The Power of Volunteering in Rome
Volunteering in Rome, Italy represents a unique opportunity to combine humanitarian service with cultural immersion in one of Europe's most historic cities. The Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) offers particularly meaningful opportunities for those passionate about human rights and refugee advocacy. Their volunteer programs allow participants to contribute meaningfully while developing valuable professional and personal skills in an international setting .
For those considering volunteering abroad, Rome provides an stunning backdrop of ancient history, vibrant culture, and contemporary European life. Beyond the tourist attractions lies a city where global challenges meet local solutions, and where volunteers can make a genuine difference in the lives of forcibly displaced people while transforming their own perspectives and capabilities.
The JRS Advocacy Volunteer Role: Responsibilities and Impact
Core Mission and Activities
The JRS International Office Advocacy Unit focuses on empowering forcibly displaced people to claim their rights and advocating for sustainable solutions. As a volunteer, you will collaborate closely with the head of the Advocacy Unit, assisting in updating capacity-building materials and helping organize meetings and workshops to advance JRS's global advocacy strategy .
This volunteer experience offers the chance to engage in a multicultural environment while contributing to the mission of supporting and advocating for refugees and displaced people worldwide. Your work will directly impact JRS's ability to effectively advocate for some of the world's most vulnerable populations through various key responsibilities:
- Research and Content Development: Assist in creating, revising, and presenting training materials on advocacy, incorporating diverse media formats and tools to enhance learning experiences for both staff and refugees.
- Event Coordination: Help organize meetings, workshops, and advocacy events that bring together stakeholders from various sectors to advance refugee rights and sustainable solutions.
- Communication Support: Gain experience in drafting professional communications, reports, and advocacy materials that amplify the voices of displaced communities.
- Capacity Building: Participate in developing training programs that strengthen the advocacy skills of both JRS staff and refugee communities themselves.
Program Structure and Availability
The JRS International Office offers one placement for a Volunteer Service of 10 months in its Advocacy Unit in Rome, Italy. Candidates can apply at any time and are accepted on a rolling basis over a two-year period starting from January 21, 2025 . This extended application window provides flexibility for interested applicants to plan their commitment while ensuring JRS can select the most suitable candidate for this impactful role.
Comprehensive Benefits and Support Services
Financial Support and Accommodation
JRS-Europe provides substantial financial support to ensure volunteers can focus fully on their mission without undue financial stress:
- Pocket money for personal expenses
- Full reimbursement of apartment rent costs (within EU Solidarity Corps limits)
- Daily allowances for food and local transport based on actual costs
- Guidance and support in finding appropriate accommodation or co-living situations
The eligible maximum amounts for all financial support are determined by the EU Solidarity Corps Guide 2024, ensuring transparency and fairness in the compensation structure. This comprehensive support system allows volunteers to fully immerse themselves in the experience without financial worries.
Professional Training and Skill Development
Under the supervision of the head of the Advocacy Unit, volunteers receive extensive training in all aspects of advocacy within an international not-for-profit association:
- Develop skills in creating, revising, and presenting training materials on advocacy
- Learn to incorporate diverse media formats and tools into educational materials
- Gain experience in drafting professional communications and reports
- Build coordination and communication abilities
- Strengthen research and analytical skills
- Enhance knowledge of socio-political and cultural factors affecting advocacy
- Participate actively in community engagement
This professional development component ensures that volunteers not only contribute meaningfully during their service but also acquire valuable transferable skills that benefit their future careers in humanitarian work, international relations, or advocacy sectors.
The Ideal Candidate: Profile and Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this volunteer position, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Be between 18 and 29 years old (must sign the volunteer agreement before their 30th birthday)
- Be based in Belgium at the time of application
- Have the ability to speak and write in English (the working language)
- Knowledge of other European languages is considered an asset
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
While the program welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, certain skills and experiences strengthen an application:
- Knowledge of e-learning content production is particularly valued
- Previous studies in the refugee field or related disciplines
- Developed organizational skills with a strong sense of initiative
- Flexibility and ability to collaborate effectively in a multicultural team
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 applications
- Strong interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to work in multi-cultural environments
The program seeks individuals who demonstrate cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and genuine commitment to human rights and refugee issues. Even without extensive prior experience, candidates showing strong motivation and relevant potential can be competitive applicants.
Application Process and Selection Timeline
How to Apply
The application process for this volunteer position is designed to be accessible while ensuring proper candidate screening:
- Prepare application materials: While specific requirements aren't detailed in the search results, typical applications for such positions include a CV, motivation letter, and possibly references.
- Submit application: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through the channels specified by JRS.
- Selection process: The organization reviews applications and likely conducts interviews with promising candidates.
- Pre-departure preparation: Selected volunteers receive guidance and support before beginning their service .
Apply Here
Strategic Application Timing
Although applications are accepted on a rolling basis from January 21, 2025, until June 2027, applying early is advisable since there is only one position available. The extended application period spanning over two years provides flexibility but also means competition might be strong for this unique opportunity .
Life as a Volunteer in Rome: Beyond the Workplace
Cultural Immersion and Exploration
Volunteering in Rome offers unparalleled opportunities for cultural enrichment beyond the professional experience. During free time, volunteers can explore iconic monuments such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, enjoy world-renowned Roman cuisine, and immerse themselves in Italy's rich historical tapestry . The city serves as both workplace and living classroom, offering daily opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth.
Building International Networks
Working within JRS's international framework allows volunteers to develop professional networks spanning multiple countries and disciplines. These connections often prove invaluable for future career opportunities in the humanitarian sector and beyond. The multicultural environment of both Rome and the JRS office creates ideal conditions for forming lasting personal and professional relationships with people from diverse backgrounds .
Practical Aspects of Roman Life
While Rome offers incredible experiences, volunteers should prepare for some practical challenges:
- Housing search: Although JRS provides support, volunteers are asked to look for an apartment or co-living situation themselves, which requires initiative and adaptability.
- Transportation: Rome's public transportation system is extensive but can experience delays, as noted in other volunteer descriptions .
- Language: While English is the working language at JRS, learning basic Italian enhances daily life and community integration.
- Cost of living: The financial support provided is designed to cover reasonable expenses, but budgeting skills are still valuable .
Skills and Experience Gained Through Volunteer Service
Professional Competency Development
This volunteer position offers exceptional opportunities for developing hard and soft skills highly valued in the professional world. According to research on skills gained through volunteering, participants typically develop strengths in :
- Project management capabilities through coordinating advocacy initiatives
- Advanced communication skills across cultures and languages
- Research and analytical abilities through examining complex humanitarian issues
- Technical proficiency with various digital tools and platforms
- Cross-cultural competence through daily international collaboration
Personal Growth and Cultural Intelligence
Beyond measurable skills, volunteers undergo significant personal transformation through their service. Living and working in a different country develops :
- Increased confidence from navigating challenging situations
- Enhanced adaptability through problem-solving in new environments
- Deeper cultural understanding from immersion in Italian society
- Broadened perspectives on global issues and inequalities
- Stronger sense of purpose from contributing to meaningful causes
Seize This Transformative Opportunity
Volunteering with JRS in Rome represents more than just a temporary position—it offers a transformative experience that combines professional development, cultural immersion, and meaningful contribution to refugee advocacy. This opportunity allows motivated individuals to develop valuable skills while making a tangible difference in addressing one of our time's most pressing humanitarian challenges.
The comprehensive support package, including financial benefits, accommodation assistance, and professional training, makes this opportunity accessible to young people from Belgium who are passionate about human rights and refugee issues. The rolling application process throughout 2025-2027 provides flexibility for interested candidates to plan their participation.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and feel drawn to this meaningful work, don't hesitate to apply. This volunteer position promises to be a life-changing experience that will expand your capabilities, perspectives, and professional possibilities while contributing to vital advocacy for forcibly displaced people worldwide.