The Chinese International Volunteer Organization (CIVO) is a non-profit organization founded on October 5, 2016 by a group of Chinese international students from Western University. The organization’s founding purpose is to assist international students in making a smooth transition into Canadian culture. CIVO not only encourages these students to learn about the local culture, but also empowers them to make a positive impact on society through volunteering with local partner organizations. In addition, CIVO holds its own volunteer events to further participants’ knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of local and global communities. CIVO further seeks to educate students on Canadian and Chinese cultural practices in an effort to bridge the gap between International and Canadian students. CIVO believes that youth should be encouraged to discuss social issues in their communities and assume social responsibility in their daily lives. As an organization created by students, CIVO supports youth in pursuing their own dreams and passions to make their own impact on society.
