The Heart of Service Vacations: Engaging with Communities

Guest Kimberly Haley Coleman – The Set Me Free Project

In this episode, Stephanie Olson sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, to explore the evolving world of volunteer abroad programs and ethical service vacations. Kimberly discusses Globe Aware’s mission to create meaningful, community-driven volunteer experiences in over 25 countries, emphasizing cultural immersion, safety, and long-term local impact.

The conversation covers how global volunteerism has changed, why understanding local needs is essential, and how volunteers contribute through sustainable projects that support local staff and economies. Kimberly also addresses common criticisms of international volunteering, highlights the importance of women’s leadership in global communities, and explains how service abroad often inspires lifelong civic engagement at home.

Kimberly Haley-Coleman is the Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, a U.S. and Canada-based nonprofit leading short-term volunteer service projects worldwide since 2000. With an MBA in International Business and a background in global finance and development, Kimberly has held leadership roles at organizations including CNBC.com and Space Services International. She is a longtime leader in international volunteer programs, a guest lecturer at SMU, a Texas Business Hall of Fame Award recipient, and an active board member with global nonprofit and community development organizations.