The Niigata International Volunteer Center (NVC) is an NPO based in Niigata that carries out international cooperation. Valuing the idea that "Niigata and the world connect directly, meet, help each other and grow together," it works to build an environment in which people can join forces across borders.
NVC aims to overcome five kinds of "boundaries": national borders, race, religion, generational barriers and economic disparity. Its stated mission is to give poor children in Vietnam education, scholarships, technical support and emotional support so that the children themselves can build the strength to open up their own futures. Rather than one-sided aid, it hopes to build trusting relationships and personal growth, which in turn contribute to the development of Niigata.
The website introduces its Vietnam student scholarship supporters program (recruiting 10 supporters every year; 40,000 yen per scholarship student per year for four years), study tours, and calls for members and volunteers. In a crowdfunding campaign for the student-led "NVC Youth Challenge," it reports receiving 294,000 yen against a goal of 250,000 yen. Project and financial reports from fiscal 2013 onward are also published.
Key points
- Based in Niigata, supporting education and scholarships for children in Vietnam
- Several ways for citizens to get involved, including a scholarship supporter program recruiting 10 people each year
- Project and financial reports from fiscal 2013 onward are published on the website
Why this organization's work stands out
Its work looks beyond overseas support to community building in Niigata and creating places for young people to take on challenges. It is a useful reference for how people in regional areas can take part in international cooperation.
There are many ways to get involved, including scholarship supporters, members, volunteers and corporate partnerships, and the site speaks to people who want to start something even without special knowledge or experience.
Editor's comment
It feels like grounded work that supports children's learning around the world from Niigata. The student staff leading their own challenges are also impressive.
Up-to-date information on scholarship supporters and events is on the official website. If you are curious, please take a look.