LVIA – International Association of Lay Volunteers – is an association of solidarity and international cooperation that works to contribute to the overcoming of extreme poverty, to the realization of equitable and sustainable development and to dialogue between Italian and African communities.

LVIA was founded in 1966 in Cuneo by the priest-partisan Aldo Benevelli, inspired by the reforming thrust of the Second Vatican Council and the values of justice and peace. Since then, he has worked with professionalism and dedication to promote the principles of the common good and active and responsible citizenship.

LVIA is active in 10 African countries and in almost 60 years, in collaboration with international and local partners and with the support of thousands of supporters, has guaranteed water, health and food; improved family farming and natural resource management; it has strengthened small businesses and improved the quality of the environment; It has supported social inclusion and innovation for the benefit of millions of people.

During humanitarian crises, LVIA addresses emergencies to safeguard people’s lives and dignity and works to improve the capacities of local populations and institutions to deal with crises.

In Italy, it offers opportunities for education and active citizenship, training for international cooperation, trips to Africa, youth exchanges and creates inclusion paths in disadvantaged environments.

LVIA promotes interculture and volunteering as personal and social growth, works in schools and with young people, participates in campaigns for human rights and common goods.

LVIA has the support of thousands of citizens, foundations, companies, associations, regions and local authorities, the European Union, the UN, ministries and international cooperation agencies.

We are an NGO recognized and verified by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the European Union.

The Association is a founding member of FOCSIV – Volunteers in the World; LINK 2007 – Networking; COP – Consortium of Piedmontese NGOs.