About us

At IICD we are involved with the big issues of our time and the future of mankind on our planet.

Two issues jump out. One issue is the growing gap between rich and poor and how structural violence plunge more and more people into poverty every day, while large corporations gather record profits. The other issue is the mounting consequences of man-made global warming and climate change, which along with the end of fossil fuel will change our lives dramatically in the coming decades and possibly threaten our very survival. These consequences will hit the poorest people the hardest. These are huge issues that we can only move by being organized and working together. 

Through our programs, we dig into the big issues of our time, we investigate inclusive and sustainable solutions and dare to dream about a future for We the People. Our programs include a service period, where we travel to Africa or Latin America to work side by side with The Poor in securing basic human needs - such as education, health, water, food production, and fighting HIV/AIDS.

More than 25 years of experience in global education

Since 1987 IICD has trained over a 1,500 volunteers who have taken part in community development projects in Africa and South America.

IICD is located in Western Massachusetts on 300 acres of forest land within the beautiful Swiss Meadows.

The American author Cornelia Parker owned the property in the 1930's and 40's. She chose the name because the 300 acres of forestland-slopes reminded her of the Swiss Alps she loved. The site would later be used for a prep school, ski resort, vacation retreat, and meditation center. IICD took over the property in 1987.

The location inspires plenty of outdoor life. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a basketball court and a small field for various group sports. In the winter you can ski on  both the property or the nearby slopes of Jiminy Peak and Brodie mountains. Hiking is wonderful during all seasons, and the Appalachian Trail passes close-by.

In this beautiful physical setting you will find people of many nationalities and from different walks of life, all who have joined IICD with a desire to develop the world and themselves. In this international learning community there is plenty of room for any one who wishes to volunteer in one way or another.