Volunteer for Development

Job Posting Organization:
VSO is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO operates in some of the world’s most impoverished and fragile regions. The organization believes in empowering individuals in developing countries to shape their own futures rather than relying solely on aid. Through its Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach, VSO prioritizes the most marginalized communities, fostering active citizenship that drives local change and contributes to sustainable development goals even after projects conclude. VSO's commitment to this mission is grounded in years of evidence and learning, ensuring that their initiatives are effective and impactful.

Job Overview:
The role of the Volunteer for Development involves direct reporting to the Country Program Manager/PIL while being stationed with local implementing partners, specifically the UNYPHIL women. The volunteer will engage in occasional travel to Lanao Del Norte and other project areas outside the BARMM region. The primary objective of this position is to enhance the capacity of Civil Society Groups (CSGs) in managing their organizational and operational development. This will be achieved by co-developing inclusive tools, frameworks, and learning resources that are tailored to the diverse contexts of these groups. The volunteer will provide demand-driven technical support aimed at strengthening strategic planning, inclusive governance, shared leadership, reflective practices, and adaptive management. As part of a global volunteer network, this role will also involve acting as a resource person, offering targeted and flexible technical support to in-country CSGs, along with regular coaching and mentoring. The volunteer will collaborate with local accompanier volunteers, the VSO team, and partners to customize support according to each CSG’s specific context, readiness, and common challenges or priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Volunteer for Development include:

• Strengthening the capacity of Civil Society Groups (CSGs) by co-developing inclusive tools and frameworks.
• Providing technical support in strategic planning and governance.
• Facilitating participatory processes and learning opportunities across diverse contexts.
• Offering coaching and mentoring to local volunteers and CSGs.
• Conducting assessments to identify the needs and priorities of CSGs.
• Collaborating with local partners to tailor support to the unique challenges faced by each group.
• Engaging in regular communication with the VSO team and partners to ensure alignment of goals and strategies.
• Documenting lessons learned and best practices to contribute to the broader knowledge base of VSO and its partners.
• Participating in training and capacity-building initiatives for local volunteers and CSGs. 1
• Upholding VSO’s values and commitment to equal opportunities throughout all interactions and activities.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Volunteer for Development position should possess the following qualifications:

• Expertise in organization design and development.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in a similar role.
• Strong skills in facilitating participatory processes and learning across diverse contexts.
• Proficiency in digital tools and data literacy.
• Experience in coaching and mentoring individuals or groups.
• A commitment to VSO’s Volunteering for Development approach, mission, values, and Code of Conduct.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build sustainable relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Openness to new ideas and adaptability to changing situations.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background that supports their expertise in organization design and development. This may include degrees in fields such as social sciences, international development, public administration, or related areas. Additional certifications in coaching, facilitation, or project management may also be beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have 3-5 years of relevant experience in organization design and development, particularly within the context of civil society or community development. Experience in working with marginalized communities and understanding their unique challenges is essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record of facilitating participatory processes and providing technical support to organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within VSO and with international partners. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Philippines would be advantageous, as it would enhance communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national volunteer position specifically open to nationals of the Philippines, as VSO is unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Volunteers will receive an allowance paid in local currency, and accommodation will be provided, although it may be basic due to the nature of VSO's work in some of the poorest communities. The position is full-time, and the application closing date is set for May 31, 2026, with a start date anticipated in June 202

• VSO reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received. Additionally, VSO is committed to a fair and transparent recruitment process and does not charge any fees related to applications or recruitment.