Members, Regular Givers and Interest Group 60-year VSA update

Fast forward to today where we currently have 73 volunteer positions in recruitment to assist partners across 11 countries and we aim to brief an additional 60 people who will join this team of dedicated volunteers by the end of April 2023.

With assignments being locally-identified, transferring of skills being exchanged and life-long partnerships continuously being formed, we are proud to celebrate 60 rich years of volunteering across the Pacific and beyond. 

We are dedicated to working alongside our international partners to increase the general well-being and future development of local communities. With the harsh after effects from the global pandemic still being felt, your support and advocacy as monthly regular donors, or members of VSA, or as regional interest group members, we see as part of making a meaningful impact to those in need of building a better future. 

Pacific countries face a combination of natural and internal constraints and external shocks that make achieving and maintaining inclusive and sustainable development a constant challenge. Poverty is widespread throughout the Pacific, with one in four Pacific people living below the national poverty line. More recently, the global pandemic, border closures, natural disasters, and the war in Ukraine have amplified economic, security, governance, and social vulnerabilities.  

The Pacific has also experienced the real and immediate impact of climate change. It is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. These disasters, along with declining biodiversity, have exacerbated food security issues.  

These challenges have increased existing inequalities for people and communities, including women, children, the elderly, people living with disabilities, and communities in geographically remote and hard-to-reach regions.  

The effects of the global pandemic and the impact of climate change on people’s homes, incomes, and way of life, are felt throughout the Pacific. Our thoughts are also with those of you impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle’s devastating floods and those who continue to rebuild in Tonga.