Volunteer speaker

Task description

Volunteer speakers and preachers raise awareness of issues that affect the world’s poorest communities. Committed to the values and vision of Christian Aid, they share stories about the work of Christian Aid’s partner organisations and inspire people to make a difference by giving, taking action and praying for change. Where appropriate, they help people to make connections between their faith and issues of poverty and justice.

As part of Christian Aid’s speaker team, you will have the opportunity to use and develop your presentation skills, put your faith into action and help to promotejustice in the world.

What will I do?

  • Prepare and deliver talks and/or sermons on the work of Christian Aid, in a variety of settings. This could include church services or smaller sessions with groups
  • Work with your staff contact to identify speaking opportunities in your local area and make contact with church leaders
  • Encourage people to support the work of Christian Aid through giving their time and money, taking action and praying
  • Promote Christian Aid’s resources and materials
  • You may also be asked to prepare and lead services, though that is not an essential part of the role

As representatives of Christian Aid, volunteer speakers should ensure that their message is consistent with Christian Aid’s purpose and values. It is therefore important that they regularly attend training and use up-to-date resources.

How much time can I give?

That depends on you, but we suggest around four talks per year. Requests for speakers tend to come on an ad hoc basis, with a greater demand around Christian Aid Week. However, we also encourage you to create your own speaking engagements and willoffer you support to do this.

What skills do I need?

  • An ability to deliver talks and presentations in an engaging way
  • An understanding of development issues and a willingness to learn more
  • An ability to speak in a variety of church environments and to make contact with local church leaders
  • An ability to work alone and as part of a team
  • A conviction that issues of justice and development are central to the call of the Christian gospel
  • An ability to help people make connections between these issues and their faith

What support will I receive?

  • Individual support from a named contact within Christian Aid
  • Ongoing training sessions with other volunteers and Christian Aid staff
  • Access to Christian Aid’s published and online resources
  • Access to a volunteers’ extranet
  • A regular volunteers’ e-newsletter
  • Out-of-pocket expenses

Are there any other requirements?

  • Volunteers are normally required to attend training at least once a year to ensure that their message is consistent with Christian Aid’s current themes
  • It is helpful, but not essential, to have your own transport

How can I find out more?

Contact your local Christian Aid office

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Christian Aid UK registered charity number 1105851 Company number 5171525 Scot Charity Number SC039150

Northern Ireland charity number NIC101631 Company number NI059154

Republic of Ireland charity number 20014162 Company number 426928