Category Archives: VOLUNTEERS

Ozanam House Volunteers
News and information for Volunteers.

Dec 11 2019

General Workshop Volunteer

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment

Our organisation & the programme

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002, we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community.

Some examples of these programmes and projects are a childcare centre providing pre-school and after-school care, youth programmes including homework clubs, youth clubs and summer projects. The centre also provides a suite of adult education programmes, such as computers, cookery, dance and dressmaking and various community programmes for the older generation including an older Men’s group and an active retirement group.


Overview of the Volunteer Role
To identify your area of expertise and specific skills that can be used to facilitate a series of workshops that would benefit one of the centre’s programmes mentioned above.

Examples of these are:

  • Sports
  • Arts
  • Cookery
  • Crafts
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Dance
  • Swimming
  • First Aid
  • Reflexology treatments
  • Other area of relevance



Tasks

  • To agree with the programme coordinator a workshop plan in advance
  • To source materials to undertake the courses, these will be funded by the centre
  • To prepare these courses in advance
  • To ensure the room and space are prepared and ready for the participants in advance of the class starting
  • To lead the class/workshop with the support at all times of the programme staff – class leaders and assistants
  • To review activities with the programme coordinator implementing changes where necessary
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office

Time commitment

The exact times and dates of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator. The volunteer should consider committing to the time of the classes/workshops plus extra time for the planning and preparation of the classes/workshops.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Expertise and specific skill in an area of relevance to the centre
  • Fun and Energy when teaching your skill to a group of people
  • Ability to relate well to people and enjoy dealing with them
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Good organizational skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Self-confidence towards other people
  • Patience, resilience, tolerance and flexibility
  • Previous workshop experience is desirable but not essential

Training & Support

  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • The volunteer will receive support at all times of the programme staff – class leaders and assistants.
  • Special support will be given by the programme coordinator in advance for planning the workshop.

Benefits

  • Personal development
  • Sharing knowledge that can help others enrich their lives
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

If you have a skill or qualification in an area that you feel will benefit Ozanam House please contact us!

A meeting will be arranged.

Dec 10 2019

SYS1 Youth Group Leader

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment’

Our organisation

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002, we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community in Dublin’s north inner city. The centre now offers over 600 programme places to more than 500 people per week where our youngest member is 2 and our eldest is 96. We also engage 75 active volunteers who share their time and skills each week for the benefit of others.

The role we are looking to fill is for the Senior Youth Service (SYS1);

The Senior Youth Service is open for young people from the age of 13 to 18 years with a maximum of 20 young people registered in the groups

These groups are multi-activity social and skill-based programmes that give children and young people a chance to find their hidden sometimes buried talents in a safe, fun, learning and social environment. The young people not only develop skills, but also develop new lifelong friendships and a respect for themselves and those around them as well as an enhanced sense of self-worth and belief that is immeasurable in today’s society. They achieve this with the support of our volunteers who work with us to create this safe environment.

Overview of the Volunteer Role
Each week, we organize activities such as cookery, computers, arts & crafts, sports, music and educational workshops to name but a few. We try to nurture and build on the unique skills our volunteers possess and bring to the centre and we do this through supporting them to facilitate sessions with the youth groups.

This support can help identify an area of expertise and specific skills that can be used to facilitate a series of workshops that would benefit one of the centre’s programmes.

The volunteer leaders support the young people in the activities, engaging with the young people, acting as mentors and role models throughout.

Perhaps the most important function of the groups is the educational and community support that is offered by our volunteer leaders. This support aids and assists the personal development of the children and young people in the centre.

Our Volunteers not only support the children and young people but also each other. This support means volunteers are able to share their learning in the role and to benefit from each other’s experience, sharing knowledge and skills.

To reach our full potential and to achieve our goals in the group, we are constantly seeking new volunteers to facilitate group sessions and support the youth co-ordinator deliver a quality and professional programme to the children and young people ensuring a standard level of safety and fun environment within each group.

Tasks

  • Attend team planning meetings each term
  • Help prepare for the groups
  • Take part in activities and spend time with the children and young people
  • Be a role model for the children and young people and help them with their activities
  • Supervise the group together with other volunteers
  • Attend outings and trips to provide support to the co-ordinator, if requested and if available
  • Attend and contribute to debriefings after the classes with other volunteers
  • Work as part of a team within a really supportive environment where everybody helps each other, giving and taking ongoing feedback and support between all volunteers
  • Attend team meetings every term to assist the co-ordinator with planning, organising, developing and running the programme
  • Support the implementation of restorative practice as a procedure for conflict resolution in the group
  • Students/Interns/Volunteers with talents, skills and qualifications in specific activities are encouraged to teach classes if comfortable doing so, with the support and guidance of the coordinator
  • To attend meetings and training days if/when applicable
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office
  • Other general responsibilities in the context of the role as agreed with the co-ordinator

Time commitment

The group takes place on the following days:

Senior Youth Service 1 –        Tuesdays                                 7:15pm to 8:45pm.

Our expectation is that volunteers commit to one group on one day – 2 hours each week (the exact times and days of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme coordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months. If the volunteer knows in advance that he or she can only commit to a shorter period of time, the volunteer should let the coordinator know.

 

Skills, Experience & Qualities

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish good relationships with children and young people
  • Strong commitment and enthusiasm to children and young people and an understanding of the factors affecting their lives
  • Interest and commitment to developing the capacity to provide reliable support to children and young people in times of stress and act with integrity, respect and support
  • Good organizational skills
  • Good level of energy and good commitment to having fun
  • An accepting and non-authoritarian approach
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Reliability, patience, resilience and flexibility
  • Ability to treat children and young people’s concerns with respect, tact and sensitivity
  • Ability to be aware of own limits, to admit it and to ask for support
  • An openness to learning and developing further good practices when working and supporting young people
  • Previous experience is desirable but not essential

Training & Induction

  • The volunteer will receive an induction/information night in the centre prior to his/her start date and will get a general information pack to become familiar with the centre and our procedures
  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree on a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description.
  • At this meeting, the volunteer will have a support volunteer appointed to them. This person will have been working with the group for some time and will provide initial guidance, advice and support to the new volunteer
  • Child Protection Training will be provided within the first few weeks. This training is compulsory and will inform the volunteer of the protection and welfare of children under the Children’s Act 1997 and best practices when working with children and young people.
  • Team meetings take place each term, as well as individual training programmes that will be provided if/where necessary

Support & Supervision

The coordinator will be responsible for the supervision of the volunteer. Volunteers will meet with their co-ordinator either in one-to-one meetings or in larger group meetings to discuss ongoing progress and any issues arising.

General volunteer meetings, for all volunteers, will take place twice a year, in May and November.
Furthermore, there will be a specific volunteer information session for the youth groups in January and September. Aim of this session is to get together, set an outline for the following period and explain the expectations for the volunteers in detail.

Benefits

  • General happiness and satisfaction
  • Personal and professional development in terms of confidence, patience, adaptability
  • Learn new skills (e.g decision-making and finding alternatives, leadership skills, communication skills, organizational skills, behavioural competencies)
  • The chance to contribute towards the development of children and young people to enhance their sense of self-worth and belief
  • To make a difference in young people’s lives
  • Opportunity to use and develop skills and talents
  • Opportunity to bring ideas on board and develop the centre
  • Opportunity to work in a relaxed atmosphere
  • Opportunity to develop friendships and meaningful relationships with like-minded peers
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

If you are interested, please contact Kim:

Phone 01 874 2804

Email [email protected]

Dec 10 2019

Ozanam Youth Group 1 Leader

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment’

Ozanam Youth Groups – Youth leader volunteer

Our organisation

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002, we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community in Dublin’s north inner city. The centre now offers over 600 programme places to more than 500 people per week where our youngest member is 2 and our eldest is 96. We also engage 75 active volunteers who share their time and skills each week for the benefit of others.

The role we are looking to fill is for the Ozanam Youth Groups (OYG1);

The Ozanam Youth Groups are open for all children from the age of 6 to 13 years with a maximum number of 25 registered in the groups.

These groups are multi-activity social and skill-based programmes that give children and young people a chance to find their hidden sometimes buried talents in a safe, fun, learning and social environment. The young people not only develop skills, but also develop new lifelong friendships and a respect for themselves and those around them as well as an enhanced sense of self-worth and belief that is immeasurable in today’s society. They achieve this with the support of our volunteers who work with us to create this safe environment.

Overview of the Volunteer Role
Each week, we organize activities such as cookery, computers, arts & crafts, sports and music to name but a few. We try to nurture and build on the unique skills our volunteers possess and bring to the centre and we do this through supporting them to facilitate sessions with the youth groups.

This support can help identify an area of expertise and specific skills that can be used to facilitate a series of workshops that would benefit one of the centre’s programmes.

The volunteer leaders support the young people in the activities, engaging with the young people, acting as mentors and role models throughout.

Perhaps the most important function of the groups is the educational and community support that is offered by our volunteer leaders. This support aids and assists the personal development of the children and young people in the centre.

Our Volunteers not only support the children and young people but also each other. This support means volunteers are able to share their learning in the role and to benefit from each other’s experience, sharing knowledge and skills.

To reach our full potential and to achieve our goals in the group, we are constantly seeking new volunteers to facilitate group sessions and support the youth co-ordinator deliver a quality and professional programme to the children and young people ensuring a standard level of safety and fun environment within each group.

Tasks

  • Attend team planning meetings each term
  • Help prepare for the groups
  • Take part in activities and spend time with the children and young people
  • Be a role model for the children and young people and help them with their activities
  • Supervise the group together with other volunteers
  • Attend outings and trips to provide support to co-ordinator, if requested and if available
  • Attend and contribute to debriefings after the classes with other volunteers
  • Work as part of a team within a really supportive environment where everybody helps each other, giving and taking ongoing feedback and support between all volunteers
  • Attend team meetings every term to assist the co-ordinator with planning, organising, developing and running the programme
  • Support the implementation of restorative practice as a procedure for conflict resolution in the group
  • Students/Interns/Volunteers with talents, skills and qualifications in specific activities are encouraged to teach classes if comfortable doing so, with the support and guidance of the coordinator
  • To attend meetings and training days if/when applicable
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office
  • Other general responsibilities in the context of the role as agreed with the co-ordinator

Time commitment

The group takes place on the following days:

Ozanam Youth Group 1 –     Tuesday and/or Thursday                    5:00pm to 6:30 pm

Our expectation is that volunteers commit to one group on one day – 2 hours each week (the exact times and days of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months. If the volunteer knows in advance that he or she can only commit to a shorter period of time, the volunteer should let the coordinator know.

Skills, Experience & Qualities

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish good relationships with children and young people
  • Strong commitment and enthusiasm to children and young people and an understanding of the factors affecting their lives
  • Interest and commitment to developing the capacity to provide reliable support to children and young people in times of stress and act with integrity, respect and support
  • Good organizational skills
  • Good level of energy and good commitment to having fun
  • An accepting and non-authoritarian approach
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Reliability, patience, resilience and flexibility
  • Ability to treat children and young people’s concerns with respect, tact and sensitivity
  • Ability to be aware of own limits, to admit it and to ask for support
  • An openness to learning and developing further good practices when working and supporting young people
  • Previous experience is desirable but not essential

Training & Induction

  • The volunteer will receive an induction/information night in the centre prior to his/her start date and will get a general information pack to become familiar with the centre and our procedures
  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description.
  • At this meeting the volunteer will have a support volunteer appointed to them. This person will have been working with the group for some time and will provide initial guidance, advice and support to the new volunteer
  • Child Protection Training will be provided within the first few weeks. This training is compulsory and will inform the volunteer of the protection and welfare of children under the Children’s Act 1997 and best practices when working with children and young people.
  • Team meetings take place each term, as well as individual training programmes that will be provided if/where necessary

Support & Supervision

The co-ordinator will be responsible for the supervision of the volunteer. Volunteers will meet with their co-ordinator either in one-to-one meetings, or in larger group meetings to discuss ongoing progress and any issues arising.

General volunteer meetings, for all volunteers, will take place twice a year, in May and November.
Furthermore, there will be a specific volunteer information session for the youth groups in January and September. Aim of this session is to get together, set an outline for the following period and explain the expectations for the volunteers in detail.

Benefits

  • General happiness and satisfaction
  • Personal and professional development in terms of confidence, patience, adaptability
  • Learn new skills (e.g decision-making and finding alternatives, leadership skills, communication skills, organizational skills, behavioural competencies)
  • The chance to contribute towards the development of children and young people to enhance their sense of self-worth and belief
  • To make a difference in young people’s lives
  • Opportunity to use and develop skills and talents
  • Opportunity to bring ideas on board and develop the centre
  • Opportunity to work in a relaxed atmosphere
  • Opportunity to develop friendships and meaningful relationships with like-minded peers
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

If you are interested, please contact Kim:

Phone: 01 874 2804

Email: [email protected]

Dec 10 2019

Afterschool Sports Activity Volunteer

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment’

Our organisation & the programme

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002 we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community.

Some examples of these programmes and projects are a childcare centre providing pre-school and after-school care, youth programmes including homework clubs, youth clubs and summer projects. The centre also provides a suite of adult education programmes, such as computers, cookery, dance and dressmaking and various community programmes for the older generation including an older Men’s group and an active retirement group.

Overview of the Volunteer Role

To run sports activity workshops for afterschool children 4 to 8 year olds.  Classes will take place Tuesday and Thursday between 3pm and 5pm.  We are looking for a volunteer to focus on sports activities to keep the children engaged in physical activities.
Tasks

  • To agree with the programme coordinator a workshop plan in advance
  • To confirm equipment needed and set up before the workshop
  • To prepare these class in advance
  • To ensure the room and space are prepared and ready for the participants in advance of the class starting
  • To lead the class/workshop with the support at all times of the programme staff – class leaders and assistants
  • To review activities with the programme coordinator implementing changes where necessary
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office

Time commitment

Afterschool sports activity classes will run on Tuesday and Thursday from 3pm to 5pm
The volunteer should commit to at least one of the classes mentioned above plus extra time for the preparation of the classes (the exact times and days of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months.  This offers consistency to the children and offers the volunteer the opportunity to develop that class well over time.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Interest and knowledge in sports and fitness
  • Fun and Energy when teaching your skill to a group of people
  • Ability to relate well to people and enjoy dealing with them
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Good organizational skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Self-confidence towards other people
  • Patience, resilience, tolerance and flexibility
  • Previous teaching experience is an advantage but not essential

Training & Support

  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • The volunteer will receive support at all times of the programme staff – class leaders and assistants.
  • Special support will be given by the programme coordinator in advance for planning the workshop.

Benefits

  • Personal development
  • Sharing knowledge that can help others enrich their lives
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers
Dec 10 2019

General Childcare Workshop Volunteer

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment’

Our organisation & the programme

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002 we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community.

Some examples of these programmes and projects are a childcare centre providing pre-school and after-school care, youth programmes including homework clubs, youth clubs and summer projects. The centre also provides a suite of adult education programmes, such as computers, cookery, dance and dressmaking and various community programmes for the older generation including an older Men’s group and an active retirement group.

Overview of the Volunteer Role
To identify your area of expertise and specific skills that can be used to facilitate a series of workshops that would benefit one of the centre’s programmes mentioned above.

Examples of these are:

  • Sports
  • Arts
  • Cookery
  • Crafts
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Dance
  • Swimming
  • First Aid
  • Reflexology treatments
  • Other area of relevance

Tasks

  • To agree with the programme coordinator a workshop plan in advance
  • To source materials to undertake the courses, these will be funded by the centre
  • To prepare these courses in advance
  • To ensure the room and space are prepared and ready for the participants in advance of the class starting
  • To lead the class/workshop with the support at all times of the programme staff – class leaders and assistants
  • To review activities with the programme coordinator implementing changes where necessary
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office

Time commitment

The exact times and dates of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator. The volunteer should consider committing to the time of the classes/workshops plus extra time for the planning and preparation of the classes/workshops.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Expertise and specific skill in an area of relevance to the centre
  • Fun and Energy when teaching your skill to a group of people
  • Ability to relate well to people and enjoy dealing with them
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Good organizational skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Self-confidence towards other people
  • Patience, resilience, tolerance and flexibility
  • Previous workshop experience is desirable but not essential

Training & Support

  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • The volunteer will receive support at all times of the programme staff – class leaders and assistants.
  • Special support will be given by the programme coordinator in advance for planning the workshop.

Benefits

  • Personal development
  • Sharing knowledge that can help others enrich their lives
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

If you have a skill or qualification in an area that you feel will benefit Ozanam House please contact us!
A meeting will be arranged.

Dec 10 2019

Childcare Centre – Homework support volunteer

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment’

Our organisation & the programme

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002, we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community.

One of these programmes is our Children’s Centre with the Homework Club. The aim of our centre is to encourage all children to feel that they belong. We aim to create an environment where each child is happy, independent, secure and healthy. Our staff’s aim is to develop each child’s emotional, social, language, and intellectual skills. The Homework Club is open to all children at the age of 4 to 11 years.

Overview of the Volunteer Role
The Homework Club offers students from the inner city an opportunity to find a quiet space to do their homework. Not only do we offer them this space but we also offer them support in completing their homework.

Tasks

  • Attend the Child Protection Training session
  • Provide support for the children and their learning
  • Be a role model for the children
  • Supervise the group alone or together with other volunteers
  • Motivate and encourage the children to learn
  • To attend meetings and training days if/when possible
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office
  • Other general responsibilities in the context of the role as agreed with the co-ordinator

Time commitment

The Homework Club takes place weekly from Monday to Thursday from 1:30pm to 3:30 pm
To build up relationships with the children and support their learning volunteers are expected to commit to at least one or two afternoons a week (the exact times and dates of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months.

Other volunteers
In addition, we welcome applications from potential volunteers who have specific expertise or skills which they can contribute. For example, volunteers in the past have delivered some sports, arts, dance and other courses. The time commitment for these volunteers will vary and be agreed in advance with the co-ordinator.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Understanding of various learning styles and abilities
  • Ability to address the varying needs of the children
  • Ability to relate well to children and enjoy dealing with them
  • Fun and Energy when working with children
  • Good organizational skills
  • An accepting and non-authoritarian approach
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish good relationships with children
  • Patience, resilience, tolerance and flexibility
  • Ability to treat children’s concerns with respect, tact and sensitivity, whilst always being aware of the limits that are required by confidentiality and the necessary boundaries
  • Previous experience is desirable but not essential

Training & Induction

  • The volunteer will receive an induction/information night in the centre prior to his/her first inset and will get a general information pack to become familiar with the centre and our procedures
  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • A Child Protection Training session will be provided. This training will inform the volunteer of the protection and welfare of children under the Children’s Act 1997 and best practices when working with young people.
  • Ongoing individual training programmes will be provided if necessary

Support & Supervision

The co-ordinator will be responsible for the supervision of the volunteer. Volunteers will meet with their co-ordinator either in one-to-one meetings, or in larger group meetings to discuss ongoing progress and any issues arising.
General volunteer meetings, for all volunteers, will take place twice a year, in May and November.

Benefits

  • Personal development
  • The change to contribute towards the development of children to enhance the sense of self-worth and belief
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers
Nov 28 2019

ADULT EDUCATION – COOKERY VOLUNTEER

Our organisation

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002 we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community in Dublin’s north inner city. The centre now offers over 600 programme places to more than 500 people per week where our youngest member is 2 and our eldest is 96. We also engage 75 active volunteers who share their time and skills each week for the benefit of others.

Adult Education – Cookery Training Programme

One of our most popular programmes is our cookery training centre otherwise known as our    “Healthy Options Centre”. Each individual course runs for 10 weeks and each class is 2hrs in duration.

The courses we run in our cookery training room aim to provide people with simple and basic skills required to provide healthy meals for themselves and their families. They are based on the understanding that healthy eating does not have to be difficult or expensive. Each class also includes some nutritional information with the aim of educating people about the foods we eat and the effect these foods can have on our general wellbeing.

These courses also involve a more practical approach on how to cook healthy food on a budget.
We are offering two types of courses:
1) Cooking for the family – Wednesday 7pm – 9pm & Thursday 10:30am – 12:30pm

This is a more beginners orientated class to teach people basic cookery skills

2) Come Dine with me – Thursday 7pm – 9pm

This class is a more developed class for people who can cook but would like to learn new dishes. It should help to enhance cooking skills in an informal and social cooking atmosphere.

The aim of this centre is to limit the use of fast food as the main elements in the diets of the community, offering them a healthier option in this regard while at the same time teaching them some useful culinary skills that will benefit them and their families throughout their lives.

As cookery is a skill everyone would aspire to having our groups can be diverse in age, ethnicity, learning capacity and personal background. This allows for a nice balance of members in the class and can create a good sense of community in the class as groups can reflect our world around us.

 

Overview of the volunteer role

To reach our full potential and to achieve our goals in the classes, we are constantly seeking new volunteers to share their cookery skills and to teach these classes in an informal setting. Our classes are focused on the needs of the individuals who take them. Each class has a team of 2 teachers who work together sharing tasks and lead teaching each week.

Tasks

  • To use the recipe information already in place and/or to think of recipes with your teaching partner or together with the group and to share this with the group one week in advance
  • To source and purchase the ingredients needed to undertake the classes, these will be funded by the centre
  • To prepare the classes in advance
  • Demonstrate the methodology of cooking each selected dish
  • Participate in cooking and come to the aid of the participants
  • Inform participants about healthy cooking, nutrition, cooking on a budget and shopping skills
  • Introduce new members to the group and ensure all members are included and engaged in the activity
  • To attend team meetings and training days if/when possible
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House (which can be found in the induction pack or in the office) as well as the Cookery Centre Health & Safety Policies in place.
  • Other general responsibilities in the context of the role as agreed with the co-ordinator

Time commitment

Classes in the cookery centre run on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00pm, Thursday morning from 10:30am to 12:30pm and evening from 7:00 to 9:00pm.
The volunteer should commit to at least one of the classes mentioned above plus extra time for the preparation of the classes (the exact times and days of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months. This covers 3 terms with each term lasting 10 weeks. This offers consistency to a class level and offers the volunteer the opportunity to develop that class well over time.

Other volunteers
In addition, we welcome applications from potential volunteers who have specific expertise or skills which they can contribute. For example, volunteers in the past have delivered training in baking, sugar craft, First Aid in the kitchen and taught specific applicable skills to the group. Based on the skills offered we can tailor a course for a term of 10 weeks. The time commitment for these volunteers will be agreed in advance with the coordinator.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Interest and knowledge in cooking and nutrition
  • Ability to relate well to people and enjoy dealing with them
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Self-confidence and general ease with other people
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills – vital in a supportive role
  • Good organizational skills
  • Good level of English
  • Experience with adult learners of mixed learning capacities is an advantage but not essential
  • High motivation and engagement to be a volunteer over a longer period of time
  • Commitment to the ethos of volunteering and a community based initiative
  • Previous teaching experience is an advantage but not essential

Training & Induction

  • The volunteer will receive an induction/information night in the centre prior to his/her introduction and will get a general information pack to become familiar with the centre and our procedures
  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • Team meetings take place each term, as well as individual training programmes that will be provided if/where necessary

Support & Supervision

The co-ordinator will be responsible for the supervision of the volunteer. Volunteers will meet with their co-ordinator either in one-to-one meetings, or in larger group meetings to discuss ongoing progress and any issues arising.
General volunteer meetings, for all volunteers, will take place twice a year, in May and November.

Benefits

  • Personal and professional development
  • Sharing knowledge that can help others enrich their lives
  • To be part of a progressive and energetic team supporting others to improve their lives
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

Contact  Kim Haugh

Phone; 01 874 2804

Email: [email protected]

Oct 10 2019

CHILDCARE CENTRE – KITCHEN VOLUNTEER

Our organisation & the programme

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002, we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community.

Overview of the Volunteer Role

Tasks

  • To prepare light snacks e.g. sandwiches, Beans, fruit, veg & dips
  • To deliver to each room for snack time
  • To collect dishes from each room, place in dishwasher and clean up the kitchen.

Time commitment

Hours – between 2.45 – 4.30

Days required – 1 or 2 days a week (preferably a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday)

To build up relationships with the children and support their learning volunteers are expected to commit to at least one or two afternoons a week (the exact times and dates of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme co-ordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months.

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Ability to work well in a kitchen
  • Ability to address the varying needs of the children
  • Ability to relate well to children and enjoy dealing with them
  • Fun and Energy when working with children
  • Good organizational skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish good relationships with children and staff
  • Patience, resilience, tolerance and flexibility
  • Ability to treat children’s concerns with respect, tact and sensitivity, whilst always being aware of the limits that are required by confidentiality and the necessary boundaries
  • Previous experience is desirable but not essential

Training & Induction

  • The volunteer will receive an induction/information night in the centre prior to his/her introduction and will get a general information pack to become familiar with the centre and our procedures
  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • A Child Protection Training session will be provided. This training will inform the volunteer of the protection and welfare of children under the Children’s Act 1997 and best practices when working with young people.
  • Ongoing individual training programmes will be provided if necessary

Support & Supervision

The co-ordinator will be responsible for the supervision of the volunteer. Volunteers will meet with their co-ordinator either in one-to-one meetings, or in larger group meetings to discuss ongoing progress and any issues arising.
General volunteer meetings, for all volunteers, will take place twice a year, in May and November.

Benefits

  • Personal development
  • The change to contribute towards the development of children to enhance the sense of self-worth and belief
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

Contact

Kim Haugh

[email protected]

01 8742804

Aug 2 2019

Adult Education – Yoga Volunteer

 

 

 

 

A safe place where people learn and grow,

that serves our needs and enriches our lives

in a supportive, fun and caring environment’

 

Our organisation

Ozanam House is a community resource centre run by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. It is located on the site of the original clothing and furniture warehouse in a building that has also been used by the Society for a variety of purposes for over 100 years. Since our opening in September 2002, we have continued to develop various programmes and projects aimed at addressing the issue of social exclusion as well as the many needs of the local community in Dublin’s north inner city. The centre now offers over 600 programme places to more than 500 people per week where our youngest member is 2 and our eldest is 96. We also engage 75 active volunteers who share their time and skills each week for the benefit of others.

Adult Education – Yoga Programme

One of the programmes referred to above is our Yoga class. The class runs for 10 weeks and each class is 75 minutes in duration. The Yoga class offers members of the community a chance to get out and learn new skills or practice old ones, a chance to develop their sense of self-worth and self-belief, a chance to gain some respite from daily life, a chance to relax and meet new friends, a chance to put themselves first in a world where they may give over so much of themselves to others.

A lot of our members can have had a negative experience of education in the past and it can be a big step for them to come back into any educational training. We, therefore, ensure we provide a very relaxed educational environment where their needs are at the centre of everything we do.

 

Overview of the volunteer role

To reach our full potential and to achieve our goals in the centre we are constantly seeking new volunteers to come on board to share their skills and knowledge with people undertaking Yoga classes.


Tasks

  • Teach the basics of Yoga
  • To prepare the class in advance
  • To consult the service users when planning activities
  • Deliver safe, fun and creative yoga classes, sensitive to the needs and abilities of participants
  • Take class attendance on a daily basis
  • Responsibility for overall set up and clean up
  • Supervise the group with first priority in their safety
  • Participate in the class and come to the aid of the participants
  • Introduce new members to the group and ensure all members are included and engaged in the activity
  • To attend team meetings and training days if/when possible
  • To follow the policies and procedures of Ozanam House which can be found in the induction pack or in the office
  • Other general responsibilities in the context of the role as agreed with the co-ordinator

 

Time commitment

The Yoga class runs each Monday for beginners 6:30pm to 7:30pm and for improvers 7:45pm to 9:00pm. The Yoga volunteer should commit to one class per week plus extra time for the preparation of the class (the exact times and dates of working will be agreed between the volunteer and the programme coordinator). The volunteer should commit to a minimum period of nine months. This covers 3 terms with each term lasting 10 weeks. This offers consistency to a class level and offers the volunteer the opportunity to develop that class well over time.

 

Skills, Experience & Qualities Required

  • Formal qualifications and experience in yoga instruction
  • A keen interest in Yoga activities
  • Experience in Group Instruction or teaching preferred
  • Patience, resilience, tolerance and flexibility
  • Ability to relate well to people and enjoy dealing with them
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Self-confidence and general ease with other people
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills – vital in a supportive role
  • Good organizational skills and basic administration skills
  • Intermediate level of English
  • Experience with adult learners of mixed learning capacities is an advantage but not essential
  • High motivation and engagement to be a volunteer over a longer period of time
  • Commitment to the ethos of volunteering and community-based initiative

 

Training & Induction

  • The volunteer will receive an induction/information night in the centre prior to his/her first inset and will get a general information pack to become familiar with the centre and our procedures
  • The volunteer will have an initial meeting with the co-ordinator to receive a role-specific induction and to agree a timetable and schedule of duties in line with the volunteer role description
  • Ongoing individual training programmes will be provided if necessary

 

Support & Supervision

The coordinator will be responsible for the supervision of the volunteer. Volunteers will meet with their co-ordinator either in one-to-one meetings, or in larger group meetings to discuss ongoing progress and any issues arising.
General volunteer meetings, for all volunteers, will take place twice a year, in May and November.

 

Benefits

  • Personal and professional development
  • Sharing knowledge that can help others enrich their lives
  • To be part of a progressive team supporting others to improve their lives
  • Opportunity to work in and learn about a community resource centre
  • Opportunity to build up valuable work experience
  • Tea and coffee will be provided for all volunteers

Contact

[email protected]

01 8742804