Via

Via Profile and History

VIA (formerly Volunteers in Asia) is a private, non-profit, non-religious organization dedicated to increasing understanding between the United States and Asia through service and education. Since its founding at Stanford University in 1963, VIA has sent more than 1,600 volunteers and program participants from the US to live, work, learn and collaborate in 15 Asian countries through its Asia Progr ams, while bringing more than 4,000 students from Asia to the United States to participate in experiential education and cross-cultural engagement through its Silicon Valley Programs. We currently offer long-term and summer programs in Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. Our Silicon Valley Programs offer a wide range of short-term, international study programs between the US and Asia and among various Asian nations. We currently offer five short-term spring programs and six summer programs for students focused on a variety of themes, including language and culture, global leadership, social innovation, and healthcare. VIA is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, with offices currently in San Francisco and Stanford, California, and some staff in Asia. Its annual operating budget is approximately $3M. VIA is supported by devoted alumni and an active Board with 14 Directors. Funding for VIA comes from program fees, foundations, individuals, and endowment income.