"Maybe some people destroyed this world, but in our hearts it is forever lovely. Memories do not burn, they stay hidden in our heart like the biggest secret."  -- Written by Zelijka, 13 yrs. old at GCO's "Island to Island" Summer Camp		Global Children's Organization (GCO) nurtures children traumatized by intolerance, terrorism, or war by providing summer camps and on-going programs which prepare both children and volunteers to be active participants in building a peaceful world. Since 1993, GCO has reached out to children caught in the cross-fire of community violence and in the aftermath of war to help them develop friendships and build trust across cultural boundaries. Children's spirits and hearts can be restored and they can again have hope. The children are our future... Their future is in your hands.

WHO WE ARE

Since 1993, the Global Children's Organization has provided summer programs to children who have suffered as innocent victims of regional violence.  Our programs are planned, developed and implemented in collaboration and partnership with members of the communities we serve. Staffed by volunteers from around the world,  GCO programs for children in the Balkans, from Northern Ireland and from troubled, violence-ridden neighborhoods of Los Angeles have been inspired by the vision that peace is a possibility, that hope is powerful and that what we do now does indeed matter.

WHAT WE DO

GCO enables children living in daily proximity to war, intolerance or community violence to reclaim a part of their childhood as they experience the safe and healing environment of our summer programs.  GCO creates a safe haven and provides opportunities for play, creative self-expression and friendship. Children who may hold polarized and antagonistic views toward one another participate in a community at camp that respects differences, values collaborative effort and models non-violent resolution of conflict.  As participants live and learn alongside one another in a safe, nurturing environment, hearts, minds and souls are opened to understanding, trust and hope.

VOLUNTEERING WITH GCO

Volunteering for our camps is fulfilling on many levels. GCO’s international camps offer a unique opportunity to work directly with children in need, as part of a supportive and team-oriented experience. The immersion into these different cultures is enriching and increases cultural sensitivity. To enhance this effort, volunteers from the U.S. and other countries work together with “in-country” staff, forming “families” within the larger camp. The camps enable volunteers to make a meaningful and memorable contribution to the global community within a short time while the memories and connections can last a lifetime.

Volunteer Gable Carr with Kids

GCO is exploring adaptation of our unique camp model to other international settings and locations and with various age groups.  New camp projects will be developed based on 1) assessment of current needs in a given area, and 2) potential for collaboration with local individuals and organizations in planning and implementation of programs.

As a non-governmental, non-denominational, non-profit organization, GCO relies on the compassion and generosity of its donors, whose tax-deductible contributions assure us of continuing to spread healing to children around the world. 

Global Children’s Organization encourages the international community to join us in giving children hope.

3580 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1800
Los Angeles Ca 90010
Phone:  (310) 581-2234
Fax:  (213) 389-1237
gco@globalchild.org