Tools for Self Reliance is a UK based charity, established 35 years ago and our mission is to contribute to poverty reduction in Africa by working with partner organisations and our supporters in the UK to empower people to build viable and sustainable livelihoods through the delivery of technical, business and life skills training and through the provision of tools for their trades.From our workshops in Southampton, we collect and refurbish used tools and sewing machines, reclaim timber for packing cases and aim to send 5-6 shipments each year to our projects in Africa. At the headquarters in Southampton, we have 5 full time staff and 3 part time as well as 130+ volunteers.Our objectives for this project are to offer the opportunity for the young volunteers to experience intercultural and inter generational learning through their volunteering. At Tools for Self Reliance, due to the nature of our work, we attract a diverse group of daily volunteers who support us in our work to sort the tools, refurbish tools, make packing crates for the kits, and work on the sewing machines. These volunteers have a wealth of experience in these areas but also have many years life experiences that they are happy to pass on to the younger generation. We recognise and value the opportunity for inter generational learning to take place as there are mutual benefits for both parties. The project is for 2 EVS volunteers. One of the volunteers we have offered the place to has Aspergers syndrome. The volunteer reports that this is a mild form of Aspergers but there are some social situations that can be problematic for him. Tools for Self Reliance has a varied group of volunteers from differing backgrounds and the tasks are carried out in a non formal setting which the volunteer states will suit him. They also wanted to carry out their EVS in an English speaking country as he plans to study to be an English teacher on his return to Denmark. The volunteer wants to learn to live independently and all that this entails. He has limited experience in a work environment and he wants to learn these important skills during his EVS. In his opinion, his Aspergers won't affect his learning or working as part of a team etc but he says "it will be interesting to find out". From the contact that the EVS coordinator has had with the volunteer, we feel that he is a positive role model for someone with additional needs and it creates a learning opportunity for all involved and from which we can all benefit.The second volunteer is successful in his academic studies and plans to return to education after his EVS year. He wanted to participate in a project that would extend his practical skills and have the opportunity to increase his broad interests in social affairs and global development. He chose Tools for Self Reliance as he likes our ethos of 'helping others by giving them the chance to help themselves'. He has had some involvement in work experience but he would like to 'extend those competencies and improve his abilities'. All tasks will necessitate working alongside people from other countries, people from diverse backgrounds, young people from local schools and colleges, adults with learning difficulties plus retired people from the local community and thus will meet objectives regarding cultural and inter generational diversity, understanding of learning styles, as well as gaining practical, problem solving and team working skills. The host organisation are responsible for ensuring that the tasks are meaningful, within the capabilities of the participants and are in line with objectives of the project as agreed with all parties. In each case, the task will be preceded by a basic introduction and an in depth health and safety induction, followed by an informal question and answer session to ensure understanding. Specific on the job training will then be provided, either by the Operations Manager or an experienced and trusted volunteer. A non formal 'hands on' approach is adopted, with volunteers being encouraged to work alongside others until they are confident and competent to work without close supervision. The EVS coordinator will monitor the volunteers learning development through the project and will evaluate the projects progress on a quarterly basis to ensure we have accurate information and to be able to use this information to assess the impact of the project on all involved.The desired impact for the volunteer is to provide the EVS volunteer with many opportunities for them to be left with a life long appreciation of cultural and inter generational differences and similarities. To continue to develop a practical and problems solving attitude to life along with improved language skills and an increase in their personal confidence and self esteem. All of these skills increase the young persons ability to secure sustainable employment for the future.