Learn how REI builds people to build nations
We send long-term staff and short-term professionals
to train leaders in emerging countries so that they
can train others – building their nations and
bringing hope to future generations.
The work of REI is diverse in each emerging nation where we focus. Through education and medicine, business and agriculture, our highly skilled staff are training and developing others in nine locations in Asia and Africa.
As a non-profit, our organization and staff are financially supported by monthly and annual donations. Give today to be a part of building people to build nations!
REI staff and apprentices partner long-term in nine locations in Asia and Africa, and volunteers take annual short-term trips. If your professional goals for international development match ours, come with us!
August 19, 2025
by Maryellen Morgan, Director of Recruiting, HQ
What do a 20-year-old college student, a 37-year-old engineer and a 53-year-old college professor have in common? This may sound like the start of a joke, but for me, as REI’s director of recruiting, it’s a question that holds deep significance.
It’s part of my job to know facts, statistics and characteristics about generations from Gen Z (1997-2012) to Millennials (1981-1996) to Gen X (1965-1980) and Boomers (1946-1964), in terms of those who are considering serving overseas. What draws them to global work? What concerns them about it? How do they prefer to hear about opportunities? When are they most likely to make a decision to relocate overseas? And most importantly, what does this information mean for REI? . . .
Every item in our store helps advance REI’s mission to advance communities around the world through training emerging leaders in strategic sectors like agriculture, business, medicine and more.
When you wear our gear or sip from an REI mug, you're not just showing support - you’re sparking conversations, sharing stories and making a tangible impact.
Make your everyday purchases count for something bigger.
People of emerging nations filled with hope
as their countries are developed and their lives transformed
East Java, Indonesia