Global Citizens Network

Specialties

Global Citizens Network (GCN) recognizes the interdependence of people around the world. Social and economic injustice, racial and ethnic inequality, and ecological loss affect all people. But through cooperative effort, individuals of all cultures can enhance their ability to make a difference locally and globally.

To foster that cooperation, GCN partners with indigenous and/​or marginalized peoples throughout the world. Participants immerse themselves in the culture and daily life of the partner community. Each volunteer team work side-​by-​side the local people or organization in community-​initiated projects. This unique approach has enabled GCN to create a worldwide network of people and organizations committed to addressing global issues.

Global Citizens Network has recently added to their scope of work. We are now offering Spanish classes and a film and speaker series. These classes were formerly delivered by La Conexion de Las Americas and feature native Spanish speaking teachers.

History

Established in 1992.

With 22 years of experience providing cross-​cultural trips for globally-​minded participants, GCN provides a truly unique travel experience emphasizing understanding and service learning.

Strong partnerships with host communities: GCN nurtures mutually beneficial, trusting relationships with indigenous communities around the world. Strong relationships are made possible by mutual respect.

Multigenerational teams: GCN participants are aged 8 and above. More than half of GCN’s trip participants travel with family, including children. Partner communities value and welcome strong family relationships. Each GCN team is led by a trained and experienced GCN team leader. Student, corporate and other civic groups are encouraged to apply. Custom trips are also available.

Meet the Manager

Linda S.

Manager

Sensing that she was not complete, Linda started traveling at age 16 in search of something that might make her whole. What began as a senior class eco-​tour to Dominica has turned into Linda’s life work as an advocate for respectful cross-​cultural encounters and responsible travel.

In 1996 Linda went to Nicaragua as an international observer of the presidential elections. She studied abroad in Ecuador on the University of MN’s Minnesota Studies in International Development (MSID) program for one year. Passionate about community development and motivated by GCN’s mission, Linda led her first GCN team to Llanos de Morales, Guatemala in 1999.

In 2001, Linda and her husband put their six month old daughter in a front-​pack and ventured off to Santiago, Chile. Linda studied at the University of Chile in the Masters of Arts in International Studies program. Linda and her family (+ another one on the way) returned to the states after receiving her MA in 2003.