VIDES Kenya is an autonomous unit of VIDES international. VIDES started in Italy in 1983 as an NGO offering volunteer services, especially for women and children. The initials stand for:
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VIDES Kenya takes its inspiration from VIDES U.K., but its fully autonomous in matters pertaining to administration. VIDES is a branch of the Salesians of Don Bosco, a Catholic charitable organisation started by Saint John Bosco.
History
VIDES Kenya operates under the Salesian Sisters of Daughters of Mary Help of Christians of Dagoretti to enhance development and education of the young internationally.
The organisation began in Namanga, Kenya, in 2000, with nine members who had joined together with VIDES U.K. volunteers to organize a children's camp. The group now reaches out to many young people in Kenya, including in Dagoretti, Embu, Marsabit,and Namanga.
Participants include volunteers from various institutions of higher learning, members of the diaspora, and local youth. The current membership is over 150.
Volunteering
VIDES volunteers undergo training to become full volunteers by a preventive system of education initiated by the patron Saint. Every year the Rector Major of the Salesians releases the gift of the year to be incorporated into the education of the young everywhere in the world.