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Where it All Started
In the early 1990s, some students wanted a break from study - a “gap year,” although the term wasn't yet in common use. They approached their geography professor about traveling and working in Eastern Europe. The professor, Dr. Peter Slowe, had difficulty finding any opportunities for this kind of travel combined with work experience, so he set about arranging for his students to go and teach English in Romania where he knew some fellow academics. This was how Projects Abroad began in 1992.
Projects Abroad Today
Until 1997, Projects Abroad was a small organization with two part time staff members sending university students abroad for teaching projects in Eastern Europe. But with more and more people taking time out on academic and work-related breaks - and with many developing countries in need of self-funded volunteers - our organized volunteer programs have mushroomed around the world. Our volunteers now do a lot more than teach English.
We now have two North American offices located in New York City and Toronto. With more than 250 trained staff in our destinations, and offering over 100 generic projects, we are one of the leading international volunteer organizations.
The Global Economy and Cultural Exchange in the 21st Century
As part of the global economy, we help create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. For example, our management accountant is an MBA who works and lives in Mongolia! This local knowledge and support enables us to channel the skills of our volunteers to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet while gaining experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.
"Last year, we channeled into less developed countries the energy, skills and commitment of some 3,000 volunteers - not to mention nearly four million dollars and the spending power of volunteers while they are abroad. This is quite an achievement." Dr. Peter Slowe, Founder & Director of Projects Abroad