Frequently Asked Questions  

How did JumpStart International begin?

Sean O’Sullivan, the founder of JumpStart, was a journalist covering the war in Iraq. He was moved by the courage, warmth, and openness of the Iraqi people and saw it as an opportunity to help those devastated by war to begin the process of rebuilding.

Why does JumpStart do this work?

JumpStart believes that we can help “build peace through prosperity” by creating opportunities for self-sufficiency for people in areas of oppression or conflict.

What does JumpStart want to achieve?

JumpStart’s vision is “to help forge a world of peace, economic opportunity, civil society, and mutual understanding for all people”. As a humanitarian organization JumpStart is dedicated to building peace through providing economic and educational opportunities for individuals and families to become self-sufficient.

How does JumpStart expect to reach this goal?

JumpStart implements employment and training programs through construction and engineering projects to build and rebuild sustainable communities, and provide opportunities for economic growth.

What does JumpStart believe in?

JumpStart works on the principle that it is neither possible nor desirable for charitable organizations to provide for the world's poor and disadvantaged - but it is possible and desirable for charitable organizations to help the world's poor and disadvantaged provide for themselves and other people throughout the world. Self-sufficiency is the only long-term answer.

Why do you hire only local people?

The program is designed to employ and provide economic opportunity to local people in areas of conflict and disaster. Offering employment to people in these areas will better able them to support their families and begin the cycle of economic recovery and financial independence.

How much money do the workers of JumpStart earn?

All workers are paid a living wage for the area in which they live. The engineering and foreman positions are also paid a living wage and may receive bonuses based on the attainment of goals and objectives for specific projects.

Who are the workers?

Our workers are local unemployed people in areas of extremely high unemployment – areas with unemployment rates often exceeding 50%. JumpStart helps to create opportunity for people seeking work to rebuild their lives, communities and support their families.

How do you recruit the local workers?

Local workers are recruited through community centers, schools, and word of mouth. JumpStart begins by building credibility and trust with the initial team of workers and they become our ambassadors for additional workers.

What other projects is JumpStart considering?

JumpStart has been approached to begin programs in various areas affected by conflict and natural disasters. As the organization grows and program designs are templated, JumpStart will consider working wherever we can serve effectively.

What type of work can volunteers expect to do?

JumpStart International has volunteers that come into the office to help with administrative work – researching for information and grants and offering their expertise in a variety of areas. Our volunteers have designed and launched this website, assisted in organizing data for audits, researched data to support and inform our overseas team, and organized photos, articles and information to be used for marketing materials and proposals. Our programs focus on engineering, project management, construction, and vocational training and we welcome experienced volunteers willing to support and lead programs.

Do you accept volunteers for overseas opportunities?

Yes, we welcome volunteers for programs and administrative support. Depending on the project, experience, and availability, we will place volunteers overseas.

How can I help?

Your donations of time and money will support our programs and allow us to expand our services. We recognize the strength of our friends and fellow ambassadors introducing JumpStart to their friends, associates, and funding sources. We greatly appreciate all of the support we are given.