February 20, 2020
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Apply and take the opportunity to coordinate an International Volunteer Project in Killarney National Park for 2 weeks in summer 2020!
Would you like to…
develop team management and project coordination skills?
experience an amazing adventure with a group of international volunteers (+18)?
contribute to building understanding among people from different cultures and nationalities?
If so, go on, apply!
Fill in the Project Coordinator Google Form or contact Mateja in VSI for more info!
Application deadline closes at midnight (12am) on the 8th of March 2020 and the shortlisting process will take place.
What we offer:
- Two-days training covering: group dynamics, cooperation in an international environment, project management, etc. (The training is free of charge for participants!)
- Access to educational materials and additional trainings in Ireland and abroad.
- Coordination of a project with accommodation, food and travel expenses to and from the volunteering site covered (within Ireland).
- VSI support before, during and after the project.
- Evaluation of your experience and your learning.
- Project Coordinator Certificate (after your participation in the project).
The role
The Coordinator's role involves volunteering with a group of Irish and international volunteers in Killarney National Park for 2 weeks during the summer. The Project Coordinator will help volunteers settle in, organise the group on a daily basis, support good group dynamics, promote intercultural exchange and help to organise free-time activities as well as educate volunteers on VSI’s values and topics such as environmental protection through non-formal education methods.
Projects dates
1st project: 14.06. - 27.06.
2nd project: 05.07. - 18.07.
3rd project: 02.08. - 15.08.
4th project: 16.08. - 29.08.
Requirements
- Over 21
- Have some volunteering experience
- Good communication and organisation skills
- Budgeting skills
- Enthusiasm and positive attitude
- Experience of working with international groups or running workshops would be useful as well as knowledge and some experience in youth work or the voluntary and community sector.
Project details
Project theme: Environment protection
Description: In the 19th century the rhododendron tree/bush (Rhododendron ponticum) was introduced and this has proved to be a highly invasive and destructive tree and has threatened to colonise large areas of the park. The rhododendron is threatening the bio diversity of the park and many native species of trees, shrubs, mosses are under threat.
Type of work: Volunteers will work on rhododendron control in remote areas of the park. This can involve stem treating mature plants with small tools, the picking of seedlings and cutting of saplings. National Park uses sharp tools (hatchets, loppers and secateurs) and a herbicide (diluted solution) as part of their strategy to control the rhododendron plants. The volunteers will be required to use these methods. Full training on the safe use of these methods and safety equipment will be provided by National Park.
Accommodation & food: In a modern hostel in the National Park itself. Dormitory style bedrooms; please bring your sleeping bag and a pillowcase. There are kitchen facilities in the hostel, food ingredients will be provided and the volunteers will share in the domestic duties of cooking and cleaning on a rota basis.
Requirements: The project work is based outdoors and that a substantial amount of time might be spent walking through mountain and forest areas each day. Volunteers need to be prepared to work outdoors in various weather conditions. As the terrain is quite difficult and tough, volunteers need to be fit enough to handle this. For example there could be up to a 60 minute uphill walk to the worksite over rough ground.
Notes: The midge fly is widespread in the park as well as ticks so volunteers must be prepared to use an insect repellent and wear a protective net when working. The park will provide nets, gloves and rubber boots. Volunteers are also required to wear long sleeves and trousers while working.
Total number of coordinators needed: 8 (2 for each project)
We are looking forward to your application!
Would you like to find out more about the role and the projects? Contact Mateja or give us a ring at +353 1 855 1011.
Photos by Peter O'Toole