Kids are often overlooked when it comes to volunteering. We see their value and accept volunteers ages 12-17 to work in a Leadership Program followed by a service trip to a developing country. Our program exposes them to the problems of the world so that one day they can help create the solutions.
1) "In April of 2016, I went to Rivas, Nicaragua on a service trip with CGA. It was an experience that changed my perspective, my personality, and nearly every other aspect of my life. On the trip, I got a taste of what it is like to be selfless, to put the needs of others in front of my own, although I have yet to fully understand selfless. I felt what it was like to look at someone and see the challenges they have faced, and then see happiness and gratitude evoked from something I have done for them. In Eagle, Colorado, I have lived without hunger, hopelessness, or not having a place to sleep. On top of that, I live 20 minutes away from a world-class ski resort. Therefore, I believe that it is very important for me to support those who are not as fortunate as I. To help someone in need is a humbling act, and that is what I want to do most on another trip with CGA. I also hope to learn more about the people and culture of a country, gain wisdom, and gain a better understanding about what it means to be selfless." 13 years old CGA Leadership Program participant 2016
2) "There is not a day that goes by or even an hour that I don't think about the children at CHA. I miss their smiles, the best hugs in the world, and their beautiful amazing personalities. Every time I think about David, Dina, Witchka, Taupe, Sok-Nee, and all the other little reasons for living, I smile. They each have a chunk of my heart and it can never be replaced by anything or anyone else! I love them so much! I cannot thank Lisamarie Howell-founder of Children's Global Alliance enough for this oppurtunity of a lifetime! I feel as if the memories I created are engraved in head and heart forever and the lessons I learned, will remain with me.
Anna - 13 year old CGA Leadership Program participant 2011
3) "From the moment Anna heard about this opportunity to travel to Cambodia with CGA and work in an orphanage, she knew she wanted to be part of it. Lisamarie Howell founder of CGA, did not miss one detail! The fundraising on an individual basis as well as the group effort to raise funds, educating the group of students on what to expect and the history of the area - the students were well prepared for this life changing journey. Not only did the experience affect the amazing children at CHA, but the positive impact it had on the volunteer students was incredible to see! Thank you LM for all you do!"
Jana & Steve-Parents of a CGA Leadership Program participant 2011
4) "Survival mode-24 hours a day, every day of the year. These 10 days we've been here…the kids have been able to step out of survival mode and enjoy life. During these 10 days we lightened their load…instead of sweeping the floors and mopping, they got to play soccer with Tabor and Jack. Instead of sitting alone in the corner, they got to color and draw with Kassie, Anna and Nina. The kids love our kids. As a token of appreciation, they've created handmade bracelets and rings for us. In turn, we've supplied them with fresh fruit , veggies, and tons of love. For the orphanage children, it will be back to survival mode on Saturday…it kills me to think about this. I feel the sadness throughout my body; it's overwhelming as I sit here on the computer. I breathe. I shed a tear. I breathe again. I will come back. This is only the beginning." Jen - Volunteer Chaperone, Cambodia 2011
To infuse the next generation with a sense of global responsibility, promote and foster character and integrity among teenagers, and provide relief and education in developing countries.
Children's Global Alliance (CGA) is a nonprofit organization that works with young people ages 12-16 to build leadership skills, foster character and integrity and become global-minded responsible citizens. This 501(c)(3) organization was established in 2010, operating out of Vail, Colorado. Students admitted to the program go through a rigorous selection process before being immersed in an 8-month leadership development program which concludes with travel to one of the targeted developing countries: Cambodia, Nicaragua, Tanzania, Nepal, or Morocco. Students work in a school for children with disabilities and in orphanages directly effecting over 500 children and families per year in the United States and developing countries (greatnonprofits.org, 2013).
The organization primarily relies on private donations from individuals, corporations and foundations to fund its operations and volunteer experiences. Since its inception, the organization has more than quadrupled its income from fundraising (Guidestar.org, 2013). As a result, the number of student participants (primarily from Colorado) has increased from 5 in 2010 to 52 in 2018. In 2013 Children's Global Alliance was recognized as a Top-Rated Award winner from greatnonprofits.org.
CGA operates under the guidance of a volunteer board of six directors from across the country and from diverse backgrounds including a medical doctor, registered nurse, lawyer, and two teachers. Lisa-Marie Howell, CGA Founder and Executive Director, serves on the board as a non-voting member. The board of this volunteer agency is very engaged and fully supported (100% are donors). The number of students participating in the Leadership Program and Service Learning Trips has grown to 52 for the current year; children in six countries on three continents are being influenced and helped by these future American leaders.
For the last nine years this organization has operated entirely with volunteers. The Board of Directors has agreed it is time to bring CGA to the next level. We are reaching out to Colorado-based funders to invest in CGA to help strengthen its infrastructure in order to continue and expand opportunities, to inspire youth, and enrich communities both here and abroad.
Organization name
Children's Global Alliance, Inc.
other names
CGA
2010
Tax id (EIN)
27-2179046
Category
Youth Development
Organization Size
Small Organization
Address
20 Eagle RoadMailing
2121 N. Frontage Road W. #176Eagle County, CO, US