The Educo International Alliance

The Educo International Alliance (EIA) is a network of organizations that focuses on leadership development and character building for young people around the world. Programs and projects are enriched through direct and indirect experience with the wilderness as teacher and classroom. With talented and dedicated people leading our organizations and a proven track record, the Educo International Alliance is well positioned to solidify and expand our work.

History

Educo was born in Canada in 1969. The word “educo” is from the Latin root word for education, meaning, “to lead or draw forth” It describes our belief that education is a process of drawing forth the inherent qualities of character from our students. In 1988 Educo Colorado was formed. Over the next few years Educo Colorado conducted leadership programs with young people in the US, Brazil, South Africa, Botswana, India, Russia, Tajikistan, Australia, and France. Alumnae of these programs approached us to help establish Educo in their respective countries. In 1994, immediately after the election of Nelson Mandela, Educo Africa was incorporated. In quick succession, Educo programs were established in Brazil and Bulgaria. In 2003 the German NGO “GFE Erlebnistage e.V.” joined. In 2012 the Chinese NGO “JUMP! Foundation” joined.

Organizational Structure

In 1995 we recognized the need to formalize the relationship among Educo organizations in order to share resources, set high standards, and promote development internationally. Directors and board members from around the world gathered met for this purpose 4 times between 1995 and 2000. In March of 2002, we convened again to formalize an organizational structure and take the next steps in our development. It was agreed that the EIA will be governed by a board comprised of the Executive Directors and an elected representative from each Educo member organization. The governing board will hire and supervise a director to lead the activities of EIA.

Educo Programs Worldwide

Educo is incorporated and curently conducts programs in South Africa, Brazil, Bulgaria, Germany, Canada, and the US. Educo programs address the needs of adults as well as young people. These programs help participants learn from their experience, incorporating time and tools for personal observation and reflection. Activities such as backpacking, mountaineering, rock climbing, environmental education, journal work, and other self reflective exercises serve as vehicles for learning leadership and team skills. Educo teaches that each of us is a leader because each of us interacts with, and influences the people and world around us. We do not have the option to accept or reject the responsibilities of leadership in the interconnected world we have created together, each of us is a leaders, and Educo helps us to recognize our potential.