Research has shown, and we strongly support this opinion, that short-term foreign volunteers coming and going to projects with children will eventually have a damaging effect on the children they work with. Whilst the intention from these volunteers mostly comes from a good place, it can cause issues with attachment and identity within the children. It’s better for the development of children and teenagers to be taught and taken care of by local professionals who can work with them for the long term, that speak their own language, and that can relate to them in cultural, religious and political ways. Unfortunately many under-resourced areas and (post)conflict areas have little to no possibilities for local role models to participate in education or training for their professional development. To fill that gap, Train for Change looks to train in these locations and offers free training to help local (aspiring) professionals to improve their skills and knowledge and make that change. 

The content of our trainings derives from evidence-based articles and books, practical experience in the field of education and mental health, certified courses and from feedback from trainees and colleagues. 

Interventions are developed in collaboration with other professionals in the field, making use of different existing evidence-based practices combined with developing new exercises and psycho-education that are examined in the field. 

After completing one or more of our trainings, workshops or interventions, trainees will receive a certificate of completion. We are however still working on getting our trainings globally officially accredited. 

There are various ways in which you can help. Donations in any kind are always welcome and greatly appreciated since they allow us to provide our services for free in under-resourced communities. On this page you can learn more about how you can contribute.