KVT – an international peace organization

KVT, the Finnish Branch of Service Civil International, is a non-governmental organization that promotes peace, cooperation, equality and active citizenship. KVT was established in Finland in 1947, so we already have over 70 years of experience in promoting peace and organizing responsible grassroots volunteering projects! The first volunteers came to Finland to help rebuild Finnish Lapland after World War II.

KVT is the Finnish branch of Service Civil International (SCI), which was established in 1920. SCI is a volunteer organization dedicated to promoting a culture of peace by organizing international voluntary projects for people of all ages and backgrounds. There are SCI branches, groups and partner organizations in over 100 countries around the world.

What do we do?

KVT’s most important activity is organizing international short-term voluntary projects (workcamps) in Finland and sending volunteers to projects abroad – both short and long-term. KVT also organizes and participates in seminars and trainings and offers volunteering opportunities for asylum seekers and immigrants living in Finland.

KVT is run by volunteers working in various working groups and local groups. KVT works actively throughout the year. There are various ways to participate in KVT’s activities, please contact the office for further information.

Why volunteer?

Living and working together with people with different backgrounds helps volunteers break down their own barriers and prejudices. It allows them to experience a world of mutual respect and understanding.

International volunteering brings people together to work for a common goal in projects which benefit the local communities. Voluntary workcamps and long-term volunteering create new shared experiences and friendships between people of all ages and backgrounds. Volunteering is also a great way to be an active part of a society.