Volunteer roles in greater london

Spark Joy: Become SUNSHINE's Programme and Event Coordinator!

Are you a master organiser with a flair for bringing people together? Do you thrive on creating engaging and heartwarming experiences? SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, starting out on our exciting journey and we're looking for an enthusiastic volunteer to fill a brand new role of Programme and Event Coordinator to help us get off the ground and truly shine!

We believe in the power of connection – of bringing people together to spread joy, build community spirit, and transform lives. From fostering new friendships to enhancing well-being, our mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, one meaningful connection at a time.

This is a unique opportunity to be at the heart of our community-building efforts. As our volunteer, Programme and Event Coordinator, you'll be instrumental in bringing our vision to life. You'll take the lead in planning, organising, and executing our programmes and events, starting off with monthly Coffee Mornings, ensuring they're welcoming, vibrant, and full of genuine connection. From brainstorming delightful themes to coordinating logistics and ensuring every detail sparkles, your creativity and organisational skills will directly foster the joy and community spirit that defines SUNSHINE.

Imagine the smiles you'll see, the laughter you'll hear, and the satisfaction of knowing you've created a space where people feel truly connected and uplifted. This isn't just volunteering; it's an invitation to be a community architect, a joy-spreader, and a vital force in making the world a little brighter, one wonderful event at a time.

Ready to help us light up the world with your amazing events? Join the SUNSHINE family today!

Share Our Story: Become SUNSHINE's Communications & Social Media Lead!

Are you a digital storyteller with a passion for connecting people? Do you thrive on crafting compelling messages and building vibrant online communities? SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, starting our exciting journey and we're looking for an inspiring Communications & Social Media Lead to help us get off the ground and truly shine!

We believe in the power of connection – of bringing people together to spread joy, build community spirit, and transform lives. From fostering new friendships to enhancing well-being, our mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, one meaningful connection at a time.

This is a unique opportunity to shape our voice and amplify our impact. As our volunteer, Communications & Social Media Lead, you'll be instrumental in telling SUNSHINE's story to the world. You'll take the lead in developing our communications strategy, managing our social media channels, crafting engaging content, and ensuring our message of joy and community reaches far and wide. Your creativity and expertise will be crucial in attracting volunteers, engaging our community, and inviting new participants to join our programmes and events.

Imagine the excitement of seeing our online community grow, the satisfaction of knowing your words are inspiring action, and the immense impact you'll have in bringing more SUNSHINE into people's lives. This isn't just volunteering; it's an invitation to be a brand ambassador, a community builder, and a vital force in making the world a little brighter, one compelling post at a time.

Ready to help us light up the world with your words? Join the SUNSHINE family today!

Inspire and Empower: Become SUNSHINE's Volunteer Coordinator!

Are you a people person with a knack for bringing out the best in others? Do you thrive on building connections and fostering a supportive team environment? SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, starting its exciting journey and we're looking for an inspiring volunteer to take on the brand new role of Volunteer Coordinator to help us get off the ground and truly shine!

We believe in the power of connection – of bringing people together to spread joy, build community spirit, and transform lives. From fostering new friendships to enhancing well-being, our mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, one meaningful connection at a time.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the heart of our organisation. As our volunteer, Volunteer Coordinator, you'll be instrumental in building and nurturing the incredible team that makes everything possible. You'll lead the charge in recruiting, selecting, training, and motivating our dedicated volunteers, ensuring they feel truly valued, supported, and an integral part of the SUNSHINE family. Your passion for people and your organisational skills will be key to ensuring our volunteers are effectively utilized and empowered to make the biggest impact.

Imagine the satisfaction of seeing individuals grow and flourish in their roles, the joy of building a vibrant and cohesive volunteer community, and the profound impact you'll have on both our volunteers and the lives they touch. This isn't just volunteering; it's an invitation to be a mentor, a community builder, and the enthusiastic heart of our mission.

Ready to inspire our incredible volunteers and help us light up the world? Join the SUNSHINE family today!

Lead with Heart: Become SUNSHINE's Charity Manager!

Are you an exceptional leader with a passion for positive change? Do you dream of using your management skills to build a thriving community and spread joy? SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, starting our exciting journey and we're looking for an inspiring Charity Manager to help us get off the ground and truly shine!

We believe in the power of connection – of bringing people together to spread joy, build community spirit, and transform lives. From fostering new friendships to enhancing well-being, our mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, one meaningful connection at a time.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a vital new organisation. As our volunteer, Charity Manager, you'll be instrumental in guiding our mission, supported every step of the way by our Founder and dedicated Board of Trustees. Your exceptional leadership skills will be crucial in managing our operations, coordinating our wonderful volunteers, and ensuring our programmes effectively bring people together and make a real difference.

Imagine the profound satisfaction of leading a team dedicated to spreading happiness, the pride of seeing our initiatives flourish under your guidance, and the immense impact you'll have on countless lives. This isn't just volunteering; it's an invitation to be a strategic leader, a community builder, and the driving force behind a truly heartwarming cause.

Ready to lead with heart and help us light up the world? Join the SUNSHINE family today!

Shape the Future: Become a Trustee for SUNSHINE!

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for positive change? Do you have the experience and vision to guide a brand new charity towards impactful success? SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, starting our exciting journey and we're looking for dedicated Trustees to help us get set up, registered, and truly shine!

We believe in the power of connection – of bringing people together to spread joy, build community spirit, and transform lives. From fostering new friendships to enhancing well-being, our mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, one meaningful connection at a time.

This is a unique opportunity to provide vital leadership and governance from the very beginning. As a volunteer Trustee, you'll play a crucial role in establishing SUNSHINE's foundations, ensuring our legal registration, and strategically overseeing our operations to guarantee long-term success. Your insights, experience, and commitment will be instrumental in shaping our direction, ensuring effective governance, and helping us make a profound difference in the community.

Imagine the immense satisfaction of seeing a new charity flourish under your guidance, the pride of knowing your strategic decisions are directly impacting lives, and the profound legacy you'll help build. This isn't just volunteering; it's an invitation to be a foundational pillar, a visionary leader, and a guiding force behind a truly heartwarming cause.

Ready to help us light up the world with your leadership? Join the SUNSHINE family today!

Be Our Financial Compass: Become SUNSHINE's Treasurer!

Are you a meticulous numbers whiz with a heart for community? Do you have a passion for ensuring financial integrity and guiding an organisation towards sustainable growth? SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, starting our exciting journey and we're looking for a dedicated Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and help us shine!

We believe in the power of connection – of bringing people together to spread joy, build community spirit, and transform lives. From fostering new friendships to enhancing well-being, our mission is to create a ripple effect of positivity, one meaningful connection at a time.

This is a crucial opportunity to shape the financial health of a vital new organisation. As our volunteer Treasurer, you'll be instrumental in setting up, managing, and controlling all our financial aspects. Working closely with the Founder and the Board, your expertise will be vital in ensuring our financial transparency, compliance, and strategic resource allocation. You'll help us manage budgets, oversee fundraising efforts, and ensure every penny goes towards spreading more SUNSHINE.

Imagine the satisfaction of building robust financial systems from the ground up, the pride of knowing your careful oversight directly enables our programmes to thrive, and the immense impact you'll have on countless lives. This isn't just volunteering; it's an invitation to be a financial architect, a guardian of our resources, and a strategic partner in bringing more joy to the world.

Ready to help us light up the world with your financial wisdom? Join the SUNSHINE family today!

Message from our Chair

''The Happy Baby Community is seeking a fundraising professional with expertise in income generation, particularly individual giving and statutory funding, to join our Board of Trustees. Established in 2014 and registered as a charity in 2019, the Happy Baby Community works across London supporting over 2,500 women who have fled trafficking and violence. We provide a safe and trusted space for new and pregnant mothers and their children to thrive through professional and practical services, training, and education. As we continue to extend our reach and develop our community model, sustainable income generation is critical to our mission. We are looking for an experienced fundraiser who can help us diversify our funding streams, build relationships with statutory funders, and develop our individual giving program to ensure we can continue supporting vulnerable women and their children. We are fundamentally committed to a user-led decision-making model and have done much over recent years to help our community members become involved in ongoing dialogue around governance. This is an opportunity to contribute to an organization that empowers a talented and committed group of women - benefiting them, their children, and the women who will join us in the future.

The Role

We are looking for a fundraising professional to join our Board and take up the following strategic responsibilities:

• Supporting our income generation strategy with a focus on sustainability

• Providing expertise on individual giving programs and donor development

• Advising on approaches to statutory funding opportunities (local authority, central government, NHS)

• Supporting the development of compelling cases for support aligned with our mission

• Helping establish robust fundraising governance and compliance frameworks

• Contributing to evolution of our impact measurement to strengthen funding applications

• Mentoring team members in fundraising approaches and best practices

• Contributing to overall governance and strategic development

Person Specification

We are looking for someone with significant experience in charity fundraising and income generation. Expertise in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valuable:

• Individual giving programs for medium-sized charities

• Statutory funding applications and relationship management

• Trust and foundation fundraising

• Major donor development

• Regular giving and membership programs

• Community fundraising initiatives

• Legacy giving campaigns

• Digital fundraising approaches

• Fundraising regulation and compliance

• Gift Aid optimization Experience working with refugee communities, trafficking survivors, or asylum seekers (either through lived experience, personally, or through paid/voluntary work) is desirable. Given the collaborative nature of our Board and our focus on leadership development, we are looking for someone who is a strong team player, value-driven, and an excellent communicator with the ability to explain fundraising concepts clearly to those without specialist knowledge.

Time Commitment and Location

• Board meetings take place in London 4 times a year during the day

• Fundraising committee meetings occur 4 times a year, ahead of every Board meeting

• Additional time for specific fundraising strategy development and review

• The Trustee role is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses are paid

Mentoring

Board members are encouraged to support one of the management team members in a mentoring capacity.

This role is designed to build charity fundraising skills and confidence among our community leaders. The mentoring usually takes the form of a regular check-in before Board meetings and any additional contact agreed by both parties. For a fundraising professional, this presents a valuable opportunity to share expertise and empower community members with sustainable income generation skills.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our Board so that it better represents the community we serve. We recognize the value of lived experience and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those currently underrepresented in our governance structure.

Expression of Interest

Applications should include a CV along with a short (no more than 2-page) and a short expression of interest covering:

• Your experience in charity fundraising, specifically with individual giving and statutory funding

• Your approach to sustainable income generation for medium-sized charities

• How your skills would strengthen our funding strategy and financial sustainability

• Your commitment to supporting the development of our community of mothers

Our Chair, along with one of our Management Committee community members, will liaise with applicants and conduct interviews. References and a DBS check will be required prior to appointment.

"All women and their children have an equal right to thrive and feel valued." summary of the role, what success in the position looks like, and how this role fits into the organization overall.

Message from our Chair:

''The Happy Baby Community is seeking a Human Resources professional with expertise in strategic people planning to join our Board of Trustees. Established in 2014 and registered as a charity in 2019, the Happy Baby Community works across London supporting over 2500 women who have fled trafficking and violence. We provide a safe and trusted space for new and pregnant mothers and their children to thrive through professional and practical services, training, and education. As we continue to extend our reach and develop our community model, strong HR leadership is essential to our growth and impact. We are entering a pivotal phase in our development where strategic people planning will be critical to sustaining our high-quality support services while nurturing the talent within our community. We are fundamentally committed to a user-led decision-making model and have done much over recent years to help our community members become involved in ongoing dialogue around governance. This is an opportunity to contribute to an organization that empowers a talented and committed group of women - benefiting them, their children, and the women who will join us in the future.''

The Role

We are looking for an HR professional to join our Board and take up the following responsibilities:

• Supporting the development of our people strategy to align with our mission and growth objectives

• Guiding our approach to talent development, particularly learning and development focused on leadership pathways for community members

• Advising on HR best practices, employment law, and compliance for the charity sector

• Contributing to organisational development including advising on staff engagement and related KPIs, and change management initiatives

• Helping establish robust performance management and staff wellbeing frameworks

• Supporting our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of our work

• Contributing to overall governance and strategic development.

Person Expertise

We are looking for someone with significant experience in human resources and strategic people planning. Expertise in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valuable:

• Charity sector HR management or consultancy

• Employment law specific to the charity/non-profit sector

• Organisational development and change management

• Talent acquisition and development strategies

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion program development

• Leadership development and succession planning

• Volunteer management frameworks

• Performance management systems

• Staff wellbeing and mental health support structures

Experience working with refugee communities, trafficking survivors, or asylum seekers (either through lived experience, personally, or through paid/voluntary work) is desirable. Given the collaborative nature of our Board and our focus on leadership development, we are looking for someone who is a strong team player, value-driven, and an excellent communicator.

Time Commitment and Location

• Board meetings take place in London 4 times a year during the day

• HR committee meetings occur 2-3 times a year as needed

• Additional time for specific HR projects and strategic planning sessions

• The Trustee role is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses are paid.

Mentoring

Board members are encouraged to support one of the management team members in a mentoring capacity. This role is designed to support their understanding of charity governance and build leadership skills. The mentoring usually takes the form of a regular check-in before Board meetings and any additional contact agreed by both parties. For an HR professional, this presents a valuable opportunity to directly empower community members with professional development.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to increasing the diversity of our Board so that it better represents the community we serve. We recognize the value of lived experience and welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those currently underrepresented in our governance structure.

Expression of Interest

Applications should include a CV along with a short (no more than 2-page) and a short expression of interest covering:

• Your interest in the role and experience in HR and strategic people planning

•Your commitment to supporting the development of our community of mothers

• How your skills would add value to the Board and our people development goals

• Your approach to empowering community members through mentoring and skills development

Our Chair and lead Trustee, along with one of our Management Committee and Community Leaders Board member will liaise with applicants and conduct interviews. References and a DBS check will be required prior to appointment. "All women and their children have an equal right to thrive and feel valued."

The Royal Society of Biology is seeking an independent audit expert (IAE) who will sit, in a voluntary capacity, on its Finance, Audit and Risk Committee.

Having responsibility for audit matters on the Committee, the IAE will ensure that the Committee members and RSB Council understand and respect audit -related matters, and will accordingly provide advice and counsel to the Committee, internal and external auditors, Chief Executive and Honorary Treasurer and other members of the senior management team.

Combined with a desire to support and contribute towards the effective running of a learned society, the successful candidate will have a thorough understanding of Charity governance and financial management, and a clear knowledge and appreciation of approaches and requirements for Charity audit, alongside an understanding of risk management and the principles and practice of good corporate governance.

The Committee meets four times per annum, with meetings typically lasting 2-3 hours - and at least half of these take place online. Attendance may also occasionally be required at other meetings.

Please note that this is a voluntary unremunerated role - although reasonable travel and subsistence related to the role can be claimed.

30 July 2025 with a concise CV (maximum two pages) and a brief covering letter laying out why you are interested and how you would like to apply your experience, skills and interests to the role.

Location: Remote
Department: Executive
Contract type: Fixed Term Contract
Hours: Part time, 4 board meetings per annum
Salary: Expenses only
 
Who they're looking for 
 
Our client is seeking a new Trustee with a background in veterinary or medical practice to support their Board and team in achieving their charitable aims. They are looking for someone who, in addition to their own expertise, has an interest in human-specific research approaches. This is a unique opportunity to join the country's leading animal-free medical research charity, where you will play a key role in helping to advance science to improve treatments for humans without the use of animals. You should have a strong interest in their mission and be willing to advocate on the charity’s behalf. Previous experience of being a Trustee is not necessary as a full induction and ongoing support will be provided. 
 
Equality, diversity and inclusion 
 
They want everyone we work with, as a colleague, volunteer, supporter, or stakeholder to feel included and that they belong. Our client is committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities they serve and ensuring inclusion in everything they do. They will support you to make sure that you bring your whole self and can be at your best. 
 
Board meetings and time commitment 
 
The Board ordinarily meets four times per year in March, May, August and November. Two of these meetings are held remotely via video call on a Saturday, and two are held in person in London across weekends. In addition, Trustees are encouraged to join a Committee relevant to their area of expertise which meets at least once per quarter via video call. An appropriate time commitment will be required over the course of the year for preparative work between meetings. Trustees are also invited to attend occasional charity events and join recruitment panels on an ad hoc basis. Following a probationary period where Trustee-elects attend at least 3 board meetings, appointed Trustees serve a three-year term, with the option to renew for a further three years. Trusteeship is an unremunerated position, though reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be paid. 
 
If this opportunity to join a small but ambitious charity appeals to you, and you have enthusiasm and a commitment to their vision of a world where animal-free, human specific technologies secure breakthroughs for patients then they'd like to hear from you.
 
You may also have experience in the following roles: Board Member, Non-Executive Director, Charity Trustee, Medical Advisor, Veterinary Advisor, Clinical Director, Medical Trustee, Healthcare Trustee, Scientific Advisor, Research Trustee, etc.
 
REF-222 147

We are delighted to currently be working alongside Animal Free Research UK to recruit their next Clinical Trustee. Animal Free Research UK works for a world where animals and humans lead healthy, happy lives, free from suffering. They support scientists to deliver better treatments for patients faster by championing the transition from animal-based to human-specific medical research.

Animal Free Research UK is now looking to strengthen their Board and is seeking a Clinical Trustee – a background in veterinary or medical practice to support the Animal Free Research UK Board and team in achieving their charitable aims. You will maintain an overview of the Charity’s clinical services and to offer advice and support to the CEO in the further development of the organisation’s clinical services.

Trustees have a duty to ensure that the charity is well run, solvent, legally compliant, and working towards the charitable purpose for which it was established, and Trustee roles are an important and highly rewarding way to support an organisation. Please note that Trustee roles are unremunerated voluntary positions, although reasonable travel expenses will be paid.

Animal Free Research UK is committed to equality of opportunity, supports, and encourages under-represented groups, and values diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed the existing Trustee's diversity, skills, and experience, Animal Free Research UK are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with and therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Please contact Heidi Earp, Director of Langton Not 4 Profit our retained consultants for further information on the role.

ReviveBattery

We mitigate the early death of lead-acid batteries and regenerate them 2-3 times for up to 90% of their original capacity.

At Revive Battery, we mitigate the early death of lead-acid batteries and regenerate them 2-3 times for up to 90% of their original capacity. In the process, we reduce 3.5 tons of Co2 emissions per battery. Battery recycling is an emission-intensive chemical process that causes environmental damage and harms people engaging with it. Our cutting-edge technology rejuvenates batteries without damaging them, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and avoiding the need for energy-intensive recycling. Lead-acid batteries are integral to battery backup systems in solar and wind farms, telecom towers, and data centres. They are also used widely in cars, forklifts, banks and ATM systems.

Sustainable Battery Regeneration

Battery recycling is an emission-intensive chemical process that causes environmental damage and harms people engaging with it. While recycling comes at the end of the battery’s life span, we mitigate their early death and regenerate them 2-3 times for up to 95% of their original capacity.

Fundraising Assistant

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Location: Remote Duration: 3–6 months Reports to: Fundraising Manager About Us: Revive Battery is a cutting-edge battery regeneration company dedicated to transforming the energy sector with sustainable solutions. We specialize in extending battery life, reducing waste, minimizing the environmental impact of lead-acid batteries through our innovative regeneration technology. and support a global transition to circular energy systems. We're seeking a motivated Fundraising Intern to support our efforts in securing grants, partnerships, and investments to scale our impact. We welcome Erasmus+ and international student interns who are passionate about sustainability to join our mission-driven team. Role Summary: As a Fundraising Intern, you will play a key role in identifying, researching, and supporting the development of funding opportunities, including grants, donor partnerships, and investment outreach. This position offers hands-on experience in social impact fundraising and strategic development within a fast-paced start-up environment. Key Responsibilities: Research and track potential funding opportunities including grants, accelerators, and impact investors Assist in drafting proposals, pitch decks, LOIs (Letters of Intent), and application materials Maintain a database of contacts, deadlines, and application statuses Support internal reporting and impact documentation for existing donors Attend and take notes on partnership calls or webinars related to fundraising Collaborate with communications or marketing teams to align messaging for funders Provide administrative support for fundraising campaigns and donor communications

Requirements: Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in International Development, Business, Communications, Environmental Studies, or related field Strong research, writing, and communication skills Familiarity with fundraising, grants, or start-up funding is a plus Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple deadlines

Proficient in Google Workspace ; knowledge of CRM tools is an asset Passion for sustainability, climate action, or circular economy is highly desirable What We Offer: Hands-on learning experience with real-world fundraising exposure Flexible working hours and remote-friendly culture Opportunity to contribute to impactful sustainability work Mentorship and professional development support Certificate of completion and reference upon successful internship.

Weekly Time Commitment

10+ hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

3-5 months

Jabalie

Jabalie is a UK charity working internationally with survivors and individuals that are at high risk of gender-based violence.

“Gender-based violence” (GBV) is violence or abuse that is directed against a person or community because of their gender identity or expression, or the violence or abuse affects persons of a particular gender disproportionately. Gender-based violence affects people of all genders, including women and girls, men and boys, transgender individuals, and non-binary people. However, women and girls are disproportionately affected.

Some key statistics include: • One in three women and girls globally will experience some form of violence in their lifetime. • One in four men globally have experienced sexual or physical violence by an intimate partner. • One in four LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced violence or abuse by an intimate partner.

Many victims feel unable to leave their relationship and for those that do, many return to their abuser for a variety of reasons - for example, because they are financially dependent on them, or remain emotionally controlled by them. It takes an average of 7 times for a victim to leave an abusive relationship permanently.

Jabalie is a UK charity that aims to educate and empower survivors and individuals at high-risk of gender-based violence to promote their safety, autonomy and economic independence. We are developing an education and empowerment programme to help build survivors' knowledge, skills and confidence so they can build their lives outside the shelter and become financially independent.

The programme will have 5 areas: (1) Understanding GBV; (2) Skills Development; (3) Legal Rights; (4) Women's Health; and (5) Mental Health. We will also have a training of trainers programme, advocacy against GBV, and are building a community of survivors and GBV activists. I've attached our Strategic Plan 2024-27 with further details.

Our pilot programme will be created in the UK and Kenya using a model that can be upscaled internationally.

We provide an education and empowerment programme, training, advocacy and a community platform.

We are partnering with local community organisations to deliver the programme to communities.

Marketing Strategist

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Jabalie is a UK charity that aims to educate and empower survivors and individuals at high-risk of gender-based violence to promote their safety, autonomy and economic independence.

We are a small charity that is entirely volunteer-led. We are therefore seeking a proactive volunteer to assist our Marketing and Communications Trustee in building the marketing, communications and branding strategy for Jabalie.

This role includes:

• Creating a social media strategy and content calendar to raise our brand awareness;
• Pitching ideas for social media posts related to raising awareness of gender-based violence and the other areas of our work (skills development, legal rights, women's health and mental health);
• Creating and overseeing marketing campaigns to boost engagement and reach donors for fundraising;
• Conducting market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitor activities;
• Ensuring brand consistency across all social media channels;
• Analysing marketing data to track performance and optimise future strategies; and
• Delegating tasks to other Marketing Team volunteers, including graphic designs and content writers.

As a small organisation, we are looking for a volunteer that has a few hours per week to commit to this role. The time commitment will likely reduce once we have made progress with our strategy. The period of volunteering is flexible, but we will prioritise applicants that would like to commit to 6 months or more.

We look forward to receiving your applications!

Weekly Time Commitment

2-3 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months

Yemaya Surf

We create space and opportunity for Dominicans, especially Black & Indigenous women and girls, to reclaim their right to the ocean through surfing, cultural reconnection, and climate justice.

The north coast of the Dominican Republic is home to world-renowned waves and surf beaches. It is also home to a long and painful history of colonialism, exclusion, and ecological disruption. In 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in what is now Puerto Plata—where Cabarete, the island’s surf capital, is located. More than 500 years later, that legacy continues to shape who has access to the ocean, whose knowledge is valued, and who benefits from its economic, cultural, and healing power.

In Cabarete today, surfing is dominated by foreigners and men. Despite living near the sea, Black Dominican women and girls are largely excluded from ocean sports, environmental decision-making, and leadership opportunities. Of the 30+ surf instructors at Playa Encuentro, only three are women—and just one is a local Dominican. While the Dominican government has branded Cabarete as the country’s “Capital of Surf,” local communities face barriers at every level: surfboards and lessons are priced for tourists, beachfront access is restricted by private developments, and the sport’s culture often feels unwelcoming or unsafe for women and people of color.

This disparity is not coincidental—it is systemic. Tourism and coastal development in the Dominican Republic have prioritized profit over people, often displacing low-income communities from their ancestral shorelines. Surf beach entrances are illegally closed to favor tourists. One surf lesson can cost up to $65 USD, with board rentals priced at $20 per hour—far beyond what most Dominicans can afford. Gender norms, racism, and cultural stigma further prevent Afro-Dominican and Indigenous women and girls from feeling safe, confident, or supported in ocean spaces. At the same time, climate change is wreaking havoc across the country. Hurricanes and heavy rains regularly displace entire coastal neighborhoods, while government inaction and deforestation by foreign-owned corporations exacerbate the crisis. The burden of climate adaptation falls on local communities, especially low-income women, who are often excluded from climate conversations, planning, and resources.

Yemaya Surf exists to shift this reality.

Yemaya Surf integrates sports, cultural healing, and climate action to produce long-term, structural change in who has access to coastal spaces and who shapes environmental solutions. We prioritize community-led environmental care, Afro-Indigenous spiritual practices, and environmental stewardship.

Yemaya Surf's Theory of Change

We believe that when Black Dominican women and girls reclaim the ocean through surfing and ancestral wisdom, they heal, empower themselves, and challenge systemic exclusion. By centering their leadership in surf culture and coastal stewardship, we transform the sea from a site of historical marginalization into a space of liberation, climate justice, and collective power.

Yemaya Surf’s activities include:

• Delivering surf lessons and climate education workshops
• Leading reforestation projects and sponsoring local surfers
• Hosting community events and workshops to promote environmental stewardship and climate justice
• Building partnerships with local organizations and communities to advance our mission and goals

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Yemaya Surf! We’re deeply grateful you’d consider sharing your time and talents to empower women and girls through surf and climate justice.

Why Your Role Matters: Every hour you give helps us:

��‍♀️ Teach lifesaving surf skills to local girls who’ve never had access. �� Amplify climate justice in coastal communities. ✨ Build a movement where every girl and woman feels welcome in the waves.

We’re a small but mighty team, and volunteers like you are the heartbeat of our work. Whether you’re editing videos, researching grants, or helping at events, your contribution ripples far beyond the beach.

Fundraising & Grants Assistant

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Role: Help secure financial resources through grants, sponsorships, and donor outreach while setting up efficient fundraising tools. Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising Systems Setup:

• Assist in finalizing GiveButter fundraising platform setup (e.g., campaign pages, donor management features).

• Integrate GiveButter with SquareSpace website (e.g., embed donation buttons, ensure seamless donor experience).

• Test donation workflows to troubleshoot issues (e.g., receipt automation, data tracking).

Grants & Sponsorships:

• Research and compile grant opportunities (gender equity, sports, climate justice).

• Draft templated outreach to surf/environmental brands (e.g., sponsorship proposals via email/LinkedIn).

Donor & Merchandise Support:

• Help manage recurring donation campaigns (e.g., thank-you emails, impact updates).

• Support merchandise sales (SquareSpace store setup, inventory tracking, promo ideas).

Reporting & Improvement:

• Generate simple donor reports (GiveButter analytics) to track progress.

• Suggest improvements for donor engagement (e.g., referral rewards, campaign ideas).

Skills Needed:

• Basic tech savvy (comfort with platforms like GiveButter, SquareSpace, or Canva).

• Attention to detail (for error-free donation workflows).

  • Interest in nonprofit fundraising or CRM tools.

Perks:

• Hands-on experience with fundraising tech (resume booster).
• Direct impact on Yemaya’s financial growth.
• Experience with an International Nonprofit Organization
• Free surf lessons (if and when in the Dominican Republic)

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

1-2 months