Remote volunteer roles

African Development Choices (ADC) is a UK-registered charity on a mission to reduce poverty by empowering communities to make more informed choices in the management of public resources.

ADC’s purpose is to enable communities to independently meet their needs for essential services, such as clean water and safe sanitation, and improve lives in Africa.

At ADC we encourage a working culture of seeking and giving input, showing and taking initiative, and commitment to the organisation and its purpose.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a volunteer Senior AI Agent Architect to join ADC and help build a live prototype of MajiGuard AI.

Main purpose of job:

To lead the technical design and hands-on development of MajiGuard AI, an agentic AI prototype that helps ADC identify underused WASH resources, structure recovery and reallocation cases, and verify that recovered value reaches facility upgrades and operations and maintenance.

Division: Technology / AI Innovation

Department: Product & Engineering

Position reports to: Head of AI Innovation

Direct reports for the position: Volunteer AI engineers, developers and technical contributors

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead the end-to-end architecture of MajiGuard AI, including the selection and integration of models, agent workflows, orchestration tools, retrieval systems, data structures and human-in-the-loop controls appropriate for a live prototype.

• Translate ADC’s operational goals into practical AI workflows, especially for identifying underused WASH resources, standardising evidence and case preparation, supporting recovery and reallocation decisions, and verifying delivery of value to facility improvements and ongoing operations and maintenance.

• Build and iterate a live prototype using pragmatic, cost-effective tooling, with strong attention to reliability, traceability, security, maintainability and ease of future scaling.

• Design structured inputs, prompts, evaluation criteria and decision logic so that outputs are useful to non-technical ADC teams working across programmes, research, partnerships and leadership.

• Establish a technical roadmap for the prototype, including architecture choices, milestone planning, testing priorities, deployment options and documentation for future funders, partners and developers.

• Work closely with ADC leadership to shape the product vision and ensure the prototype aligns with ADC’s wider governance and public service innovation model.

• Advise on suitable approaches for data governance, privacy, model risk, hallucination control, auditability and responsible AI use in the context of public-resource management and service delivery.

• Define and monitor prototype success metrics, including usefulness, accuracy, turnaround time, workflow fit, and operational learning that can strengthen grant applications, partnerships and future product development.

• Support the transition from local experimentation to a live prototype environment, including basic cloud or hosted deployment thinking, version control practices and engineering handover readiness.

• Mentor and coordinate other volunteer technical contributors where relevant, helping ADC build a small but high-quality AI capability around MajiGuard AI.

Knowledge, skills, and experience:

Essential

• 8+ years of relevant experience in AI, machine learning, applied NLP, intelligent automation, agentic systems, or modern software engineering for production-grade data or AI products

• Strong hands-on experience designing and building AI systems, including LLM-based applications, retrieval-augmented generation, agent workflows, orchestration frameworks, evaluation pipelines and API integrations

• Experience taking ideas from concept or prototype stage into a usable live product, pilot or production-like environment

• Excellent technical judgement on model selection, system design trade-offs, latency, reliability, observability and cost-conscious engineering

• Strong programming ability, ideally including Python and modern backend tooling, with the ability to work across architecture, implementation and troubleshooting

• Experience designing structured workflows where AI outputs must be reviewable, auditable and useful for operational decision-making
• Ability to simplify complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders and translate mission goals into practical product choices
• Interest in using AI to strengthen public service delivery, accountability, governance, resource allocation, or adjacent social impact problems
• Ability to actively take initiative and help set things up in a start-up environment
• Ability to actively seek and give input in a collaborative team environment
• A committed team player with good communication skills
• Available to volunteer at least 8-12 hours a week

Desirable

• Experience with agentic AI products involving workflow automation, task routing, multi-step reasoning, document intelligence or evidence-based case management
• Experience with cloud deployment, containerisation, CI/CD, databases, vector stores, authentication and production monitoring for AI systems
• Experience working on civic tech, govtech, development, WASH, infrastructure, audit, compliance or public-finance-related products
• Experience working in an early-stage start-up or mission-driven organisation and comfortable operating with ambiguity
• Experience mentoring engineers or leading small technical teams across different locations and time zones

What ADC Offers You

This is a volunteer, remote and unpaid position with the following benefits:

• A chance to play a foundational role in shaping MajiGuard AI from concept into a live prototype with real strategic relevance to ADC’s mission
• An opportunity to apply advanced AI and product-building skills to a meaningful public-interest challenge connected to WASH, accountability and service delivery in Africa
• An opportunity to work with a diverse global team and contribute to an organisation seeking systemic social change
• Professional learning, leadership and portfolio-building opportunities through high-ownership work
• Work reference provided

This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.

Here at African Development Choices, we celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our teams are made up of people from all over the world and we welcome all applications. If you are disabled or have a long-term health condition, and you require any reasonable adjustments for your application with us, please let us know by contacting recruitment(at)africandevelopmentchoices(dot)org.

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons.

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace

Join us in leading positive change!

About the position

The role provides you with flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary, specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Study design briefs and determine requirements.
• Schedule projects and define budget constraints.
• Conceptualize visuals based on requirements.
• Prepare rough drafts and present ideas.
• Develop illustrations, logos and other designs using software or by hand.
• Use the appropriate colours and layouts for each graphic.
• Work with copywriters and creative director to produce final design.
• Test graphics across various media.
• Amend designs after feedback.
• Ensure final graphics and layouts are visually appealing and on-brand.
• General tasks
• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• Proven graphic designing experience.
• A portfolio of illustrations or another graphics / CV
• Familiarity with design software and technologies (such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Suite)
• Flexibility and openness to work on a variety of tasks.
• Focused, organised and able to prioritise and execute tasks independently.
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• A keen eye for aesthetics and details
• Excellent communication skills
• Degree in Design, Fine Arts or related field is a plus.

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

To telephone befriendees at their home for approximately 10 to 30 minutes, you will arrange the specific times of your future calls directly with them. These calls are intended to occur once a week, but individual needs will be matched with your availability.To provide a telephone conversation, a listening ear and chat about interests and hobbies, helping to alleviate loneliness and feelings of isolation. To provide companionship and human interaction at a time when this may be limited. To provide an update after each call to the Telephone Befriending support Team. This is so we can keep a track of the amount of befriending calls each volunteer is undertaking, the type of support being offered during these calls and if there is anything further required.

It is important to note telephone befriending is not counselling or therapy and other services must be sought if this is required.

Benefits

• FREE DBS.
• Discounted food.
• Store discount.
• Volunteer from home.
• Above all you will be making a positive difference in your befriendee’s life.
• As a volunteer telephone befriender, you will learn how to support others, make friends, become more confident, and practice communication skills.
• You will gain new and transferable skills. We offer support for you to increase your own job-readiness and personal development.
• Training opportunities,
• Volunteering experience
• Detailed references will be provided.

​

Graphic Designer (Volunteer Role)

Organisation: The Lysene Foundation

Location: Remote (global)

Time Commitment: Fully flexible to suit your time and availability

About the Lysene Foundation

The Lysene Foundation is a start‑up charitable organisation inspired by the micronation known as the Principality of Lys — a creative community rooted in the classical arts, architecture, and beauty of the French Renaissance, Baroque, Beaux‑Arts, and the age of Humanism and Enlightenment.

We believe in a new Renaissance for Europe and the wider world. Our mission is to bring the cultural and community spirit of Lys to life through accessible public programmes, including community events, educational initiatives, exhibitions, publications, artistic opportunities, and more.

All activities and resources are open to the public without restriction.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a talented and imaginative Graphic Designer to help shape the visual identity of the foundation. This volunteer role is ideal for someone who loves classical aesthetics, elegant design, and creating beautiful visual materials that bring cultural ideas to life.

You will work closely with our Creative Director and Marketing team to produce graphics for digital platforms, publications, events, and campaigns. Your work will play a key role in defining how the world sees and experiences the spirit of Lys.

This is a wonderful opportunity to contribute creatively to a cultural organisation at an early stage.

Key Responsibilities

• Create high‑quality visual assets for social media, website content, newsletters, and campaigns.

• Support the development of branding materials, templates, and style guidelines.

• Design graphics for events, programmes, exhibitions, and educational initiatives.

• Collaborate with the Creative Director to ensure visual coherence across all outputs.

• Produce illustrations, layouts, and promotional materials aligned with the classical aesthetic of Lys.

• Work with the Marketing team to translate ideas into compelling visual content.

• Maintain organised design files and contribute to a growing visual asset library.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in graphic design, visual communication, or a related creative field.

• Strong portfolio demonstrating design skills and aesthetic sensitivity.

• Proficiency with design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Affinity, Canva, or similar.

• Ability to work within a defined visual style while contributing fresh ideas.

• Interest in classical art, architecture, culture, or heritage is a bonus.

• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate with a creative team.

• Reliable, organised, and comfortable working independently in a remote environment.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to help shape the visual identity of a global cultural foundation.

• Experience designing for a wide range of creative and cultural projects.

• A portfolio of meaningful, mission‑driven work.

• A supportive, imaginative environment where your ideas genuinely matter.

• A reference after a minimum of 6 months commitment to our Foundation.

Time Commitment

Fully remote, with flexibility around your schedule.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, portfolio, and a short statement explaining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring to the foundation.

We Are Lys

We Are The Lysene Foundation

Creative Director (Volunteer Role)

Organisation: The Lysene Foundation

Location: Remote (global)

Time Commitment: Approx. 8 hours per month

About the Lysene Foundation

The Lysene Foundation is a start‑up charitable organisation inspired by the micronation known as the Principality of Lys — a creative community rooted in the classical arts, architecture, and beauty of the French Renaissance, Baroque, Beaux‑Arts, and the age of Humanism and Enlightenment.

We believe in a new Renaissance for Europe and the wider world. Our mission is to bring the cultural and community spirit of Lys to life through accessible public programmes, including community events, educational initiatives, exhibitions, publications, artistic opportunities, and more.

All activities and resources are open to the public without restriction.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an imaginative, visionary, and highly skilled Creative Director to lead the artistic and aesthetic direction of the foundation. This is a senior volunteer role ideal for someone who is passionate about classical beauty, cultural heritage, and the power of visual storytelling.

You will shape the creative identity of the foundation, oversee the development of visual and artistic materials, and ensure that all programmes, publications, and communications reflect the cultural spirit of Lys. As we grow, you will build and lead a creative department including designers, artists, writers, and content creators.

This is a rare opportunity to define the artistic soul of a cultural foundation at an early stage.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the foundation’s creative vision, ensuring aesthetic coherence across all outputs.

• Oversee the creation of visual assets, branding materials, illustrations, and artistic content.

• Guide the creative direction of programmes, exhibitions, publications, and digital media.

• Collaborate closely with the Heads of Marketing, Programmes, and Partnerships to ensure creative alignment.

• Establish creative standards, templates, and style guidelines rooted in the artistic traditions that inspire Lys.

• Provide direction and feedback to designers, writers, and other creative volunteers.

• Lead the development of campaigns, visual narratives, and cultural storytelling initiatives.

• Build and manage a creative team as the foundation grows.

• Ensure all creative work reflects the foundation’s mission, values, and classical aesthetic.

• Support innovation while maintaining a strong connection to the artistic heritage that defines Lys.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in creative direction, visual design, art direction, or a related field.

• Strong portfolio demonstrating artistic vision and aesthetic sensitivity.

• Deep appreciation for classical art, architecture, and cultural heritage.

• Ability to develop and maintain a cohesive visual identity.

• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

• Ability to guide and inspire creative contributors.

• Comfortable working in a start‑up environment where systems are built from scratch.

• A collaborative, thoughtful, and imaginative approach.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to define the creative identity of a global cultural foundation.

• Senior‑level leadership experience within a growing organisation.

• The opportunity to shape artistic direction, visual storytelling, and long‑term cultural impact.

• A creative, mission‑driven environment where your ideas genuinely matter.

• A meaningful role that strengthens your CV and professional profile, with a reference after a minimum of 6 months commitment to our Foundation.

Time Commitment

Approx. 8 hours per month, fully remote, with flexibility around your schedule.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, portfolio (if available), and a short statement explaining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring to the foundation.

We Are Lys

We Are The Lysene Foundation

Head of Programmes & Events (Volunteer Role)

Organisation: The Lysene Foundation

Location: Remote (global)

Time Commitment: Approx. 8 hours per month

About the Lysene Foundation

The Lysene Foundation is a start‑up charitable organisation inspired by the micronation known as the Principality of Lys — a creative community rooted in the classical arts, architecture, and beauty of the French Renaissance, Baroque, Beaux‑Arts, and the age of Humanism and Enlightenment.

We believe in a new Renaissance for Europe and the wider world. Our mission is to bring the cultural and community spirit of Lys to life through accessible public programmes, including community events, educational initiatives, exhibitions, publications, artistic opportunities, and more.

All activities and resources are open to the public without restriction.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a creative, organised, and visionary Head of Programmes & Events to design and lead the foundation’s cultural and educational activities. This is a senior volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys shaping meaningful public experiences, curating cultural content, and bringing ideas to life through events and programmes.

You will develop our programme strategy, design a diverse calendar of events and initiatives, and oversee their delivery with the support of volunteers and partner organisations. As we grow, you will build and lead a dedicated programmes and events team.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the cultural output of a new foundation from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the foundation’s global programmes and events strategy.

• Design a varied programme of cultural, educational, and community activities aligned with our mission.

• Oversee planning, coordination, and delivery of events, workshops, exhibitions, talks, and public initiatives.

• Collaborate with artists, educators, cultural partners, and internal teams to create high‑quality programming.

• Establish processes, templates, and best‑practice frameworks for programme delivery.

• Manage programme timelines, budgets (where applicable), and volunteer involvement.

• Evaluate programme impact and continuously refine offerings.

• Build and lead a programmes and events team as the foundation grows.

• Work closely with senior leadership to ensure programmes support organisational goals.

• Ensure all activities reflect the aesthetic and cultural values of the Principality of Lys.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in programme development, event management, arts administration, education, or cultural production.

• Strong organisational and project‑management skills.

• Creative thinker with the ability to turn ideas into well‑structured, engaging experiences.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to design systems and processes in a start‑up environment.

• Passion for arts, culture, education, or heritage.

• A supportive, inclusive leadership style.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to build a global cultural programme from the ground up.

• Senior‑level leadership experience within a growing cultural foundation.

• The opportunity to shape public engagement, artistic direction, and long‑term impact.

• A creative, mission‑driven environment where your ideas genuinely matter.

• A meaningful role that strengthens your CV and professional profile, with a reference after a minimum of 6 months commitment to our Foundation.

Time Commitment

Approx. 8 hours per month, fully remote, with flexibility around your schedule.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short statement explaining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring to the foundation.

We Are Lys

We Are The Lysene Foundation

Head of Operations (Volunteer Role)

Organisation: The Lysene Foundation

Location: Remote (global)

Time Commitment: Approx. 8 hours per month

About the Lysene Foundation

The Lysene Foundation is a start‑up charitable organisation inspired by the micronation known as the Principality of Lys — a creative community rooted in the classical arts, architecture, and beauty of the French Renaissance, Baroque, Beaux‑Arts, and the age of Humanism and Enlightenment.

We believe in a new Renaissance for Europe and the wider world. Our mission is to bring the cultural and community spirit of Lys to life through accessible public programmes, including community events, educational initiatives, exhibitions, publications, artistic opportunities, and more.

All activities and resources are open to the public without restriction.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly organised, strategic, and solutions‑driven Head of Operations to build and oversee the operational backbone of the foundation. This is a senior volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys creating structure, designing systems, and ensuring that a growing organisation runs smoothly and efficiently.

You will establish our operational frameworks, develop internal processes, and support the coordination of teams across the foundation. As we grow, you will build and lead an operations department, ensuring that our programmes, volunteers, and leadership have the systems they need to thrive.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the operational future of a cultural charity at an early stage.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the foundation’s operational strategy, systems, and workflows.

• Create and maintain organisational policies, procedures, and best‑practice frameworks.

• Oversee internal coordination across departments, ensuring smooth communication and alignment.

• Support project planning, scheduling, and cross‑team collaboration.

• Establish tools and platforms for internal operations (project management, documentation, communication).

• Monitor organisational performance and identify opportunities for improvement.

• Work closely with senior leadership to ensure operations support strategic goals.

• Build and lead an operations team as the foundation grows.

• Ensure compliance with relevant governance, data protection, and safeguarding standards.

• Support risk management, reporting, and organisational planning.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in operations, project management, organisational development, or a related field.

• Strong ability to design systems, processes, and structures in a start‑up environment.

• Excellent organisational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.

• Confident using digital tools and platforms to streamline workflows.

• A proactive, hands‑on approach with strong attention to detail.

• Ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams.

• Passion for arts, culture, education, or heritage is a bonus.

• A calm, supportive leadership style.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to build the operational foundations of a global cultural organisation.

• Senior‑level leadership experience within a growing foundation.

• The opportunity to shape systems, strategy, and long‑term organisational impact.

• A creative, mission‑driven environment where your ideas genuinely matter.

• A meaningful role that strengthens your CV and professional profile, with a reference after a minimum of 6 months commitment to our Foundation.

Time Commitment

Approx. 8 hours per month, fully remote, with flexibility around your schedule.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short statement explaining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring to the foundation.

We Are Lys

We Are The Lysene Foundation

Head of Marketing and Communications (Volunteer Role)

Organisation: The Lysene Foundation

Location: Remote (global)

Time Commitment: Approx. 8 hours per month

About the Lysene Foundation

The Lysene Foundation is a start‑up charitable organisation inspired by the micronation known as the Principality of Lys — a creative community rooted in the classical arts, architecture, and beauty of the French Renaissance, Baroque, Beaux‑Arts, and the age of Humanism and Enlightenment.

We believe in a new Renaissance for Europe and the wider world. Our mission is to bring the cultural and community spirit of Lys to life through accessible public programmes, including community events, educational initiatives, exhibitions, publications, artistic opportunities, and more.

All activities and resources are open to the public without restriction.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a visionary and strategic Head of Marketing and Communications to build and lead our global communications function. This is a senior volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys shaping brand identity, crafting compelling narratives, and establishing a strong public presence for a cultural organisation at an early stage.

You will design and launch our marketing and communications strategy, develop our brand voice, and oversee all public‑facing messaging across digital, print, and community channels. As we grow, you will build and lead a dedicated communications team.

This is a rare opportunity to define the public identity of a cultural foundation from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the foundation’s global marketing and communications strategy.

• Establish a clear, compelling brand identity aligned with our mission and aesthetic values.

• Oversee all external communications, including website content, newsletters, press releases, and social media.

• Create and manage content calendars, campaigns, and storytelling initiatives.

• Lead the development of marketing materials, visual assets, and promotional resources.

• Build and manage a communications team, including future volunteer writers, designers, and social media leads.

• Develop media relationships and seek opportunities for press coverage and partnerships.

• Ensure consistent, high‑quality messaging across all platforms and programmes.

• Monitor performance metrics and continuously refine communications strategies.

• Work closely with senior leadership to support organisational goals and public engagement.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in marketing, communications, branding, PR, or digital media.

• Strong understanding of content strategy, audience engagement, and storytelling.

• Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills.

• Ability to create structure, processes, and systems in a start‑up environment.

• Strategic thinker with a hands‑on, proactive approach.

• Passion for arts, culture, education, or heritage is a bonus.

• A collaborative, supportive leadership style.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to build a global marketing and communications function from the ground up.

• Senior‑level leadership experience within a growing cultural foundation.

• The opportunity to shape brand identity, public voice, and long‑term impact.

• A creative, mission‑driven environment where your ideas genuinely matter.

• A meaningful role that strengthens your CV and professional profile, with a reference after a minimum of 6 months commitment to our Foundation.

Time Commitment

Approx. 8 hours per month, fully remote, with flexibility around your schedule.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short statement explaining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring to the foundation.

We Are Lys

We Are The Lysene Foundation

Head of Volunteering (Volunteer Role)

Organisation: The Lysene Cultural Foundation

Location: Remote (global)

Time Commitment: Approx. 8 hours per month

About the Lysene Foundation

The Lysene Cultural Foundation is a start‑up charitable organisation inspired by the micronation known as the Principality of Lys — a creative community rooted in the classical arts, architecture, and beauty of the French Renaissance, Baroque, Beaux‑Arts, and the age of Humanism and Enlightenment.

We believe in a new Renaissance for Europe and the wider world. Our mission is to bring the cultural and community spirit of Lys to life through accessible public programmes, including community events, educational initiatives, exhibitions, publications, artistic opportunities, and more.

All activities and resources are open to the public without restriction.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a visionary and highly organised Head of Volunteering to establish and lead our global volunteering function. This is a senior volunteer role ideal for someone who enjoys building systems from scratch, shaping culture, and empowering people.

You will design and launch our volunteering programme, create the systems and processes that underpin it, and lead the recruitment, onboarding and retention of volunteers across the foundation. As we grow, you will build and oversee a dedicated volunteer department.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a cultural charity at an early stage.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the foundation’s global volunteering strategy.

• Create volunteer systems, processes, policies, and best‑practice frameworks.

• Design volunteer role descriptions, onboarding pathways, training materials, and engagement methods.

• Lead the recruitment, selection, onboarding, and retention of volunteers across all teams.

• Establish a positive, inclusive, and inspiring volunteer culture aligned with our mission and values.

• Set up and manage a volunteer management system (VMS) and reporting processes.

• Build and lead a volunteer department, including future volunteer team leads.

• Work closely with senior leadership to ensure volunteering supports organisational goals.

• Monitor, evaluate, and continuously improve the volunteering programme.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in volunteer management, HR, people operations, or organisational development.

• Strong understanding of volunteer recruitment, engagement, and retention.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to create structure, processes, and systems in a start‑up environment.

• Strategic thinker with a hands‑on, proactive approach.

• Passion for arts, culture, education, or heritage is a bonus.

• A collaborative, supportive leadership style.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to build a global volunteering programme from the ground up.

• Senior‑level leadership experience within a growing cultural foundation.

• The opportunity to shape culture, strategy, and long‑term impact.

• A creative, mission‑driven environment where your ideas genuinely matter.

• A meaningful role that strengthens your CV and professional profile, with a reference after a minimum of 6 months committment to our Foundation.

Time Commitment

Approx. 8 hours per month, fully remote, with flexibility around your schedule.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short statement explaining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring to the foundation.

We Are Lys

We Are The Lysene Foundation

Purpose

The Chair leads the board of Trustees, ensuring the charity is well-governed, fulfils its mission, complies with all legal and regulatory requirements, and operates in the best interests of its beneficiaries. The Chair works closely with the Executive Director to provide strategic leadership, support, and challenge.

Background to the Charity

For the past forty years, CHIRP has enabled thousands of people to report safety concerns through our confidential reporting service without fear of identification or harming their careers, contributing to safer environments in the air and at sea. This service has evolved to meet changing needs and is still providing a unique, vital and valuable service to people working in the aviation and maritime industries.

Over the past year a new strategy has been developed focusing on:

- unlocking the barriers to reporting for those who are working in the most challenging situations;

- building coalitions for system change in safety culture and practice;

- embedding best practice safety cultures with employers; and,

- engaging new and future generations.

We also seek to further the impact of the charity by ensuring future sustainability.

We have an excellent, highly motivated team, a committed and skilled Board and a well-earned reputation for being a trustworthy and willing organisation there to help and make a difference, all of which makes this is an exciting time to join the board in this leadership role. Guided by the values of trust and integrity, safety and accountability, a just culture and expertise and collaboration we know we can make an even greater difference in improving safety culture, practice and learning. To do this, and building on the excellence of the past, we will need a Chair who is collaborative, courageous, visionary and strategic, who understands the fundraising and financing challenges of today’s charity sector and who comes with experience of building sustainability and resilience. These foundations will enable the charity to achieve its ambitious plans for future growth.

If these opportunities are what you are looking for and your values align with ours, then please read on for more details about the role and the commitment we are seeking.

Principal responsibilities

Strategic leadership

· Ensure the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic plan, and that these are regularly reviewed.

· Lead the board in setting and monitoring the charity’s strategic direction.

· Safeguard the charity’s values and reputation.

Governance

· Ensure the board fulfils its duties under charity law, company law (if applicable), and the charity’s governing document.

· Promote high standards of governance and encourage all trustees to actively contribute.

· Ensure the board operates effectively, with appropriate policies, procedures, and controls in place to manage risk and promote the objectives of the charity.

· Ensure that the board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.

Board Leadership

· Chair board meetings effectively, encouraging open, balanced discussion and consensus decision-making.

· Ensure meetings are focused, productive, and quorate.

· Support recruitment, induction, and development of trustees.

· Manage trustee performance and address underperformance where necessary.

Relationship with the Executive Director

· Build a partnership with the Executive Director based on shared purpose, offering support and challenge in the interests of the charity.

· Understand appropriate separation of governance and management.

· Conduct the Executive Director’s annual appraisal and support their professional development.

 External Relations

· When required act as an ambassador for the charity, representing it to funders, partners, government, and the public.

· When appropriate support fundraising, advocacy, and profile-raising activities when appropriate.

Additional information

The above list is indicative only and not exhaustive. The Chair will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonably commensurate with the role.

Penificent is a creative education and youth publishing organisation using comics and workshops to tackle complex issues affecting young people,from mental health and identity to violence reduction. Our stories are co-created with young people and delivered across schools, prisons, and community spaces.

Causes

• Youth / Children
• Mental Health
• Education
• Ethnic Minority / BAME
• Prison

Location
Remote – flexible between remote and occasional catch ups

Working Hours
3–5 hours per week (flexible around your schedule)

Expenses
Expenses are covered

Job Description
We’re looking for a passionate and proactive volunteer accountant to support Penificent with:

• Xero account reconciliation and financial reporting
• Reviewing and updating previous tax filings
• Exploring whether we overpaid corporation tax and assisting with refiling if applicable
• Supporting budgeting and forecasting processes (including for grant-funded work)
• Helping us create simple reporting structures as we grow
• Advising on sustainable financial planning for our subscriptions, school sales, and workshops

Ideal for someone who is:

• A qualified or part-qualified accountant
• Familiar with Xero
• Interested in social impact, youth development, or creative education
• Happy to collaborate with a small but driven team

Why volunteer with us?
You’ll be part of an award-nominated organisation with strong roots in community storytelling and creative education. We’re expanding fast,and your financial insight could help us scale with clarity and resilience.

Interview Approach
We’ll interview suitable applicants as they apply and are happy to start sooner with the right candidate.

We're growing our volunteering team and looking to recruit 2 Lead Volunteers for our Communications & Marketing Team (and 2 Lead Volunteers specifically for Content.) The successful candidates will have the overall responsibility for the Charity’s communications and marketing. We’re looking for someone who has a passion for promoting a charity supporting a rare condition and can support and lead a volunteering team as well as plan and use communication tools such as websites, social media, Canva and other digital platforms.

This is a flexible volunteering opportunity, which means your commitment can be balanced around your lifestyle - being part of a team to ensure that communications to our community and supporters are up to date and timely.

You will provide leadership for your team and support the development of a communications plan for the charity.

Key Tasks and Objectives

● Lead a team of communications and marketing volunteers.

● Lead and co-ordinate internal projects, activities and campaigns that help build awareness of our organisation and its aims.

● Run the meetings for the Communications & Marketing Team on a monthly basis.

● Regularly meet with and be the point of contact for the lead volunteers for Content, Social Media and Email Marketing to co-ordinate and plan.

● Where and if possible, to also be an active part of the Communications & Marketing Team either as a content writer, copy writer or another role.

● Identifying, initiating and leading on projects which align to the strategy and realise our goals.

● Collaborate with the team.

● To support the charity in develping a visual form of our Annual Report or other reporting documents such as grant reports.

● Support the development and implementation of the Communications Strategy.

● Protecting our charity brand identity, ensuring it is delivered consistently, both internally and externally.

● Promote the charity across all our channels and forms of communication.

● Ensure effective, regular communication to both internal and external audiences.

● Review progress and effectiveness of the Communications Strategy on an annual basis.

What are we looking for?

About You

To be successful in this role you will:

● Have a real enthusiasm for excellence, innovation, continuous improvement and change.

● Be a team leader who is positive, hands on and able to get the best out of a team.

● Have excellent interpersonal skills and adept at building relationships with different stakeholders.

● Have the ability to think strategically but also enjoy being at an operational level to support your team and key stakeholders.

● Have a high level of attention to detail.

● Have the ability to prioritise, plan and organise projects and to manage expectations.

Experience and Skills

● The ability to communicate (verbal and non-verbal) to a wide variety of audiences including the public, various forms of media and on an individual basis.

● Experience in building and leading a team.

● Previous experience of working for charities and/or volunteer organisations is desirable but not required.

● Creativity regarding message management and medium.

● Good IT skills.

● Ability to motivate and enthuse others.

● To be a part of a team.

● Previous experience in marketing, communications, or related fields.

● Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire volunteers.

● Experience of using Canva or similar design packages.

● A strong network of PR and media contacts would be highly advantageous.

What's in it for you?

This role is a fantastic opportunity to volunteer with a small but ambitious charity, developing and honing your skills around leadership in the Third Sector.

Getting the right story in print and online can be challenging, especially when dealing with a rare health condition, but it is definitely rewarding.

You will gain experience in the charity sector, gain new or update your writing skills, a broader C.V., and a sense of accomplishment from using your skills to help people affected by a very painful condition.

You would be leading our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people who may not have heard about the charity or about the condition. You would also have a key role in developing a communications and marketing strategy for a small charity. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference to a rare condition.

Key Benefits

● Gain valuable experience in communications and marketing, plus charity team leadership.

● Make a meaningful impact on the fight to support the CRPS community.

● Develop professional skills and expand your network.

As part of the Government led Gommunities for Afghans programme, we are looking to recruit individuals or groups (UK BASED ONLY) to make up a team of 6 volunteers to support an Afghan family - you could be friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations are welcome.

We are currently focussed on supporting families across Wales, West Midlands and Scotland but be keen to support elsewhere geographically where possible.  With this in mind, you may live in these areas, but we are also delighted to bring volunteers together remotely to support a family. 

You will be at the heart of this programme. It is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference!

The Communities for Afghans programme is a community-led Government initiative supporting families as they rebuild their lives in the UK. It is a Government-approved scheme that enables local people to welcome Afghan refugee famiklies into their community. Volunteers will be supported by us to find housing for a family, provide practical and emotional support enabling them to settle into daily life and feel a genuine sense of belonging in the community.

How community sponsorship work

1. Form a Sponsor Group Create a team of six or more volunteers — friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations.
2. Training & Ongoing Support Our partners provide full training, so your group feels confident and well prepared. This simple, practical training is offered before you begin and continues throughout the sponsorship journey.
3. Identify Suitable Housing With our guidance, your group helps find long-term accommodation. We then match an Afghan family of the appropriate size and ensure the property is suitable and affordable. Government funding is available for rent deposits and related costs.
4. Welcome & Support the Family Volunteers help the family register with schools, healthcare, benefits, and local services, while introducing them to the community and supporting them as they adjust to life in the UK.
5. Be the Local Point of Contact You act as the family’s trusted guide, helping them navigate the area, understand local systems, and access opportunities that only residents truly know.
6. Commit for Three Years Sponsor groups support the family for three years, providing consistency as they grow in independence, confidence, and resilience.

Why Your Support Matters

Volunteering through Community Sponsorship is a powerful act of solidarity. You are not only helping one family — you are strengthening your entire community.

Your support helps families: 

• Rebuild their lives in safety and dignity
• Access education, healthcare, and employment
• Learn English and integrate into the community
• Become confident and independent

And your community benefits:

• Stronger local connections
• Celebrated diversity
• Practical meaningful humanitarian action

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
• providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.