VSO National Volunteer DRR and CSO Accountability Coordinator

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 believes in effecting change not by sending aid, but by collaborating with volunteers and partners to empower individuals in some of the world's poorest and most fragile regions. The organization recognizes that people in developing countries possess the desire, power, courage, and determination to shape their own futures. Through its Volunteering for Development (VfD) approach, VSO prioritizes the most marginalized individuals, fostering active citizenship that drives local community-led change and ensures the sustainability of development goals long after a project or grant concludes. VSO operates in numerous countries, engaging a diverse workforce and promoting equal opportunities.

Job Overview:
The primary purpose of this volunteer role is to assist in the implementation of disaster risk reduction (DRR), climate resilience, and civil society accountability initiatives under the ACTIVE project in Rautahat District, Nepal. This position involves collaborating with local governments, civil society groups (CSGs), youth-led organizations, and community stakeholders to enhance disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and shock-responsive social protection mechanisms. The role specifically aims to bolster the resilience of marginalized communities, with a focus on women, Dalits, Indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. The volunteer will play a crucial role in facilitating the development of strategies and programs that address the unique challenges faced by these communities, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met in the face of climate change and disaster risks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the VSO National Volunteer DRR and CSO Accountability Coordinator include:

• Supporting the implementation of disaster risk reduction strategies and climate resilience initiatives in collaboration with local governments and community stakeholders.
• Engaging with civil society groups and youth-led organizations to promote accountability and transparency in disaster response efforts.
• Facilitating training and capacity-building workshops for local communities to enhance their preparedness for disasters and climate-related challenges.
• Conducting assessments to identify the specific needs and vulnerabilities of marginalized groups within the community.
• Developing and maintaining partnerships with local organizations to foster a collaborative approach to disaster risk management.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of implemented strategies and providing feedback for continuous improvement.
• Advocating for the inclusion of marginalized voices in decision-making processes related to disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess the following qualifications:

• A strong commitment to volunteerism and community development.
• Experience in disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, or related fields is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while also being self-motivated.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex challenges faced by communities.
• Familiarity with the socio-economic context of Nepal and the specific challenges faced by marginalized groups.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this role. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in fields such as social sciences, development studies, environmental science, or a related discipline. Additional certifications or training in disaster risk management, climate change adaptation, or community development will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have prior experience working in community development, disaster risk reduction, or related areas. Experience in volunteer management or working with marginalized communities will be particularly beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully implementing projects or initiatives that have led to positive outcomes for communities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Nepal, such as Nepali or Maithili, is highly desirable and will enhance the ability to engage effectively with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role, and while the salary is not specified, volunteers will receive a monthly allowance paid in local currency to cover reasonable living expenses during their placement. Accommodation will be provided, although it may be basic due to the nature of the communities VSO works with. The contract type and length are not specified, but the role is expected to be full-time. VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, and reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received. The application closing date is set for July 2, 2026, and the start date is as soon as possible.