National Volunteer - Resilient Livelihood & CSO Accountability Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) 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 poorest and most fragile regions. The organization believes in empowering individuals in developing countries, recognizing their desire, power, courage, and determination to shape their own futures. VSO's approach, known as Volunteering for Development (VfD), prioritizes the most marginalized individuals, fostering active citizenship that drives community-led change and contributes to sustainable development goals even after projects conclude. VSO's commitment to volunteering is grounded in years of evidence and learning, making it a leader in the field of international development through volunteerism.

Job Overview:
The National Volunteer role focuses on supporting the implementation of resilient livelihoods, agro-ecological practices, and civil society accountability interventions as part of the ACTIVE project in Surkhet District, Nepal. This position involves collaborating with partner organizations, farmer groups, mothers' groups, and Civil Society Groups (CSGs) to enhance climate-resilient livelihood opportunities. The volunteer will promote inclusive and sustainable agro-ecological practices while also working to strengthen organizational capacity, accountability, and community participation. The role is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and are willing to engage with various stakeholders to foster sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Volunteer include:

• Supporting the implementation of resilient livelihood strategies and agro-ecological practices in collaboration with local partners.
• Facilitating training sessions and workshops for farmer groups and CSGs to enhance their understanding of climate-resilient practices.
• Assisting in the development and execution of community engagement initiatives aimed at promoting accountability and participation.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of interventions on local communities and providing feedback for continuous improvement.
• Building strong relationships with local stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community leaders, to foster collaboration and support for project goals.
• Documenting best practices and lessons learned to share with the broader VSO network and contribute to organizational learning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups. They should demonstrate resilience and adaptability in challenging environments. Experience in community development, agriculture, or related fields is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have a commitment to promoting equal opportunities and valuing diversity within the workforce. The ability to facilitate positive change and build sustainable working relationships is essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A background in social sciences, development studies, agriculture, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of community development principles and practices, particularly in the context of rural livelihoods and environmental sustainability. Relevant training or certifications in agro-ecology or community engagement would be advantageous.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have prior experience working in community development or volunteer roles, particularly in rural settings. Experience in facilitating training or workshops, as well as working with marginalized communities, is highly valued. Candidates should be comfortable working independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and problem-solving skills in their approach to challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within VSO and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Nepal, such as Nepali or regional dialects, is highly desirable and would enhance the volunteer's ability to engage effectively with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time national volunteer role with a flexible start date as soon as possible. While the salary is not specified, volunteers receive a monthly allowance in local currency to cover reasonable living expenses during their placement. Accommodation will be provided, but it may be basic due to the nature of the communities VSO serves. The organization emphasizes that it does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and any fraudulent requests should be reported.