Volunteers – STS Fung-Wong (local name Uwan) Emergency Response

Job Posting Organization:
Relief International is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating poverty, ensuring well-being, and advancing dignity across 15 countries. Established to respond to fragile settings, the organization specializes in addressing natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and chronic poverty. Relief International employs a dual approach that combines humanitarian efforts with development strategies, providing immediate services while also laying the groundwork for sustainable long-term impact. Their unique methodology, referred to as the RI Way, emphasizes local participation, integration of services, strategic partnerships, and a focus on enhancing civic skills. This approach empowers communities to identify, design, and implement solutions tailored to their specific needs. The organization operates under the RI Alliance, which includes four corporate members: RI-US, RI-UK, MRCA/RI-France, and RI-Europe. Together, they function as a unified management structure. Additionally, Relief International has established country offices that are registered as affiliates of one of the alliance members in 15 other countries. In the Philippines, the organization has provided a diverse range of humanitarian assistance and development programs, including the institutionalization of improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in collaboration with local governments, responding to natural disasters through food and non-food item distribution, and enhancing the capacity of local governments to improve Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) preparedness.

Job Overview:
The position of Volunteers for the STS Fung-Wong Emergency Response involves critical responsibilities following Typhoon Uwan (internationally known as FUNG-WONG). The enumerators or volunteers will be tasked with conducting rapid needs assessments, profiling households, validating beneficiaries of pre-identified households, and performing post-distribution monitoring (PDM) in the affected communities and municipalities of Aurora and Isabela provinces. The volunteers will also assist in emergency response activities, which include the distribution of relief kits and conducting community sessions. This role is vital in ensuring that the needs of the affected populations are accurately assessed and addressed, thereby facilitating effective emergency response efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The volunteers will be required to attend an orientation session focused on the use of templates and guidelines for data gathering, including Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) and PDM. They will perform daily data collection activities, aiming to profile around 30 households per day, which includes beneficiary validation and PDM activities. Volunteers will need to obtain consent and take photographs during fieldwork. It is essential that all data collection processes adhere to the guidelines set forth by Relief International. Additionally, volunteers will assist in preparing and distributing relief assistance for emergency response and conduct community sessions that promote hygiene and protection key messages. Upholding and promoting Relief International's commitment to safeguarding vulnerable communities is paramount, ensuring that their behavior aligns with the organization's code of conduct and safeguarding policies. Volunteers will also contribute to program design that adequately addresses safeguarding and protection standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this volunteer position should possess a strong commitment to humanitarian principles and values, including humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and operational independence. They should demonstrate a willingness to engage with vulnerable communities and uphold the values of inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, agility, innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Previous experience in humanitarian work or community engagement is highly desirable, as is the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in social sciences, community development, or a related field would be advantageous. Volunteers should have a foundational understanding of humanitarian principles and practices, as well as the ability to engage with diverse communities effectively.

Experience:
Experience in data collection, community engagement, or humanitarian response is preferred. Volunteers should be comfortable working in challenging environments and have the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Previous involvement in emergency response or disaster relief efforts will be beneficial for candidates applying for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the affected areas, such as Tagalog or Ilocano, would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better communication with community members.

Additional Notes:
The position is temporary, with a duration of 15 days, scheduled to take place within November to December 2025, contingent upon project award and funding. This role is crucial for those looking to gain experience in emergency response and humanitarian work. Volunteers will be expected to work full-time during the project duration, and the position may involve travel to various locations within the Cagayan, Isabela, and Aurora provinces.