At our core, we believe in pairing enthusiastic volunteers with organisations who are in need of volunteer help. It’s simple. And a group of enthusiastic international volunteers can add a whole new element to the project by bringing new perspectives and opportunities for intercultural learning and understanding.
Each year UNA Exchange coordinates a programme of short term international projects hosted by community organisations in Wales. We have 10 2-3 week projects each year, hosting around 80 international volunteers. We also have a programme of weekend projects which focus on bringing together Wales-based volunteers to complete a smaller piece of work.
“Volunteers gave this place happiness, they give it a positive vibe. I get a lot out of having you as young people stay here. “
Gerald, hosting volunteers on a community organic farm
We are always looking for new organisations interested to host volunteer projects, either for a weekend or for a few weeks. If you are a not for profit, community organisation, UNA Exchange can help you set up an exciting project with volunteers from all over the world.
What will UNA Exchange do?
- Work with staff in your organisation to help develop and organise a project
- Recruit volunteers and through our network of international partners
- Arrange visas when necessary
- Train leaders (volunteers) for projects – leaders provide a link between UNA Exchange, the host and the volunteer group and help to organise domestic and social activities
- Provide training and support for you and your staff
- Share information between the host, leaders and volunteers
- Support the projects whilst they are happening, e.g. through visits and phone calls and as a ‘trouble-shooter’
- NB If the project will be working with children or vulnerable adults, we will ensure the volunteers provide a ‘Certificate of Good Conduct’. For most countries this is provided by the police and is the closest we can get to a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check. We have an extensive Child Protection Policy and working standards which we will happily discuss with prospective host projects.
What will you do?
- Work closely with UNA Exchange to develop a project
- Plan and supervise the work of the international volunteers, including providing tools and materials
- Find accommodation for the volunteers (usually a community centre or similar building)
- Provides a small budget for food etc (£4 per volunteer per day)
- Arrange transport for the volunteers from a nearby meeting point to the project site
- Support the volunteers during the project, including providing an emergency contact
- Help the volunteers meet local people and get involved with events in the community
Have a look on our workcamp stories!
Meet Hannah, Laura and other international volunteers who took part in our Welsh projects.