Building on the discussions of the first day, breakout sessions on Day 2 will invite delegates to explore the different ways we can think about solidarity. We will provide time and space to reflect together on what we mean by solidarity, where it might already be present in our relationships and how the process of asking questions might help us to strengthen it further.

In this How-to Workshop, speakers will focus on strengthening delegates' technical knowledge and building their capacity in evidence gathering, practical project design and management, and impact pathways, focusing on the needs and challenges of the volunteering and development sector.

Moderator: Maxine Mpofu (Centre for Global Development, Northumbria University)

• Speaker: Elizabeth Jung (Peace Corps)
• Title: “Reaching solidarity in volunteering: exploring different models of support”

This presentation will engage attendees in interactive discussions aimed at evaluating their own volunteer programmes and the state of volunteering in partner countries. The focus will be on exploring how international and domestic volunteers can collaborate effectively. Delegates will gain insights into the limitations of volunteerism as a solution to youth and unemployment challenges, recognising that volunteerism alone is not a panacea. The session will highlight the importance of developing a volunteer pipeline when creating national service programmes and how International Volunteer Sending Organisations (IVSOs) can support this process. Additionally, delegates will learn about the various approaches the Peace Corps is taking to build solidarity between its own volunteers and those in partner countries. Through this exploration, participants will be invited to explore practical strategies that can strengthen solidarity in volunteer programmes.

• Speakers: Sophia Nthuku (Habitat for Humanity)
• Title: “Revitalising international volunteering: Insights from Habitat for Humanity's Global Volunteering programme”

This workshop presentation will explore the transformation of Habitat for Humanity’s Global Village international volunteering programme, which underwent significant changes following the pandemic-induced suspension in 2020. With a 30-year legacy, the programme was paused, providing the organisation with an opportunity to reflect on and realign it with Habitat for Humanity’s mission of decent and affordable housing. After thorough study and consultation, the Global Village programme was relaunched with a renewed focus on actively engaging volunteers in diverse areas beyond construction, including Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Livelihoods, and Advocacy programmes, aligned with Habitat for Humanity’s mission and vision. Among the many changes, the concept of Social Learning Exchange Activities was incorporated into the Global Village programme. Previously, volunteers participated in an enriching week-long build at one of Habitat for Humanity's programme sites. However, as the organisation's strategic direction evolved to encompass the entire housing ecosystem, so did its approach to volunteering. Social Learning Exchange activities are now designed to engage volunteers in various programme areas beyond construction. After nearly seven months of piloting, numerous lessons have been learnt, inspiring ongoing engagement with all stakeholders. The workshop will share these experiences, focusing on how Habitat has been working to co-create and design meaningful volunteer activities, and the presentation will facilitate an exchange of ideas on sustaining volunteer engagement beyond the actual volunteering period.

*Four different modalities of breakout sessions have been designed to amplify diverse voices and promote opportunities for delegates to share their experiences in engaging ways during IVCO 2024.
Click here to find out more about what to expect from each type of breakout session.