Over the past couple months we've gained a lot of new followers. If you are new to The Village Link (TVL) then this post is for you! We wanted to take a minute to re-introduce ourselves, give you an overview of our programs, approach and what we're all about.
TVL is made up of a team of individuals divided by continents, cultures, time zones, generations and languages. Yet, we are united in our belief that sustainable development happens when there access to basic education, technical resources and vocational training intersects with job creation. We share a common vision and mission for the world.
Founded as a 501(c)3 in 2012 by a Sierra Leone Return Peace Corps Volunteer, Silicon Valley venture investor and attorney, TVL bridges the gap between non-profit and for profit, providing an innovative approach to economic development in rural communities.
OUR VISION
A world with less poverty, more fiscal opportunity and self-sustaining communities within some of the worlds most underserved communities.
OUR MISSION
To reduce poverty: by empowering and facilitating economic development and sustainability in underserved communities through entrepreneur mentorship and providing access to literacy, education and vocational programs.
Our programs aim to help the United Nations achieve the following sustainability development goals:
- GOAL 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
- GOAL 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning for all.
- GOAL 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
- GOAL 8: Decent work and economic growth.
- GOAL 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure.
- GOAL 10: Reduced inequalities.
- GOAL 11: Sustainable cities and communities.
- GOAL 17: Partnerships for the goals.
CORE PROGRAMS
Early childhood education program lessons taught with the aid of technology.
Early Childhood Development
Long lasting sustainable development starts early, planting the seed for tomorrows growth. In this program children are taught basic education, introduced to technology as a learning aid and the importance of proper health and hygiene. Our instructors are certified teachers in early childhood education who work very hard in making education fun and interactive for kids of all ages and backgrounds in the community. This program encourages parental participation and we have elders in the community who volunteer to bring cultural custom education so old customs and culture are not lost. Learn more.
TVL's female instructor, Anita teaching the high school senior class in Golu.
Digital Literacy Education & Vocational Training
Today our world is connected more than ever with the power of technology bringing education and job opportunities to the most remote places on earth. Here we are building the foundation for rural youth to create a career in the global digital workforce. Students learn the basics of digital literacy, Microsoft Office, Google and all about the internet. In 2018 we have plans to provide online vocational programs that will lead successful candidates to paid outsourced digital work opportunities through our training and technical partners. Learn more.
Our pilot program is located in a agriculturally rich part of Sierra Leone, with majority of its residents being palm oil and rice farmers. In addition to bringing innovative solutions to economic development we also look for ways we can leverage the community strengths. In 2018 we are putting focus and energy on helping the farming community learn new techniques and open distribution channels for them to turn their subsistence farming into an income generating tool.
Click to here to read more about our past programs and projects.
Stay connected with us to keep up to date on our programs, growth and future plans.