VSO on search for charity sector volunteers

By Beck Slack
Professional Fundraising, UK, July 2007

VSO is calling for more charity sector professionals to participate in its international volunteering programmes.

It has recently increased the number of capacity-building projects it offers within charities and NGOs in developing countries and as a result needs more staff with appropriate skills and knowledge to volunteer.

“There is a really strong demand for managers with five or more years’ experience of working in the voluntary sector and for fundraisers with two or more years’ experience. The idea is that they pass on their skills and leave people in place who can go on and support the organisation long-term,” said Vicky Starnes, marketing advisor at VSO. “Fundraising in particular is one of the most requested skills and we’re having to leave places unfilled because we don’t have enough volunteers to satisfy demand.”

Research published in January 2006 found 80 per cent of volunteers believed they returned with expertise they would not have gained in the UK, while 92 per cent said they were now more capable of handling different cultures and 75 per cent felt they were now better communicators as a result of overseas volunteering.

Volunteers would be required to remain in post for two years, during which time they would receive a local living allowance. Flights and accommodation would be covered by VSO.

Fundraisers interested in volunteering can attend a free event on 24 July in London organised by VSO and the Resource Alliance, the charity that aims to build fundraising capacity worldwide. To find out more call VSO’s volunteering advice line on 0208 780 7500 or visit www.vso.org.uk