Volunteer Vacations That Transform Lives | Globe Aware

Volunteer Vacations That Transform Lives: Kimberly Haley-Coleman on the Ready Living Podcast

In a recent episode of the Ready Living Podcast, Kimberly Haley-Coleman, Founder and Executive Director of Globe Aware, shares how short-term international volunteer vacations are creating meaningful global impact-both for communities abroad and for the volunteers who serve.

Operating in more than 25 countries, Globe Aware leads structured, one-week volunteer programs rooted in ethical volunteering, local leadership, and community-driven service projects. Kimberly explains how these immersive service experiences go beyond traditional tourism, allowing participants to work alongside local communities as equals, building trust, dignity, and lasting relationships.

A central theme of the conversation is the power of “soft power” in international volunteer work. Rather than relying solely on policy or politics, volunteer travel fosters human connection, cultural understanding, and shared labor. These authentic relationships can counter fear, reduce dehumanization, and create ripple effects that extend far beyond a single week of service.

By participating in daily life-whether supporting education initiatives, community development projects, or local infrastructure efforts-volunteers often experience personal transformation. Many return home with a broadened worldview, deeper empathy, and a renewed commitment to global citizenship.

In addition to leading Globe Aware, Kimberly Haley-Coleman is a Southern Methodist University Guest Lecturer, Chairman of the Executive Board for the International Volunteer Programs Association (IVPA), and a recipient of the Texas Business Hall of Fame Award. She holds degrees from Emory University and advanced degrees in Art History and International Business, bringing a global perspective to her leadership in responsible volunteer travel.

If you’re curious about ethical volunteer travel, short-term service trips, and how international volunteer programs can reshape the way we see the world, this episode of the Ready Living Podcast is a must-listen.