Becoming a volunteer
“These days there are numerous organisations which provide young people the opportunity to volunteer abroad, but what is unique about Mary Ward International is the additional appropriate training and support provided prior to and after my departure.”
Richa Deshpande, MWIA Volunteer
Allow enough time
Prospective volunteers need to contact MWIA at least four months before the preferred date of volunteering. Selection and preparation takes two to four months depending on the length of time of the placement. This allows for sharing of information and expectations.
Fulfill the selection criteria
Before you apply, consider if you:
- are open to the mission and values of Loreto and MWIA
- are open to a cross-cultural experience
- have the relevant skills/experience/qualifications
- are committed to attending preparation and debriefing sessions
- are at least 20 years old with more than one year of tertiary education or full time work
- have read the MWIA Volunteer policies & guidelines and are willing and able to adhere to these.
Follow the process
Step 1: Application
Prepare a resume listing education and employment experiences and send it to us with a completed copy of the MWIA Volunteering application form.
Step 2: Arrange an interview
Once we have received your application, an MWIA representative will contact you to arrange a suitable interview time.
Step 3: Interview
The interview will take about 30 minutes. You will be asked to specify where and when you would like to volunteer so have a think about this before your interview date. Also, it is good to nominate more than one country!
Step 4: Interview follow-up
Your MWIA representative will contact you a few days after the interview to let you know if you are eligible for the program. If you accept a placement, we will contact the project partner in your nominated country and secure a placement for you.
Step 5: Organising your trip
You will need to arrange your own flights, visa, medical requirements and most importantly travel and medical insurance. MWIA is happy to assist and answer any questions you may have when completing this process
We do charge an administration fee of $350 to cover you pre-departure preparation and management of your placement. Accommodation and food costs vary according to country and length of placement.
Get prepared!
All MWIA Volunteers need to attend a pre-departure preparation and re-entry program.
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Further resources