VIDES started in the United States in 1997 and has seen continuous growth since, allowing hundreds of young adult volunteers to serve in various parts of the world. VIDES+USA, operates from the Central Office in San Antonio, Texas and a Satellite Office in Haledon, New Jersey.
Vision: VIDES+USA a Catholic Volunteer Missioner Program offering opportunities to young adults, members, and sponsors to ACCOMPANY others by sharing time, talent, and treasure with a focus on children, youth, and women in poverty and vulnerable situations, so they can have access to new opportunities in education and development. We serve areas in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, South, Central and North America.
Values: Since 1877, the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters) have been a missionary Institute and since 1987 they have been providing service opportunities through VIDES to young adults - inviting them to be part of their world-wide missions.
As Members of VIDES, we serve:
In defense of human rights, particularly women and young children.
For the promotion of voluntary work at the local and international level.
In the support of children and their families.
In the formation of young volunteers to become active and responsible leaders.
VIDES International
VIDES International is a youth volunteering organization present in 42 countries and promoted by the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesians of Don Bosco). VIDES was founded in 1987 and inspired by the Salesian educative project.
Vision: To create a fraternal and responsible society based on the respect of each person’s dignity; a society made up of young people, living as active citizens, constantly seeking out the Common Good.
Mission: Promote youth volunteerism as an instrument for the development of young people and to build a fraternal and responsible society, respecting human rights and the common good in favor of a sustainable development. Since 2003 VIDES has been granted Special Consultative Status with ECOSOC of the United Nations.
VIDES’ Goals:
Offer to young people the experience of volunteering as a means for youth responsible leadership and citizenship.
Build a culture of solidarity and enhance the intercultural dialogue
Promote international cooperation and sustainable development
Actively participate at the United Nations fora in order to defend human dignity and to promote, in particular, the right of the child, youth and women with a specific focus on the right to education.