Volunteer Opportunity: Receptionist at the International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Make a Lasting Impact through Humanitarian Service

The International Rescue Committee (IRC), one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations, is inviting passionate individuals to apply for a volunteer position as a Receptionist at its Kampala office in Uganda. This is a unique chance for motivated individuals to contribute meaningfully to global humanitarian efforts while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic, international environment.

About the IRC: A Legacy of Hope and Impact

Founded in 1933 at the initiative of Albert Einstein, the IRC has grown into a formidable force for humanity. With operations in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, IRC provides critical services—healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and protection—to millions affected by conflict, disaster, and oppression. Its mission is to help people survive, rebuild their lives, and regain control of their futures.

In Uganda, the IRC has been working since 1998, responding to the mass displacement caused by conflict with the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), and has expanded its efforts to support vulnerable populations across regions such as Karamoja, Acholi, West Nile, and urban refugee communities in Kampala. The organization’s work is rooted in compassion, resilience, and a firm commitment to restoring dignity and hope to those in greatest need.

Volunteer as a Receptionist: A Gateway to Humanitarian Service

This volunteer role is integral to ensuring the smooth running of the IRC Kampala office. Reporting directly to the Senior HR and Administration Officer, the Receptionist will serve as the first point of contact for visitors, staff, and partners, embodying the organization’s values of warmth, professionalism, and efficiency. The position offers an excellent opportunity to develop administrative skills, gain insight into humanitarian operations, and be part of a global movement dedicated to positive change.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welcoming Visitors: Ensuring every visitor is greeted warmly and their needs are attended to promptly. Creating a friendly and professional environment that reflects the IRC’s commitment to dignity and respect.
• Handling Communications: Managing all incoming correspondence, including telephone calls, emails, letters, and newspapers. Responding professionally and directing communications to the appropriate staff members efficiently to facilitate smooth operations.
• Supporting Administrative Tasks: Assisting staff with travel arrangements such as accommodation and flight bookings, ensuring proper documentation is submitted and processed. This support helps streamline operational workflows.
• Financial and Office Management: Receiving and sharing receipts for invoice payments related to utility bills, office subscriptions, and accommodation expenses with the relevant officers. Ensuring that all financial documentation is accurately maintained.
• Maintaining Office Environment: Keeping the office space organized, clean, and welcoming. Ensuring that office equipment is properly managed—turned off when not in use, and the premises are securely locked at the end of each day.
• Event Coordination: Assisting in organizing staff meetings, workshops, seminars, and conferences. Coordinating venue arrangements and distribution of minutes and materials to ensure efficient communication.
• Managing Supplies and Services: Overseeing subscriptions such as internet and email services, and ensuring timely renewal of maintenance contracts for office machinery like photocopiers. Liaising with the IT team and service providers to maintain smooth functioning.

Qualifications and Skills Needed:

The ideal candidate for this volunteer role will have a strong desire to contribute to humanitarian work, complemented by the following qualifications:

• Educational Background: A diploma or higher education qualification in Secretarial Studies, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience: At least 2 years of proven experience in a similar administrative or receptionist role, preferably within an NGO or international organization.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and oral proficiency in English, with the ability to communicate professionally with diverse stakeholders.
• Organizational Abilities: Strong skills in managing multiple tasks, maintaining office orderliness, and ensuring timely completion of responsibilities.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is essential to handle administrative tasks efficiently.
• Interpersonal Skills: A friendly, approachable demeanor with the ability to work well independently and as part of a multicultural, diverse team.
• Work Ethic: Reliability, attention to detail, and a proactive attitude are critical to succeeding in this role.

Why Volunteer with the IRC?

Volunteering at the IRC offers more than just skills development—it provides an opportunity to be part of a global humanitarian movement. Volunteers contribute directly to the well-being of vulnerable populations, gaining firsthand experience of international development work, and developing a network of contacts across sectors.

This role is especially suitable for individuals seeking to gain insight into humanitarian operations, improve their administrative expertise, or explore a career in international development and aid work. It is also an excellent platform to demonstrate commitment, build cultural competence, and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Application Process: How to Get Involved

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the official IRC recruitment channels. Ensure that your CV highlights relevant experience, skills, and motivation for the role. Emphasize your ability to work independently, your organizational skills, and your passion for humanitarian service.

While this position is a volunteer role, it is a full-time commitment, offering a rewarding experience that combines service with professional growth. Selected volunteers will receive orientation and ongoing support from the IRC team in Kampala.

Make a Difference Today

Joining the IRC as a Volunteer Receptionist means becoming part of a dedicated team committed to transforming lives through compassionate service and operational excellence. Your efforts can contribute significantly to the smooth functioning of the organization’s programs, ultimately enabling the IRC to reach more people in need.

If you are a solutions-driven individual eager to serve and make a meaningful impact, this opportunity awaits you. Visit the IRC’s careers page or contact their recruitment team to learn more about application deadlines and requirements.

Conclusion

The International Rescue Committee’s volunteer opportunities offer a meaningful pathway to contribute to global humanitarian efforts while acquiring valuable skills and experience. As a Receptionist in Kampala, Uganda, you will be at the forefront of the organization’s daily operations, embodying its core values of dignity, compassion, and professionalism.

Take the first step toward making a difference—apply today and be part of an organization that restores hope and rebuilds lives in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Your commitment can help the IRC continue its vital work of saving lives, restoring health, and empowering communities for a brighter future.

APPLY HERE

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