Trinity College Civic Engagement Office
&
Trinity Volunteering Opportunities Forum
welcome you to
Civic Engagement in Trinity College Dublin
As Ireland’s premier University, Trinity College Dublin lives up to its
responsibility to serve society and the community through excellence,
inclusion and partnership in education, research and outreach. College
values its tradition of outreach, community engagement and social
responsibility. Voluntary activity, along with other forms of engagement
with the community, ensures an added insight into societal structures,
issues and problems. In addition to contributing to the resolution of
problems confronting society, such activity can offer students and staff
social, professional and other learning opportunities.
In light of this, it is the role of the Civic Engagement Officer in the Careers
Advisory Service to promote support and facilitate student and staff
voluntary activity. For further information, contact mcgrogar@tcd.ie.
Trinity Volunteering Opportunities Forum
Trinity Volunteering Opportunities Forum (TVOF) aims to promote
volunteering among Trinity staff and students, to provide a forum for
discussion of common volunteering issues and to promote collaboration
between Trinity and the wider community.
Annual Volunteering Fair
Monday 16 November
Volunteering whilst in College is a really rewarding way to spend your time.
It gives you the chance to make new friends, to learn new skills and, most
importantly, to make a difference.
There are currently five different volunteering societies on campus. They
are Suas, the Voluntary Tuition Programme, Trinity Vincent de Paul, Trinity
Free Legal Advice Centre and Student 2 Student peer support programme.
For more information, see www.tvof.tcdlife.ie.
List of Organisations
Volunteer Resources
1
Volunteer Centres Ireland
2
Volunteering Ireland
3
Comhlamh
Opportunities in Ireland
4
Barretstown
5
Ballymun Regional Youth Resource
6
Caring and Sharing Association
7
Depaul Ireland
8
Fighting Words
9
Focus Ireland
10
Friends of the Elderly
11
Irish Kidney Association (European Games 2010)
12
Irish Seal Sanctuary
13
Irish Wheelchair Association
14
Special Olympics Ireland
15
SVP Ozanam House & Sunshine Fund
16
Trócaire
Opportunities Abroad
17
A-Z Children’s Charity
18
Camara
19
European Voluntary Service
20
Habitat for Humanity
21
Operation Smile
22
Serve
23
Suas
24
Viatores Christ
25
Voluntary Service International
Volunteer Centres Ireland
Volunteer Centres Ireland (VCI) is the national organisation with
responsibility for developing volunteering nationally and locally, a mandate
approved and supported by the Department of Community, Rural and
Gaeltacht Affairs. We are a membership organisation, established by
volunteer centres to co-operate and network on any issue relating to
volunteer centres and volunteering in Ireland
The VCI website lets you search for volunteer opportunities according to f
where in the country you would like to volunteer, what type of time you
can give (including once-off availability) and what type of work interests
you. It will provide you with information on opportunities which suit you
and VCI will follow up with the community organisation or charity you
choose. For more, see www.volunteer.ie.
Volunteering Ireland
Volunteering Ireland is the National Volunteer Development Agency which
acts as a representative voice for volunteering in Ireland. It works to
inspire, promote, support and celebrates voluntary activity in Ireland as a
way of strengthening participative democracy and building social capital.
Volunteering Ireland also supports the work of Irish-based overseas
development agencies that involve volunteers in their work through a
number of initiatives.
Volunteering Ireland runs the Ireland Involved Awards which serve to
showcase, recognise and celebrate the work of outstanding volunteers
across the country.
Volunteering Ireland operates a volunteer centre service on the north side
of Dublin city. For more, see www.volunteeringireland.ie.
Comhlámh
Comhlámh is an organisation concerned with global development. Its
Volunteering options Programme aims to promote informed decision
making by potential volunteers and to develop good practice standards
among volunteer sending organisations. In doing so, Comhlámh hopes to
ensure that overseas volunteering has a positive impact for the volunteer,
the sending organisation, and the host organisation and community
whether the placement is short or long term.
The Volunteering Options website can take you through every step to
becoming a volunteer and includes a searchable database of over 120
organisaiton that offer volunteering placements in developing countries.
You will also find the Volunteer Charter online. This document contains
guiding principles and information to help you make an informed decision
and prepare you for your placement.
It is also worth remembering Comhlámh when you return from
volunteering abroad. They run ‘moving forward’ days for returned short
term volunteers and ‘coming home’ weekends for those who have spent
over 3 months volunteering abroad. These events can help you to process
your experience, meet like-minded people and show you opportunities to
stay involved in global development issues now that you are home.
For more, see www.volunteeringoptions.ie.
Friends of the Elderly
Category:
Older People
Location:
25 Bolton Street and in homes around Dublin
Dates:
Ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
No fixed deadline
Brief description of organisation:
Friends of the Elderly supports older people who live alone or who feel
socially isolated. We provide a volunteer home visitation programme and
we run activities for older people at our centre on Bolton Street.
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers visit older people at home, work in charity shop, help in office
to support older people, organise and attend events for older people
and/or engage in fundraising activities.
Costs
Not applicable.
Training & Support
We provide in-house training on our policies and systems.
Application Process
Volunteers are interviewed, references are checked, photo ID and proof of
address are sought, and volunteers are required to sign our code of
conduct. The length of the process varies and depends on the needs of our
service users at any given time.
Accessibility
Unfortunately, this opportunity is not accessible for persons with
disabilities.
Barretstown
Category:
Children’s Charity
Location:
Co. Kildare
Dates:
3/10 days on different dates throughout summer
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
Mid February
Costs
Volunteers don’t need to raise any money to come to Barretstown to
volunteer.
Training & Support
All volunteers are provided with training before the children/families arrive
on site. There is a high level of supervision by qualified staff at all times.
Brief description of organisation:
Barretstown is a specially-designed camp for children with serious
illnesses- primarily cancer and serious blood diseases- from Ireland, Britain
and throughout Europe, and their families.
Application Process
All volunteers are interviewed, reference and police checked. We conduct
group interviews here at Barretstown.
We provide a unique programme of adventure, activities and fun – backed
by the medical world - which helps children with serious illness regain their
confidence and self-esteem and has become internationally recognised as
having a profound and positive impact on their lives.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for people with disabilities.
The medical world calls our programme ‘therapeutic recreation’, but like
the campers, we know it as ‘Serious Fun’.
What do volunteers do?
A Volunteer Cara’s role is to relate positively to the children and young
people and their families, to accompany campers in their activities and
provide a fun atmosphere, support, leadership and encouragement.
Assigned to a small group of children or teenagers, volunteers encourage
and support them in all their activities, while making sure they're safe and
supervised at all times. Most importantly volunteers help the children to
have fun!
Ballymun Regional Youth Resource
Category:
Social / youth work / informal education
Location:
The Reco Youth Facility, Sillogue Road, Ballymun
Dates:
Various
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
March 31st 2010
Brief description of organisation:
Ballymun Regional Youth Resource (BRYR) is a youth work organisation
working for the welfare and development of 10-21 year-olds in Ballymun.
The core belief underpinning BRYR’s work is that every young person has
the power within themselves to live a positive life; that the environment in
which young people grow up shapes their development, and that positive
relationships with and between young people are at the heart of their
wellbeing. Activities include youth work (on-site and outreach), art, music,
drama, creative IT and sporting activities.
What do volunteers do?
For summer 2010, we have a variety of roles available, from leading sports
and outdoor activities to assisting our art workers on art and craft projects
(such as this summer’s urban art graffiti project). Other roles during our
summer project include helping to supervise outings in Dublin and beyond,
and working with young people through drama, art, music, games and IT at
our youth facility in Ballymun, the Reco.
Costs
None.
Training & Support
The Volunteer Support Worker oversees the recruitment and support of
volunteers and students on placement, both with BRYR and with youth
groups throughout Ballymun. Once you become a volunteer, there is a
support package in place including induction, regular training options,
individual supervision, recognition and regular volunteer group sessions.
BRYR’s TDVS team (Michelle, the Volunteer Support Worker and Laurence,
the Training & Development Officer) work with the volunteer team, both
as a group and individually, to ensure volunteers are continuously
supported, developed and challenged in the work they do.
Application Process
Volunteers joining us at BRYR undertake an initial recruitment process
which involves filling out an application form, attending an informal
interview with our Volunteer Support Worker, Garda Clearance/Vetting (a
Child Protection measure) and reference checks. This process can take up
to 8 weeks to complete in full, due to the slow turnaround of the Garda
clearance forms.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
Caring & Sharing Association
Category:
Disability/Social
Location:
Various locations around Dublin including
Swords, Malahide, Bray, Clontarf and Tallaght
Dates:
Year Round
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
none
Brief description of organisation:
CASA is a voluntary organization, established in 1981, whose goal is
develop friendships and social outlets for people with disabilities (both
physical and intellectual) through a variety of social activities. These
include regular social events, holidays, respite breaks, and pilgrimages to
Lourdes
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers attend social activities where they work on a one to one basis
with a CASA member. Volunteers can also do respite short respite breaks
in our house in Malahide. Activities during the respite break vary and can
include shopping, bowling, cinema and other such social pursuits. Our
monthly social activities are usually held on a Sunday in a hotel where
there is mass followed by lunch followed by music and dancing.
Volunteers are asked to commit to attending one social activity a month
between the hours of two and six. Respite breaks can be between 2 and 5
days.
Costs
There is no cost for attending monthly social activities. However if
volunteers want to go to the Lourdes they generally pay their own fare
(approx. €650).
Training & Support
Induction Training (2-3 hours), manual handling and health and safety
training is provided.
Application Process
Volunteers must complete an application form. They will be asked to
provide two referees and complete a Garda vetting form also. It usually
takes a few weeks to process this.
Accessibility
Please contact us directly on info@casa.ie for further details.
Depaul Ireland
Category:
Low threshold homeless services
Location:
Dublin City Centre
Dates:
Ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
February 2010 & June 2010
Brief description of organisation:
Depaul Ireland is part of Depaul International, the parent company of a
group structure which includes Depaul UK, Depaul Slovensko, Depaul
Kharkiv and Depaul USA. Depaul Ireland was founded in 2002 and was also
sponsored by members of the Vincentian Family with the objective of
providing help and support for homeless and disadvantaged people in
Dublin and throughout Ireland. We operate a model of low threshold
services, keeping rules and regulations to a minimum and ensuring that
those in need of services are able to access them. Our hope is that people
will be supported to realise and achieve their potential.
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers are involved in a variety of service based (Making the
Difference volunteers) and non service based roles (More than Change)
and there is a role is suit everyone, a full list of opportunities is available
from the Volunteer Programme. Roles vary from musicians, hair dressers
and activities assistants to being part of the tech savvy team, events team
and/or fundraising team.
Costs
While ‘Making the Difference’ volunteers are not involved in fundraising,
‘More than Change’ volunteers are involved in these projects. Volunteers
do not have to raise a specific amount. Funds raised go directly to
supporting homeless people in our services.
Training & Support
A four stage induction (4 x 2.5 hour sessions over 4 weeks) is provided for
all volunteers. This includes both organisation and project inductions.
Ongoing training opportunities are available to volunteers throughout the
year. Support and supervision is provided at a project level and there are 3
to 4 project volunteer forums which take place each year.
Application Process
Volunteers must complete an application form, provide two referees
names, and undergo Garda Vetting. The process takes place four times a
year and generally the takes 8-10 weeks.
Accessibility
A number of our opportunities are open to persons with disabilities
depending on the project location.
Fighting Words
Category:
Creative writing/education
Dates:
Ongoing
Location:
Behan Square, 13 Russell Street, Dublin 1
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
April 2010
Brief description of organisation:
Fighting Words offers free story-writing workshops for primary
school students in the mornings, creative writing tutoring for
secondary students in the afternoons. We also offer a full range of
week-long summer camps and will start evening and weekend
programmes in early 2010.
What do volunteers do?
Teams of volunteers run all of Fighting Words’ programmes. During the
academic year, volunteers work with small groups of children as they work
on their own individual writing projects, offering support and
encouragement as well as practical advice. Volunteers also lead the
storytelling aspect and provide illustrations for our primary school
workshops.
In the summer, volunteers help design our summer camps and then spend
the week working with the children on the project to be produced during
the course of the week. In 2009, we made comic books, wrote plays and
made films on mobile phones with students ranging in age from seven to
17.
Costs
Not applicable- volunteers are not involved in fundraising.
Training & Support
At our training sessions, we cover primary and secondary school
programmes and we ask our more experienced volunteers to observe new
volunteers to ensure that the new people are confident in tutoring. The
entire session is always supervised by Fighting Words staff.
Application Process
All volunteers are required to complete an application form and attend for
a brief volunteer interview. They then attend a two-hour training session,
during which we cover our various volunteer policies, including child
protection. We also check references and require Garda vetting for
volunteers who work with Fighting Words for 20 hours per week or more,
including summer volunteers.
Accessibility
This opportunity has disability access
Focus Ireland
Category:
Fundraising Challenges
Location:
All over Ireland & UK
Dates:
June 11th-13th, July, Sept dates tbc.
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
To be confirmed
Costs
Event staff volunteers do not need to pay or raise any money and expenses
are covered.
Event participants are asked to raise €4500 as a team for both the Four
Peaks Challenge and the UK 3 Peaks Challenge and individuals taking part
in the Highest Peak Challenge are asked to raise €450.
The money is used to fund our homeless services across Ireland.
Brief description of organisation:
Focus Ireland aims to advance the right of people-out-of-home to live in a
place they call home through quality services, research, and advocacy. The
objectives of Focus Ireland are to:
 respond to the needs of people out-of-home and those at risk of
becoming homeless, through a range of appropriate high quality
services
 provide emergency transitional and long-term accommodation for
people out-of-home
 campaign and lobby for the rights of people out-of-home and the
prevention of homelessness
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers play a key role at our events and challenges. For example, we
required over 100 volunteers to marshal our Fundraising Triathlon in
August 2009. Volunteers also join the Focus Ireland team for our Four
Peaks Challenge as event staff.
We are also looking for event participants for our Four Peaks Challenge
(June 2010), Highest Peak Challenge (July 2010) and UK 3 Peaks Challenge
(Sept 2010).
Training & Support
Volunteers can expect to be fully briefed in advance of the event and will
be teamed up with a member of Focus Ireland staff at the event
Application Process
Volunteers working with our services undergo a vetting and interview
process.
For events roles, Focus will contact new volunteers for an informal chat
before they start work.
Participants in our events and challenges can register anything from 6
months to 3 weeks in advance of the event. The sooner a team or
individual registers for an event, the more time they are giving themselves
to raise the minimum sponsorship.
Is this opportunity accessible for persons with disabilities?
While some of our opportunities are accessible, the Peak Challenges
involve mountain climbing/athletic activities.
Irish Kidney Association
6th European Transplant & Dialysis Games
Category:
Sport & Promotion of Organ Donor Awareness
Location:
DCU & Sports Venues in North County Dublin
Dates:
8th – 15th August 2010
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
April 30th 2010
(First come first served)
Brief description of organisation:
The Irish Kidney Association is hosting the 6th European Transplant & Dialysis
Games as a means to promote healthy living amongst all transplant recipients
(e.g. kidney, liver, lung, heart, pancreas) and people on dialysis. It is also a vehicle
for promoting organ donor awareness amongst the general public – to encourage
people to carry an organ donor card and discuss their wishes with their next-ofkin. 24 countries invited, 350-400 athletes expected – all celebrating new life
through sport
What do volunteers do?
There is a huge variety of ways in which people can contribute to this
event. Volunteers are needed for each of the following: competition
management, venue management, administrative and logistical support,
event services (such as safety, medical liaison, first aid etc.), social
programme planning and implementation as well as the coordination of
activities & carrying out fundraising events.
Costs
There is no absolute requirement to raise funds to be a volunteer at the 6th
European Transplant & Dialysis Games. However, any funds raised would
be appreciated and would go directly towards the costs of staging the
Games. All fundraising activities to support the Games must be sanctioned
before they are held.
Training & Support
Between May 1st and the beginning of the Games we will organise
appropriate training sessions, depending on the area the volunteer is
involved. There will be a Volunteer Manager and a Volunteer facility based
at Games HQ in DCU. Volunteers will check in at the Volunteer Facility and
report directly to the Manager responsible for their area.
Application Process
The process starts by completing an application form that will be available
in hard copy or to complete online from the Games website,
www.2010Newlife.com. A short list will be drawn up according to the
needs of the Games and the skills / experience offered by candidates.
Further information may be sought, including by following up references.
There will be no under 18’s competing in the Games. We hope to have all
volunteer roles filled by April 30th.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
Irish Seal Sanctuary
Category:
Animal Welfare
Location:
Garristown & Other
Dates:
Ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
ASAP
Brief description of organisation:
The Irish Seal Sanctuary is Ireland's only marine animal rescue and
rehabilitation charity run entirely by volunteers. We rescue, rehabilitate
and release back to the wild any distressed marine animal found around
the country. We may not be in a position to take any more animals in the
New Year and will be focussing on building a centre where the work can
resume. We are also involved in oil spill response planning, sea fisheries
advisory and cetacean freedom campaigning,
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers do a broad section of work from direct care of animals, to
fundraising, coordinating volunteers, selling merchandise, sitting of
fisheries councils, writing policy papers, maintaining the website,
producing an ezine, organising seal releases, etc.
Costs
Volunteers are not required to pay in order to get involved in our
organisation. Those who wish to engage in fundraising activity can become
involved in our Seal the Deal campaign to build a centre to house the work
of the sanctuary or can raise funds to cover the costs of caring for the
animals.
Application Process
Volunteers fill in an application on our website. Depending on their
interests we try to encourage volunteers to be self starters and once
familiar with the charity find the area they find the most relevant to their
skills and interests.
Training & Support
As we are all volunteers we support and supervise as much as possible but
prefer volunteers who feel passionate enough about the area to be able to
work independently as soon as they get to know the running of the charity.
Accessibility
Many areas of work such as website editing, ezine production, writing
articles, etc. are accessible.
Organisation Name: Irish Wheelchair Association
Category:
Disability service
Location:
Clontarf and Clondalkin
Dates:
Ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
No specific deadline
Brief description of organisation:
The Irish Wheelchair Association is a national organisation of and for
people with a physical disability. Services that are provided are driving
tuition, resource and outreach services, training, assisted living, youth and
sport. This volunteer opportunity is through our youth service which
provides activities and project for young people between 13 and 30 years
of age.
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers will develop, organise and run youth café in the Clontarf and
Clondalkin area. The youth café is a safe, fun and inclusive environment for
young people with and without a disability.
Costs
There will be some fundraising activities associated with this project and all
the monies raised go straight back to the youth café.
Training & Support
All volunteers are fully supported and supervised and all have a support
person appointed to them with whom regular meetings will be held. A fully
training programme will be carried out with all volunteers. This will include
keeping safe training, manual handling, working with young people and
health and safety.
Application Process
All volunteers are asked to complete an application form giving two
referees, a garda vetting form, to attend an interview and will given a copy
of our volunteer handbook. This process will take from 3 to 4 weeks.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
Special Olympics Ireland
Category:
Sport
Location:
Nationwide
Dates:
Ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline: End of April for National Games
Brief description of organisation:
The mission of Special Olympics Ireland is "to provide year-round sports
training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for
children and adults with an intellectual disability, giving them continuing
opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage,
experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendships
with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.”
What do volunteers do?
There are many ways to get involved as a volunteer in Special Olympics
Ireland – whether it’s helping to run a club at local level, if you have a
coaching qualification in a sport that we offer as part of our programme,
joining a regional committee, volunteering for the National Collection Day
every April or in one of our support centres, doing administration
duties/making calls etc..
2010 is a National Games year (happens every four). The Special Olympics
Ireland Games in 2010 is being held in Limerick from June 9th-13th. If you
are interested in volunteering for the 5 days of this you can apply now –
general orientation will be held in the New Year in Limerick for all
volunteers.
Costs
Not relevant to volunteering with Special Olympics Ireland
Training & Support
All volunteers go through induction and are in receipt of on-going training
and support.
Application Process
Potential volunteers can apply on our website to become involved. All
volunteers are subject to a criminal records check and the process can take
between 8-12 weeks.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
SVP Ozanam House
Category:
Education/ Leisure summer camp
Location:
Mountjoy Sq, D1
Dates:
Anything up to 4 weeks from July5th – 30th
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
April 16th 2010
We offer the young people a safe, fun, learning and social environment
where they can develop skills, develop new lifelong friendships and a
respect for themselves and those around them as well as an enhanced
sense of self worth and belief that is immeasurable in today’s society. Our
volunteers act as mentors and friends to the children, encouraging and
supporting them throughout the project.
Costs
Nothing. The project is funded by a variety of sources however we work
each year at targeting these sources and if volunteers are in a position to
assist us this is most welcome.
Brief description of organisation:
Ozanam House Resource Centre is a community resource centre based in
the North Inner City and run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. Since
our opening in September 2002 we have continued to develop various
Training & Support
programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion
All volunteers are required to attend an induction/information night in the centre,
as well as the many needs of the local community. Projects include a
attend child protection training session as well as our specific summer
children’s centre, a youth group, a computer training centre, cookery
project training day in advance of the project commencing.
classes focusing on healthy eating, an active retirement group and a
Application Process
summer project.
 Complete the initial expression of interest form.
What do volunteers do?
 You will then be sent an official application pack in the post which will
For the past four years we have operated a successful summer projects for
include the official application form. All volunteers must also be
young people (5 to 13 years) from the North East Inner City. This project
processed for Garda Clearance through the Garda Vetting unit – an
runs daily from early morning until late afternoon. The project is activity
additional form is provided for this which will be included in the
based with some excursions included each week. Activities include art,
application pack.
cookery, computers, sports and games, swimming, Karaoke, music classes,
 You will then be sent invitations to the various induction and training
treasure hunts, drama and sign language. We engage 1,200 children from
sessions held before the project starts
the local community. The children are divided into groups of 20 and each
group has been lead and supported by up to 5 volunteers each. The
Accessibility
volunteers can also lead the classes and activities where skills allow,
For the most part, this opportunity is accessible although it may depend on
however most of the classes and activities are facilitated by teachers,
the disability. Contact ozanamhouse@iol.ie for further details
allowing the volunteers to focus on the children and their enjoyment.
SVP Sunshine Fund
Category:
Children’s Holiday Camp
Location:
Balbriggan, Co. Dublin
Dates:
1 week during 21st May-29th August
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
April 2010
Brief description of organisation:
The Sunshine Fund is a unique part of the Society of St Vincent de Paul in Ireland.
Since 1935, we have been providing summer holidays free-of-charge to children
between the ages of 7 and 11 from disadvantaged areas across Dublin and
neighbouring counties at our holidays centre in Balbriggan- a small seaside town
north of Dublin city. More recently thanks to the efforts of our team of
volunteers, we have also been able to invite children from further afield.
What do volunteers do?
Our volunteers are ordinary people from all different walks of life: some are
students, some were in Sunshine themselves as children. Different backgrounds
but with many things in common: an interest in children, an ability to listen to
them, a desire to provide them with the best holiday we can and a willingness to
give them our undivided positive attention. If you volunteer with us you would be
joining a team of 15-20 like-minded people to look after 80-100 children for a
whole week, Saturday to Saturday. From getting them up in the mornings to
telling them bedtime stories at night and entertaining them in between, you will
be with the children all day except for your own mealtimes and breaks. Managing
football teams, helping to build sandcastles, painting pictures or collecting crabs,
judging competitions or simply being a friendly face, there's a role for everyone.
And for one volunteer that signs up, we can take eight more children on holiday.
Costs
Volunteers do not need to raise any money at all. The Sunshine Fund does most
of its fundraising at the annual Advocate Collection on Palm Sunday every year.
All meals and laundry service are provided free of charge for the volunteers
during their stay at Sunshine House.
Training & Support
Volunteers who have been successful in the interview process and garda vetting
will be invited to attend a Child Protection course. This covers everything from
best practice policies to possible scenarios the volunteers might encounter during
the week and strategies for dealing with them. All perspective volunteers will be
issued with an information booklet which covers in detail the routine of each day
in Sunshine House. In addition to this there is a training session for all volunteers
when they arrive on the Saturday in advance of the children's arrival! The
Volunteers department envisages ensuring that there is a mix between new
volunteers and experienced volunteers each week. In this way experienced
volunteers can help show new volunteers the ropes!
Application Process
Prospective volunteers will be asked to fill in an application form which can be
downloaded from our website www.sunshinefund.ie. Successful applicants will be
invited to attend an interview. We will contact two references and assist you in
applying for Garda Vetting. After the interview process applicants will be invited
to attend a Child Protection course. The duration of this process is 6 weeks.
Accessibility
Yes. We aim to accommodate any disability but this is assessed on a case-by-case
basis to ensure the safety of both volunteer and child alike. We currently have 6-7
volunteers with a disability.
Trócaire
Category:
Campaigns, Education and Fundraising
Location:
Throughout Ireland
Dates:
Ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
n/a
Brief description of organisation:
Trócaire is the official overseas development agency of the Catholic Church
in Ireland. It was set up by the Irish Catholic Bishops in 1973 to express the
concern of the Irish Church for the suffering of the world's poorest and
most oppressed people.
Trócaire’s partnership approach makes us different. We work through
global Catholic networks and with local partners on the ground. When we
help people, we work with them, so that they drive the entire process
themselves. Solutions are not imposed on the people we help. Instead,
they become the authors of their own destiny.
What do volunteers do?
Campaign:
By campaigning with Trócaire you will challenge the root causes of poverty
and injustice, and make a real difference in the world. Bringing about
change starts with you. You can help Trócaire to expose inequality, and
change the factors that cause it.
Join our Education Team:
Support our education team by running workshops in schools in your local
area. Inform students of the injustices that exist in our world and what
they can do to make a difference!
Become a Community Representative:
Act as an ambassador for Trócaire in your local area. Support our
fundraising campaigns; speak on Trócaire's behalf in your parish or
community; administer cheque collections from local schools; and much
much more.
Costs
Volunteers are not required to fundraise or contribute financially in order
to participate in our activities
Training & Support
Volunteers will be linked to a representative from the particular unit in
Trócaire (fundraising, education or campaigning) for ongoing training and
support. It is important for Trócaire to have volunteers who feel valued
and enjoy their volunteering experience. We will play our part to ensure
this is achieved.
Application Process
Volunteers will be asked to fill in a ‘register of interest’ form to indicate
their interest in volunteering and to help match them to our volunteering
options. Trócaire will host an Orientation Day for new volunteers in the
Irish Aid office Sat 16th January 2010. Volunteers will receive training
specific to their roles thereafter.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
A-Z Children’s Charity
Category:
Healthcare/education
Location:
Uganda
Dates:
3 weeks – 2 July-23 July
OR
23 July-13 August
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
26/02/2010
Brief description of organisation:
The mission of A-Z’s Children’s Charity’s is to provide healthcare and
education to vulnerable children in Uganda who are infected with or
affected by HIV/AIDS. Through sustainable projects, we endeavour to
empower people to work their way out of the cycle of poverty they have
been born into.
What do volunteers do?
We have specialised placements for nurses who will work in local Ugandan
clinics and for teachers who’ll be posted in primary schools. Student
nurses and teachers are very welcome.
We also have a general programme, for which no formal qualifications are
necessary. All volunteers will be involved in community, health and school
outreach programmes and will work on a building project. We also
organise cultural and social trips and provide rest days for volunteers to
relax or go on safari.
Costs
Volunteers must pay for and book their own flights. Just €100 covers the
full cost of airport transfers, accommodation, (including bed, mosquito net
and 3 meals a day) for the duration of your stay. Volunteers are required to
fundraise €2000 which goes directly to A-Z Children’s Charity programmes
in Uganda.
Training & Support
Pre-departure inductions begin in March 2010. We provide orientation
workshops to prepare volunteers for all aspects of the trip – travel
considerations, cultural adjustments and specific training for work
placements. This is also a great opportunity for volunteers to get to know
their team members and the A-Z Volunteer Coordinators who will also be
travelling to Uganda to supervise the programmes. The Coordinators
provide a huge amount of support and guidance whilst in Uganda –
volunteer
Application Process
Prospective volunteers must complete an application form, then they will
be contacted for an informal phone interview. All volunteers must be
willing to undergo Garda Vetting, as part of our Child protection Policy.
Accessibility
Unfortunately this opportunity is not accessible for persons with mobility
difficulties
Camara
Category:
Computers / Education
Location :
Dublin & Africa
Dates:
Ongoing in Dublin on a flexible drop- in basis,
4-5 weeks in Africa (July - August)
Volunteers can also take on a 3 month internship in Dublin
or engage in long term volunteering in Africa for a period of
2 years)
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
Ongoing
Brief description of organisation:
Camara is a registered Irish charity which strives to enhance the
educational system in Africa through Irish technology. It does this through
refurbishing used computers in its workshop in Dublin, then sending them
to schools and educational institutions in Africa. Volunteers then travel out
to these countries to train teachers in basic to advanced ICT skills.
What do volunteers do?
Train teacher in basic to advanced ICT skills in areas such as PC
Maintenance, Networking, Linux, Programming, Moodle Administration
and Multi-media.
Costs
Volunteers fundraise the amount needed to cover the cost of their trip (approx.
€2500)
Training & Support
Volunteers preparing for the Africa volunteer programme must complete
50 hours in Camara's workshop between February and July and must also
commit time to the individual training sessions for their role.
Application Process
Potential volunteers need to complete the application form, make an IT
presentation and attend an interview.
Workshop volunteers need to fill in an application form come to one of our
weekly inductions (20 minutes), after which they can start. For overseas
volunteering, we will start accepting applications in the New Year.
Accessibility
Unfortunately, we do not have wheelchair access in the workshop.
However, we have volunteering opportunities in areas such as web/print
design for those who wish to volunteer from a remote location.
European Voluntary Service
Category:
Various
Location:
EU member states, South East and Eastern Europe
and Mediterranean partner countries.
Dates:
2 months – 1 year (in exceptional cases 2wks +)
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
February 2010
Brief description of organisation:
Léargas is the National Agency of the Youth in Action Programme.
Volunteers are not hosted or sent by Léargas, rather we are the funding
body; assessing applications received from hosting and sending
organisations.
What do volunteers do? Activity varies between projects. Examples
include arts, social care, horticulture or environmental work.
Costs
EVS does not cost a volunteer any money either before or during their
experience. A small allowance is given to volunteers on a monthly or
weekly basis from the host organisation (this is part of the grant from the
EU).
Training & Support
In certain cases pre-departure training will be given to volunteers. In all
EVS volunteers are given training on-arrival or shortly after in the country
of their service. Also mid-way through their experience training will be
offered with other EVS volunteers in that country. Every EVS host
organisation in every country has a Mentor who is there to support the
volunteer and their learning.
Application Process
EVS is made up of a three way partnership: the hosting organisation,
where the young person spends the voluntary service working, the
volunteer themselves and the sending organisation, which is an
organisation which helps the volunteer to prepare before leaving the
country.
The sending organisation should be sourced by perspective volunteers
directly. They should be non-profit making organisations and have
accreditation with the National Agency. Prospective volunteers will then
search for a host organisation. This can be done through the European
Commission’s database http://ec.europa.eu/youth/evs/aod/hei_en.cfm or
through http://www.youthnetworks.eu/. The latter offers a database of
projects and place where volunteers can add profiles and hopefully be
spotted by host organisations.
Once a volunteer has been accepted by a hosting organisation, an
application for funding has to be made to the National Agency in either the
hosting or sending country.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
Note: Beneficiaries of this action are not just the European society but the
organisation and the community in which the volunteer is situated. Most
important though is the volunteers experience and personal
development. EVS is a “learning service: throughout non formal learning
experiences young volunteers improve and or acquire competences for
their personal, educational and professional development “(European
Commission, 2007).
Operation Smile Ireland
Category:
Medical
Location:
Africa, India, worldwide.
Dates:
Approx. 1 week commitment- ongoing
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
ongoing
Brief description of organisation:
Throughout the world, Operation Smile volunteers repair childhood facial
deformities while building public and private partnerships that advocate
for sustainable healthcare systems for children and families. Together, we
create smiles, change lives, and heal humanity.
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers can do anything, from helping out in our Dublin office, to
helping at fundraising events (coffee mornings, on-street collections, etc).
Volunteers with extensive medical experience may also apply to
participate in our medical missions.
Costs
At the moment all expenses are covered by Operation Smile; however, we
do ask in return that our volunteers engage in a bit of fundraising to help
raise support and awareness.
Training & Support
Extensive training is provided for medical volunteers before participating in
a mission. For all other volunteers, meetings are held before any event,
where roles and responsibilities are clearly outlined.
Application Process
Potential volunteers for our medical missions are asked to fill in an
application form based on their speciality (Medical / Surgical or Medical
Records). These are sent to the credentialing office in the US for further
approval.
For fundraising or office volunteers, CVs are sent to either the CEO or the
Development Officer, and volunteers are called as they are needed.
Accessibility
Our fundraising events and volunteer activities are accessible.
SERVE
Category:
Construction, education, sport, childcare, capacity
building, advocacy, HIV/AIDS
Location:
India, Brazil, Philippines, Thailand, South Africa,
Mozambique, Ireland
Dates:
4-6 weeks, July/August
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
Those interested must attend
info session in Nov/Dec 09.
Brief description of organisation:
SERVE is a development and volunteering organisation committed to
tackling poverty in the majority world. We strive to do this by working in
solidarity, service and partnership with marginalised and oppressed
communities, empowering them to tackle the root causes of poverty and
injustice. SERVE’S specific focus is towards gender equality, children and
young people.
What do volunteers do?
The nature of the volunteer work that volunteers engage in will depend on
the country destination. Volunteers assigned to programme countries are
based on matching the needs of partners with the skills’ base of volunteers
SERVE’s volunteers support our overseas partner’s response to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Street Children
HIV/AIDS
Education
Disability
Youth Development
6. Income Generation
7. Health
8. Gender
9. Homelessness
10. Skills training / Capacity Building
Costs
Volunteers must fundraise for the cost of their flight, tax and insurance,
contribution towards food and accommodation and post project
evaluation weekend. At this stage it is not possible to state an exact figure,
although it will be in the range of €1,100 to €1,500. Volunteers are
encouraged and supported to fundraise beyond the cost of their flight as
all additional funding contributes to a funding pool for the country where
you volunteer. SERVE’S partners can then apply to this fund to develop
their projects. Last year for every €1 raised by a SERVE volunteer, SERVE
was able to turn it into €3.47 through co-funding and additional funds.
Training & Support
SERVE provides 3 pre-departure training days. Attendance at these training
days is compulsory. At these days volunteers will meet their group, leaders
and will learn about their placement etc. SERVE volunteers take part in
group projects i.e. we go as a group and return as a group (SERVE does not
facilitate individual travel in country after the volunteering project ends).
Experienced leaders accompany every group and comprehensive in
country support is available from partner organisations.
Application Process
Interested volunteers must attend a SERVE presentation which will take
place in November/December 2009. Application forms can be completed
at this session. Following this, interested volunteers will be invited to
attend an interview in early/mid-December. Group selection will take place
in late December and volunteers will know if their application has been
successful by late December/early January.
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for people with disabilities. Contact SERVE
for further details.
SUAS
Category:
Education
Location:
India, Kenya
Dates:
10 weeks Overseas (June – Aug 2010)
Summer ’10 Application Deadline: December 21st 5pm
Brief description of organisation:
Founded in 2002, Suas Educational Development is a movement dedicated
to supporting high quality education in targeted under-resourced
communities, with programmes in India, Ireland and Kenya. The Suas
Volunteer Programme provides an opportunity to volunteer in a
community-based school or educational project in India or Kenya, for ten
weeks, while learning about different cultures. It offers the possibility to
develop personal and professional skills, to work in a team, and to learn
about the challenges and opportunities of International Development.
What do volunteers do?
Volunteers generally work with teachers in a classroom for an average of
40 hours per week; assisting with curricular activities; providing one-toone support to children; as well as extra-curricular activities; summer
camps, Soccer, Hurling, basketball, drama, arts & crafts etc. In addition,
some volunteers work on research, finance, web & IT support.
Costs
€2995: Your contribution covers: Flights, Accommodation, Insurance,
Training, Global Perspectives expenses (week of in-country workshops
facilitated by the UN), Coordinators and in-country support, and a
contribution towards the running costs of the programme.
Training & Support
The four month period from February to mid-June forms the Preparation
Phase. This includes teamwork, leadership development, teaching, project
management, Health & Safety etc.
Suas also provides significant fundraising support A fundraising mentor per
team; Specific fundraising sessions including: event planning, time
management and goal setting; Monthly updates to support volunteers'
progress; Assistance from the office in booking events, bag packs, table
quizzes etc.
Also, the Global Perspectives (Development Education) theme offers an
exciting opportunity to learn more about Development: to go on field trips,
take part in workshops and meetings with a wide cross-section of people
from the public, private and non-governmental sectors while overseas.
At the end of the summer, Many Volunteers return to Ireland with
enhanced professional and interpersonal skills, as well as a new confidence
in their ability to work together to make a difference. 100% of volunteers
reporting that they have gained skills they feel will benefit them in
pursuing their chosen career.
Application Process
Application form and those shortlisted are then interviewed (both group
and individual).
Accessibility
The programme is a physically and psychologically demanding experience.
Therefore all volunteers are required to attend a health screening with
their GP in advance of their departure, to certify that they are both
physically & psychologically fit to travel and take part in the programme.
Viatores Christi
Category:
Overseas Development
Location:
Africa, Asia and Latin America
Duration:
1-2 Years after completing a training programme
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
6th January ’10
Brief description of organisation:
Viatores Christi, a Catholic volunteer association, recruits, trains and sends
volunteers from all backgrounds with transferable skills to work in areas of
need overseas for a minimum of 1-2 years.
We seek skilled people over 21 who are committed to freedom, peace and
justice in the creation of a better world. Volunteers are people who are
flexible, use initiative, willing to work under sometimes difficult
circumstances, have practical experience of voluntary work at home are
motivated by Christian values.
What do volunteers do?
We seek people from all disciplines for various roles in developing
countries (see our website www.viatoreschristi.com for further details)
Apart from carrying a defined assignment; volunteers must also become
involved in the local community.
Costs
Our course fee is €400 with a 20% discount for unwaged and can be paid in
instalments. This covers the costs of course facilitators, materials and
meals. While overseas Viatores Christi will aim to provide a monthly local
living allowance. Flights, insurance and inoculations are generally also
covered by Viatores Christi.
Application Process
Those interested in joining the Viatores Christi training programme must
firstly attend an information seminar. These are held three times per year
in May, September and December throughout Ireland. The next Dublin
session will be held on Saturday 5th December.
There are two intakes of trainees each year in January and September.
Entry to the programme can only occur after attending an Information
Seminar and the programme enrolment form is fully completed and
returned with a photograph attached.
Trainees must be 21 years of age or over.
Training & Support
We provide training, placements, contracts, and a small amount of funding
and full support while overseas. Our training programme consists of six
weekend workshops:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Global Awareness
Community Development
Challenge Commitment & Conflict
Mission
Health
Cultural Adaptation
15 - 17 January 2010
12 - 14 February 2010
12 - 14 March 2010
16 - 18 April 2010
14 - 16 May 2010
11 - 13 June 2010
Accessibility
This opportunity is accessible for persons with disabilities.
Voluntary Service International
Costs
Dates:
Year-round
Various fees for different programmes- please see www.vsi.ie .
Location:
Ireland, Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America, North
America, Australia)
Training & Support
Category:
Various including: Development Education; AntiRacism; Solidarity; Peace; Work with people with
Disabilities; Work with Children, Ecological &
Environmental; Work with Young People and Elderly
People; Community Development, Arts, Culture; Local
History.
Summer ’10 Application Deadline:
Ongoing
(Some programmes on first come first served basis)
Brief description of organisation:
Voluntary Service International (VSI) is the Irish branch of Service Civil
International, a worldwide movement working for peace and international
understanding through international voluntary service projects. VSI’s mission is to
promote peace, social justice, sustainable development and intercultural
understanding through volunteering in Ireland and internationally. Our
programmes are: International Volunteer Projects; Africa, Asia, Latin America/
Development Education; Long-Term Volunteering; Teenage Programme (for
young people with fewer opportunities); Dublin Local Group (painting and
decorating locally).
What do volunteers do?
Varied - see above and www.vsi.ie.
Varies for the different programmes- please see www.vsi.ie.
Application Process
Various application process and preparation/ training for different programmes,
please see www.vsi.ie. Volunteers working with children/ vulnerable adults
will be vetted, this can take up to 8 weeks if Garda clearance is required,
please contact VSI.
Accessibility
VSI actively supports disabled volunteers and many of our projects are
wheelchair accessible/ suitable for people with various disabilities, please
contact Helen Walmsley: devofficer@vsi.ie 01 855 1011, 086 264 3610.