Hope Development Volunteers began in 2009 as a project of Beacon of Hope Uganda referring volunteers only to partners of BoHU. In 2009, based on demand for its services (non-profit needs of volunteers and desire for volunteers to come to Africa), Hope Development Volunteers expanded its scope to include all organizations in Uganda. At this time, Hope Development Volunteers became incorporated under Hope Development Volunteers Inc. Ltd and expanded its services to include other countries in Africa.

Hope Development Volunteers was founded and has flourished on the belief that volunteers not only enhance the programs they assist, but also benefit from the experience in several ways. They gain a broader perspective of the needs of Africa and its people, become more informed and more active advocates for the betterment and often improve their skills or learn new ones.