Canadian Crossroads International

Published purpose

This project supports 770 volunteer placements, and aims to improve the economic and social well-being of the poorest, most marginalized and vulnerable people, especially women and girls, with a view to contributing to sustainable development goals in the target countries. In addition to increasing the participation of Canadians in international development, particularly in the areas of gender equality, economic growth and inclusive governance, the project also aims to strengthen the capacity of more than 60 local civil society organizations and government partners, 72% of which are women's rights organizations, to deliver stronger programming in the areas of women's rights, access to justice, reduction of gender-based violence, and economic empowerment and leadership. Project activities include : (1) developing organizational capacity building plans and initiatives on women's social inclusion, human rights and environmental sustainability for partners; (2) organizing pan-Canadian awareness campaigns and knowledge sharing activities focusing on women's rights, access to justice, violence against women, leadership, and economic and environmental justice; (3) creating special thematic funds to promote gender equality, economic empowerment, human rights, environmental sustainability and innovation; and (4) providing train to returned volunteers to continue to be champions of gender equality and advance women's rights after their placement.