Volunteer with AMREF
Volunteers are vital to AMREF’s work; it’s a great way to gain some valuable experience and help AMREF improve millions of lives.
Hear from a current volunteer
Name: Lucy Scanlon
Age: 22
How long have you been volunteering at AMREF?
I started volunteering in June 2008, in the summer after my second year at university. I continued in the holidays of my third year and have been doing one day a week during my final year.
Why did you decide to volunteer at AMREF?
I had a lot of free time between the end of my second year exams and starting my semester abroad and wanted to do something interesting and worthwhile with my time. I have been aware of AMREF for a long time and think it is a really inspiring organisation. I would like to work for an international development NGO after I graduate, so I was also hoping to gain some relevant work experience that would help me achieve this aim.
What does it involve?
I have worked with several departments within the office, including the Fundraising & Communications and Programmes & Advocacy teams. I have assisted with numerous tasks including research and database upkeep. I have found it very easy to combine volunteering for AMREF with my studies, and the office has been a very friendly place to work.
What have you found particularly interesting?
It has been really interesting to work in an office environment (a real contrast to the student life!) and I have learnt a lot that will be useful in the future. Learning about the projects run by AMREF has been fascinating and my knowledge of international development and health related issues has greatly increased. Helping out with fundraising events such as the Water of Life Half Marathon was really enjoyable.
Volunteering has been a very rewarding experience and I would encourage anyone with spare time and an interest in African health development to consider it.
If you have some time and would like to support AMREF please get in touch with our fundraising team by emailing supportercare@amrefuk.org or calling 020 7269 5520.