more complex requests.
SITE-SPECIFIC PROGRAMS
These programs focus on one Amizade site, where participants will dive into local issues with their site director and community members. Our most common site-specific program locations are: Appalachia, Bolivia, Brazil, Ghana, Italy, Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago. These programs include at least one Amizade facilitator who will lead the group in reflective activities, as well as presentations on related topics from content experts.
THEME PROGRAMS
These programs explore specific themes across multiple Amizade sites to examine how that theme affects different communities around the world. Sample themes include climate change, sustainable community development, racism and xenophobia, food insecurity and homelessness. Theme programs are highly customizable to fit your timeline, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
HYBRID PROGRAMS
If you haven’t yet decided what program type is right for you, we highly recommend our hybrid program model: a mix of VSL and in-person engagement where a virtual experience culminates in a travel experience. Feedback from our participants and data have shown that hybrid experiences combine the benefits of travel and virtual by deepening understanding, increasing participant buy-in, and maximizing on-the-ground time. Please contact us using the form below to learn more.
VSL IMPACT
Amizade’s VSL has proven to be replicate the positive impacts made by our travel programs over the past years. Check out the data below.
PLAN A VSL PROGRAM WITH US
Find out how you can plan a VSL program with Amizade.