Learning through action; serving the young and the poor alongside Salesian communities around the world.

Who we are and what we do

Bosco Volunteer Action (BOVA) is the UK volunteering organisation of the Salesians of Don Bosco, a Catholic Religious order. It offers placements for adults to serve the young and the poor, living and working alongside Salesian communities around the world. In addition it supports and encourages methods of raising awareness of development issues.

This includes working with other groups who have had an "experience of poverty" and instances of development education (justice and peace) within youth ministry. In all aspects of BOVA's work there is a particular focus on providing a well-planned educational experience; stimulating, preparing and encouraging a continued involvement with development issues, faith in action and the Salesian family.

Outcomes in order of priority

1. Volunteer gives useful service to a Salesian Community

2. Volunteer learns about development issues through their service, stimulating an ongoing involvement on their return

3. Volunteer has an experience of faith in action, stimulating an ongoing faith journey on their return

4. Volunteer has an experience of the Salesian charism (style of prayer/work with the young/attitude), stimulating an ongoing involvement in the Salesian Family on their return.