Volunteer Applications - 2023

UISCE Volunteers

Donum est in provocatione: Tá an Bronntanas sa Dúshlán: The gift is in the challenge

Volunteers are integral to the operation of UISCE’s programmes and projects

International volunteers are at the heart of UISCE’s mission of exploring resistances to peacebuilding. They live on campus and normally work Monday to Thursday, from 9 am to 4.30 pm, with a 30 min morning coffee break and 1 hour for lunch. The work varies quite a bit, and we aim to match it with your skills and interests. In addition to day-to-day work such as cooking, cleaning, repairing and maintaining the centre, work also includes marketing, administration, research, social media and fund-raising; with some volunteers participating in our peacebuilding work. Some lead research that grounds the UISCE Leaders’ programmes and others will prepare exhibitions, help produce our annual journal, and maintain our digital community.

If you are interesting in joining us, please read the following information and then fill out the application at the bottom.

Important Information

International Volunteers

Since 2012, hundreds of volunteers from countries all over the world have helped our different projects in Ireland - and we are very grateful for their help. For many it is their first time to work in an international, multi-cultural team and many have become our good friends and the vast majority have an excellent time. We typically have between 5 and 20 volunteers with us at any one time, from as many different countries, with varying ages and levels of English proficiency. The sense of community is very important and this is one of the most enjoyable aspects.

Work Realities

Sometimes work hours vary when we help other people or organisations or have extra work at the centre; but we take time off for any extra hours worked. It is important that every volunteer is willing to help where and when needed and isn’t “rigid” in their attitude. Volunteers gain so much from helping others. Our work priorities change, too. You need to be a flexible person who can cope with change. In the many years I have managed volunteers, those who have the best time are positive, friendly, flexible, and genuinely here to help and enjoy others. If you need to earn some money, you can often get a local job Friday, Saturday or Sunday; but if you honestly need more than a part-time income, don’t volunteer here. Focus on getting a full-time paying job! And please don’t think UISCE is a “free place to stay” while you finish your studies during work hours! You can study outside of work hours or on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. UISCE is for people who want to help by volunteering. Sometimes we get people who have not clarified their priorities, so be honest and realistic with yourself. Good volunteers focus on their work, work together, and know how to enjoy themselves.

Living Arrangements

Volunteers usually have their own bedrooms, but sometimes have to share. We get lots of food donations from local supermarkets - which are yours to use to prepare your meals and you sometimes need to buy other food to suit personal preferences. We have a shared kitchen where you cook individually or in small groups and we aim to have a dinner together once or twice a week - and you will be welcome to try a recipe from your own country. Each person tidies up after their meal and helps to keep the place tidy. Volunteers also take it in turns to collect the food donations from the supermarkets and to tidy the kitchen last thing at night.

As a member of a multi-cultural team, you will get a good experience of Irish culture, history, politics, nature, arts and community interests. I will help you improve your English. I also attend a local church, and you can come, if you like.

How Long Can I Stay

We prefer if volunteers can come for at least a month. Most come for two or three months and, quite often, some come back for a second, third or even fourth visit! Under special circumstances, some stay a year.

Clothing

Ireland is a beautiful green country but can be wet [at times] - wait a minute, it's dry ... nope, it's raining! Because you may do some outdoor tasks, please be sure to bring 1. Suitable clothing & footwear (That you don't mind getting dirty!); 2. A warm waterproof jacket; 3. In winter we recommend bringing underlayers/thermal clothing in the winter; and 4. Your own laptop, especially if you plan to help with office-based tasks.

Weekends

Friday to Sunday, you are free to do your own thing, like visit other parts of Ireland, and sometimes we have day tips away. Some people get local part-time weekend jobs to earn some money - but you do need to make sure you have at least one day off to rest and relax.

We know that volunteers want to experience Irish culture and see the country, so we encourage you to travel on your days off to explore Ireland. Galway, Donegal, Belfast and UNESCO world heritage site, The Giants' Causeway, Slieve League cliffs - the highest sea cliffs in Europe, all make excellent trips for your free days, either at the weekend or during the week. I have plenty of experience with tourism and can help you plan your trips. There is a good bus service to Dublin, Belfast and Londonderry. Belfast airport is 1 ½ hours and Dublin airport 2 hours away.

Roles We Need to Fill ASAP

Peace Studies Researchers
Social Media Managers
Skilled Manual help [carpenters, painters, plasterers]
Catering staff
Fundraisers / grant applications
Admin & Accounts Assistant
Youth workers

For those who successfully complete their time as an UISCE Volunteer, we can provide a Certificate in Voluntary Service, so potential employers distinguish you from other applicants!