Applications for 2025 are now closed
2026 opportunities will be launched in September 2025
JOA Volunteer Programme
Since 1972 Jersey has facilitated parties of volunteers to work with communities in low-income countries. Our projects are designed to respond to the needs of communities, ensuring that they are impactful and delivered in an equal partnership. Volunteers work alongside communities with a shared aim: to improve their quality of life and support their own capacities to help address poverty and inequality in line with Sustainable Development Goals. JOA is also excited to be developing further skills-based volunteering opportunities in Accountancy and Health.
Volunteering For Accountants (AfID)
JOA, in partnership with Accounting for International Development (AfID), is offering an exciting opportunity for two finance professionals based in Jersey to volunteer overseas. Selected applicants will spend 2-8 weeks in either Africa or Asia, working individually to enhance the financial management capabilities of one of AfID's inspiring non-profit partners. If you are interested in applying for this opportunity, please contact Gilly at: g.challinor@joa.je.
Bursaries
In addition to our volunteering programme, JOA also offers personal and professional bursaries – a number of funding opportunities for Jersey residents who want to gain experience in the development sector. For more information, please visit www.joa.je/get-involved/bursaries. Alternatively, please contact the JOA team at enquiries@joa.je or call on 446901 for more information or for an informal chat.
Frequently asked questions about JOA's Volunteer Programme
What does JOA's Volunteer Programme involve?
JOA works with its partner organisations, charities or Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), to send islanders to volunteer overseas to support initiatives that improve opportunity and wellbeing in some of the world’s poorest communities. Each project is usually formed of about twelve volunteers and is led by an experienced team leader. Volunteers are asked to make a contribution towards their travel expenses and JOA funds the additional costs of the trip. JOA also funds materials and supplies necessary in order to complete each project. Volunteers are expected to participate in training and team-building exercises in the months before departure.
Who can apply to volunteer with JOA?
Anyone living in Jersey who is aged 18 or over is welcome to apply to take part in JOA's Volunteer Programme. Applications from potential volunteers with a minimum of five years’ residency are given preference.
How many projects have JOA volunteers supported and in what countries?
By 2023 more than 1,000 volunteers had been involved in the delivery of over 100 projects. These include constructing sand dams in Kenya, providing one-to-one care to underprivileged persons with disabilities in Lebanon, improving access to safe and sustainable sanitation facilities in Tanzania, and constructing a day care centre in Mongolia, to provide a secure and caring space for children.
What is the cost of volunteering with JOA?
JOA funds the majority of the cost of its Volunteer Programme, asking participants for a donation of £500 towards travel costs. The Rotary Club of Jersey-de La Manche offers a bursary that can be used to fund the cost of an individual’s trip. In addition, participants can also apply for a JOA bursary to cover their travel contribution.
How do I apply?
Applications for JOA's volunteer programme are open annually, following the launch of opportunities available for that period. Please follow our step-by-step guide on how to apply through our online application portal, SmartSimple.
Are there volunteering opportunities available for islanders who are unable to travel?
JOA is excited to be developing further online volunteering opportunities in Accountancy and Health which it is hoped will launch in the Spring of 2024.
What if I want to volunteer but I work full time?
Many employers have special policies in place which allow employees paid time off for the purposes of volunteering. Check with your organisation to see if there is one in place.
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