Fields of Life | Volunteer FAQs

Please find below a list of questions and answers regarding volunteering queries. For more FAQs about Fields of Life click here.

1. What differences can volunteers make?

Volunteers make a difference by using their time, talents, knowledge and contacts that we do not have. You reach more people more quickly, more regularly and on a more personal level than we can, therefore making a difference to the work of FOL and to the lives of people in East Africa.

2. What is the role of the volunteer?

The role of the volunteer is to help FOL achieve their goals and aims, through the carrying out of various tasks and activities. Volunteers play a unique part in the work of FOL.

3. What do volunteers contribute to Fields of Life?

Volunteers make a huge contribution to FOL by giving freely of their time, talents, energy, enthusiasm and experience.

4. Why are they necessary to the organisation?

Volunteers are necessary to Fields of Life because we are a non-profit organisation. We cannot hire enough paid expertise to fully achieve the aims and goals of the mission statement. Therefore we rely on people to donate their time and expertise just as much as we rely on people to provide financial support.

5. How do I become a volunteer?

To become a volunteer, please click here to read about the volunteering process and to download a Volunteer Pack. For further questions or queries contact info@fieldsoflife.com or call the NI office on 028 3839 0395 or the ROI office on 00353 1282 7777.

6. How much time can I give?

The time you give depends on the role you take. Some volunteers volunteer 2 hours a week, some once a week, some just once-off. Specific information regarding the commitment required for each role can be found in the Volunteer Pack here or by contacting info@fieldsoflife.com or call the NI office on 028 3839 0395 or the ROI office on 00353 1282 7777.

7. Can I still volunteer if I work full-time?

Yes, you can. We understand that you will have work, family, church and other commitments. We have roles to suit people who can give us as much or as little time as they can.

8. What tasks will I be doing?

Volunteers can be involved in a wide range of tasks. These include helping out with office administration, fundraising, undertaking FOL speaking events, informing your church about FOL, running prayer meetings, etc. For a full list of volunteer activities click here. We also occasionally have special events available throughout the year, for example choir visits, which involve something a little different!

9. What skills do I need?

The skills required depend on the role you take. Some of our role require specialised knowledge and qualifications, eg in the legal or educational fields. However, many can be carried out simply with guidance from FOL. Our training package includes and induction and orientation session, as well as any role specific training you may need.

10. What support and training will I receive?

To fulfill your role effectively, every volunteer will be given training and support from the FOL Volunteer Co-ordinator. To learn more about this support and training click here.

11. Can I volunteer in Africa?

Yes, you can volunteer in Africa as part of a two-week short term mission team. For more info about Short Term Mission Teams click here.

12. I am under 18, can I still volunteer?

You may volunteer for FOL if you are under 18, provided you have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. However, Under 18s are not permitted to participate in Short Term Mission in Africa, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

13. Will I be reimbursed for expenses?

We do reimburse all reasonable out of pocket expenses incurred whilst volunteering for us, because we really value the contribution that you make.

14. I live abroad, can I still volunteer for FOL?

Unfortunately we cannot offer volunteer roles to those who live outside the UK and Ireland, as we would not be able to offer the same support, guidance and training that you need to carry out any given role.