| Abstract: International centers for autism and applied behavior analysis service delivery have long been sites for volunteers and clinicians looking for a short-term volunteer opportunity. This training has been shown to hinder growth of ABA centers, as conflicting methodologies and training protocols are often implemented. There is large procedural drift from training when short term trainers enter a city, center, or school. Additionally, gifts of materials and toys can develop paternalism, take away from the local economy, and dismiss cultural relevance. Revolving door volunteers are unable to offer their expertise in a way that is meaningful to their center. Experience has shown that short-term volunteer opportunities are reinforcing for the volunteer, yet detract from training received in international programs. Experts in the field who work directly with children can draw away from the training previously in place at the center or school. In order to increase cultural humility and gains in program development and implementation, sustainable practices must be implemented. The Global Autism Project has implemented a protocol for sustainable training methodologies, with short-term intensive training on the ground, as well as follow-up training throughout the year. This follow up is what differentiates sustainable training from short-term "voluntourism." |