How Short-term International Volunteer Travel Can Foster Global Understanding

Culture Encounters Podcast: Kimberly Haley-Coleman on Transformative Volunteer Travel (Part One)

In this special episode of the Culture Encounters Podcast, host Chad sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Executive Director of Globe Aware, to explore how short-term international volunteer travel can foster global understanding and meaningful cultural exchange.

This is Part One of a two-part conversation that dives into Kimberly’s personal journey, the founding of Globe Aware, and how immersive service experiences are helping bridge cultures around the world.

From Vision to Global Impact

With a background in international business and a passion for cross-cultural connection, Kimberly Haley-Coleman founded Globe Aware with a clear mission: to create ethical, community-driven volunteer travel programs that support local initiatives while offering participants authentic cultural immersion.

In this episode, she shares:

• How Globe Aware began and evolved into a global nonprofit organization
• The importance of sustainable volunteer programs
• Why cultural immersion matters in today’s interconnected world
• How short-term volunteer vacations can create long-term impact

What Makes Volunteer Travel Transformational?

Unlike traditional tourism, international volunteer programs focus on serving alongside local communities rather than simply visiting them. Kimberly discusses how these experiences encourage participants to step outside their comfort zones, gain new perspectives, and build relationships rooted in dignity and mutual respect.

Through projects in over 25 countries, Globe Aware emphasizes:

• Community-led development
• Ethical volunteer tourism
• Cultural understanding and global citizenship
• Service learning experiences for adults and families

These programs are designed to benefit both host communities and volunteers, creating, as Kimberly describes, a true “win-win” model of global engagement.

Why Cultural Exchange Matters Now More Than Ever

In a time when division often dominates headlines, initiatives like Globe Aware highlight the power of human connection. By shining a light on diverse cultures and uplifting local voices, volunteer travel becomes more than a trip; it becomes a bridge.

Kimberly’s insights in this episode remind us that meaningful change often begins with showing up, listening, and working side by side.