Over the past eight years, AVID has sponsored over 150 American professionals to assist host organizations in nineteen countries. Currently most AVID assignments are in the Balkans, though the program does include other areas of the world. AVID is funded through grants from public and private organizations. There really is no typical volunteer. While volunteers must have two years of professional experience that relates to their assignment, most have at least 5 years and many have 20-30 years of experience.
Most volunteers have prior overseas living experience and some have local language skills.
One thing all volunteers have in common is a sense of adventure and an eagerness to share their expertise with their counterparts abroad. AVID's goal is to transfer needed skills from an experienced professional to your organization. The volunteer will provide training and expertise in whichever area you request. It really is up to you. The important part is to choose key areas that need strengthening at your organization and to work with the volunteer to develop these areas.