The ICJA Freiwilligenaustausch weltweit e.V. was founded in 1949 as a reconciliation program between the USA and Germany. Today, the ICJA organizes volunteer exchange programs worldwide and has many years of experience in working with volunteers and partner organizations from over 40 countries on all continents.
The ICJA coordinates and implements a variety of volunteer programs, including:
The main mission of the ICJA is to promote respectful and open interactions between people from different cultures and backgrounds. The ICJA sees its exchange programs as educational offerings that enable participants to meet on equal terms, collaborate, and learn from each other. The association places particular emphasis on lived solidarity and practical peace work[3][4].
The ICJA is committed to various areas to promote sustainability and social responsibility:
The ICJA has received the QUIFD certificate for "Quality in Voluntary Service," which is based on ten carefully defined quality aspects. Additionally, the ICJA is a member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) and has been awarded the title of Peace Ambassador of the United Nations through its work[2][4].
The ICJA is a non-profit association based on voluntary work. The office in Berlin and a branch in Frankfurt coordinate the work of the association. The board, consisting of four members, leads the work of the association on behalf of the delegates' assembly. The ICJA is also recognized as an independent provider of youth welfare according to § 75 KJHG and works closely with various national and international networks[3].
The ICJA offers comprehensive support for volunteers, including visa applications, insurance, and educational guidance during the volunteer service. Through its many years of experience and stable partnerships with European and non-European partners, the ICJA ensures high quality in its programs and services[2][3].
