Volunteer Researcher for Donor Database

Job Posting Organization:
ACT Alliance is a coalition of over 148 churches and church-related organizations dedicated to creating positive and sustainable change in the lives of marginalized individuals across more than 128 countries. Established with a mission to respond to suffering, poverty, and injustice, ACT Alliance operates with a faith-motivated, rights-based, and impact-focused approach. The organization emphasizes ecumenical and inter-religious collaboration, ensuring that the communities they serve are at the heart of their work. ACT Alliance is committed to leaving no one behind, promoting inclusivity, and empowering individuals affected by poverty and crisis to become active participants in their own development and relief efforts. The coalition's objectives include implementing effective humanitarian, development, and advocacy work at various levels to enhance the rights of those whose rights are often overlooked. The organization operates in 13 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on a wide range of programs that address urgent needs and promote sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Volunteer Researcher for Donor Database will play a crucial role in supporting ACT Alliance's mission by conducting detailed research to build a comprehensive database of potential donors in the United States, Canada, and Europe. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about humanitarian work and have a keen interest in supporting faith-based initiatives. Volunteers will be expected to dedicate 15-20 hours per week over a 12-week period, collaborating closely with the Regional Representative and fellow volunteers to ensure a cohesive and effective team dynamic. The primary goal is to gather relevant information on thematic priorities, types of grants, eligibility criteria, and deadlines that align with ACT Alliance's objectives. This role not only involves research but also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and quality assurance in data management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Volunteer Researcher include conducting thorough research on potential donors who support faith-based organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly focusing on interests such as climate justice, humanitarian assistance, and development projects. Volunteers will be responsible for entering the collected data into a structured database, ensuring completeness and accuracy in all fields, including donor names, grant types, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and areas of work. Collaboration with the Regional Office and other volunteers is essential to maintain consistency and accuracy across the database. Regular updates on research progress will be required during team meetings, where volunteers will share findings, challenges, and advancements. Additionally, volunteers will be tasked with ensuring the quality of the information entered, making sure it is relevant and up-to-date, thereby contributing to a reliable resource for ACT Alliance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this volunteer position should possess strong research skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Familiarity with database management and data entry processes is highly desirable. Volunteers should also demonstrate a commitment to ACT Alliance's mission and values, showing sensitivity to the needs of marginalized communities. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for providing updates and collaborating with team members. A proactive approach to problem-solving and a willingness to learn and adapt are also important qualities for this role.

Educational Background:
While there are no strict educational requirements for this volunteer position, candidates with backgrounds in social sciences, international development, nonprofit management, or related fields may find their skills particularly relevant. A strong understanding of humanitarian issues and faith-based initiatives will be beneficial for conducting effective research and contributing to the organization's goals.

Experience:
Previous experience in research, data entry, or volunteer work within nonprofit organizations is advantageous but not mandatory. Candidates should be comfortable working independently as well as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and a strong work ethic. Experience in working with diverse groups and understanding the dynamics of faith-based organizations will enhance the volunteer's ability to contribute meaningfully to the project.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the majority of the research will involve English-language sources. Proficiency in Spanish or French is considered a valuable asset, particularly for engaging with diverse donor profiles and enhancing communication within the team.

Additional Notes:
This is a remote volunteer position, allowing individuals from the Americas and Europe to apply. The commitment is for a duration of 12 weeks, requiring 15-20 hours of work per week. Volunteers will report to the Regional Representative of ACT Alliance for Latin America and the Caribbean. This role is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain experience in research and database management while contributing to meaningful humanitarian efforts. The position is unpaid, but it offers valuable experience and the chance to make a positive impact in the lives of marginalized communities.