Volunteering - Community Work Projects

Our Community Work Projects are open to all members of the Jersey public (over the age of 18), offering the opportunity to participate in practical building activities that help develop local infrastructure, directly enhancing the wellbeing of host communities. These volunteer projects form part of JOA-funded, long-term initiatives, with on-site contributions integrated into the broader, long-term impact of the project. Alongside making a tangible difference, these trips provide Jersey citizens with the chance to learn about host countries, engage with the global development sector, and foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and support for JOA’s mission.

Applications for the Community Work Projects are now closed, with the next cycle opening in September 2025 for projects commencing in early 2026.

We launch our Community Work projects for the following year each autumn at which time, islanders are invited to complete an application form allowing you to express why you are motivated to volunteer. Shortlisted applicants are then invited for an interview. Individuals selected for the projects will be required to take part in a programme of pre-departure training events with your team. Our training also includes workshops on the development sector and the evolving role that volunteering plays.

Our projects

Each project runs for 1-2 weeks and is usually formed of about 12 volunteers, led by an experienced team leader. Volunteers are asked to make a £500 contribution towards their travel expenses and JOA funds all additional costs. Further financial support is available on a case-by-case basis.

The application process runs annually, so if you’re eager to volunteer before the next round, we encourage you to explore our professional volunteering opportunities and bursary programmes. To stay informed and be the first to know when the next round of volunteering opens, sign up for our newsletter here.

Kenya, Sand Dams

Our volunteer project in Ukambani, Kenya, helped construct a sand dam that ensures a reliable year-round water supply for a farming community. This initiative improves access to water, boosts food security, and enhances resilience to climate change by supporting agriculture and so stabilising incomes.

“Water was a big challenge to every member of this community. You would be lucky if you spend three hours there, then with the walk home, I would spend half of my day collecting water. With the water from the sand dam I hope to start growing new crops, new vegetables, and to become self-reliant. Because I will have more time to attend to my crops, I will be able to do proper land preparation for it to be productive and put into practice the new farming techniques we’ve been taught."

Rhoda Mwikali

SHG member

Malawi, Habitat for Humanity

A team of JOA volunteers worked with Habitat for Humanity in Chatata, Malawi, building homes for families left vulnerable during the wet season. Working alongside the local artisan team to help improve living standards through tasks such as building walls and painting, this project ultimately transforms lives through improved infrastructure, enhancing shelter security.

Maggie, a local Habitat for Humanity volunteer shares why the change in housing is requested. "The housing need is huge." "During the rainy season they are just waiting for the rain to finish. They will not get sleep at all. School books are soaked in water which can encourage the children not to go to school."

Maggie Siyeni

Habitat for Humanity volunteer

If you would also like to find out more about this project from one of our Jersey volunteers, click here!

Nepal, Gurkha Welfare Trust

In Chitwan, Nepal, a JOA volunteer team worked with the Gurkha Welfare Trust to improve education access for the local communities. Through building classrooms and toilets for a rural school, the student capacity is able to be increased and retention of young women improved.

"A clean, comfortable, and safe learning space is often taken for granted but is essential for education. Poverty, driven by a lack of education, limits economic and social mobility. Improved school facilities remove barriers, encourages attendance, and enhances the quality of education, especially for girls. This leads to better literacy, numeracy, and job prospects, empowering students to contribute to their communities and drive sustainable development."

Maj (Ret'd) Purna Gurung

Area Welfare Centre Chitwan

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.