VIA (originally Volunteers in Asia) began in 1963 with a group of 23 Stanford students led by Dean of Freshmen Men, Dwight Clark assisting Chinese refugees with recreational programs and road repairs in Hong Kong.

Since then, VIA has initiated a journey for young people who are poised to lead their generation and explore new approaches to addressing social issues while developing friendships that transcend cultural differences. To date, VIA has sent over 2,000 individuals to learn and serve in communities in Asia, including mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Additionally, VIA has brought more than 7,300 students and professionals to Silicon Valley from Japan, South Korea, mainland China, Macau, Hong Kong, and Taiwan as well as other regions of Asia and beyond.

In this increasingly interconnected world, building mutual understanding and cross-cultural empathy remains as critical as ever. Through Asia and US-based experiential learning opportunities, VIA provides a launch pad for its participants to discover their potential and their passion for sustaining a lifetime of positive impact as global social impact leaders.

Alumni Gatherings & Celebration Events

Click the event headings below to learn more & register!

Seattle Alumni Gathering
September 10 (Sun) 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Seattle, WA

Tokyo Alumni Gathering (Sept)
September 30 (Sat) 3:00-5:00 PM
Shibuya, Tokyo (Commune @ PARCO Rooftop Park)

Tokyo Alumni Gathering (Oct)
October 12 (Thurs) from 7:00 PM
Shibuya, Tokyo (Meet at WeWork Iceberg)

60th Anniversary Gala
October 21 (Sat) 5:00-8:00 PM
Palo Alto, CA