World Vision Foundation of Thailand organized a “Volunteer Capacity Building Training” for World Vision volunteers in its development project areas in Sa Kaeo Province. A total of 40 World Vision volunteers participated in the training to enhance their knowledge, skills, and understanding of child, family, and community development. The program aimed to strengthen their readiness to work effectively with vulnerable children within a development framework that emphasizes participation, equality, and child protection.
The training was designed to cover essential knowledge and practical competencies required for community development work at the local level. A key component of the program was the Empowered World View (EWV) approach, a transformational learning process that encourages personal change from within by reflecting on attitudes, values, and beliefs. The approach seeks to inspire individuals to improve themselves, their families, and their communities in a sustainable manner.
Volunteers learned how to apply EWV principles in their work with children and families by promoting the recognition of individual potential, self-reliance, and community resilience. These elements are critical to reducing vulnerability and improving quality of life over the long term.
In addition, participants received training on GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) to deepen their understanding of diversity, reduce social biases, and strengthen inclusive approaches in community development. The training highlighted the importance of ensuring equal opportunities and meaningful participation for all groups, particularly children and families facing social barriers and limited access to opportunities.
Another key topic covered was Child Protection, which is a core standard in the work of the World Vision Foundation of Thailand. Participants gained knowledge about children’s rights, forms and indicators of child abuse, violence prevention measures, and proper reporting procedures in line with child protection principles. This equipped volunteers to identify risks, prevent harm, and refer vulnerable children to appropriate support services when necessary.
Throughout the training, participants also took part in practical activities focused on Leadership in All Situations, a process designed to strengthen analytical thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Through scenario-based exercises reflecting real community contexts, volunteers had opportunities to practice leadership skills in challenging situations.
The learning environment was highly participatory, encouraging all volunteers to share experiences, develop action plans, and apply leadership skills to various scenarios. These competencies are particularly important for supporting vulnerable children and families in diverse community settings.
Volunteer representatives reflected that the training provided a deeper understanding of their role as community volunteers, especially in recognizing the value and potential of every child equally. They also gained a stronger appreciation of the importance of child protection, which remains at the heart of effective community development work.
World Vision Foundation of Thailand believes that the 40 volunteers who completed this capacity-building program will play a vital role in advancing child, family, and community development across their respective areas. As change agents, advocates for participation, and members of community-based child protection networks, they will help create a safer, more inclusive, and equitable society where no one is left behind.
