Who we are
CARDO Sierra Leone works with communities to support education, agriculture and livelihoods, advocacy, child protection, girls’ empowerment, solar energy and water. Volunteers contribute skills to priorities identified by CARDO staff and local communities. We welcome people who can work respectfully, follow agreed standards and complete practical assignments.
Where volunteers work
On-site placements are coordinated through CARDO in Makeni, with field activities arranged according to the assignment, community priorities and travel conditions. Remote volunteers work from their country of residence and collaborate online with a named CARDO supervisor. The office address for enquiries is 60 Teko Road, Makeni, Sierra Leone; confirm visiting arrangements before coming to the office.
Roles we are recruiting for
Our proposed priority areas include grant writing, donor research, fundraising strategy, partnership development, communications and monitoring and evaluation. On-site opportunities may include community development, agriculture, education and administration. View each role for its tasks and requirements. Availability depends on supervision and programme needs.
Remote roles
Grant Writing
Research eligible grants; draft proposals, concept notes and budgets with a supervisor.
Donor Research
Identify and profile prospective institutional and foundation donors matching CARDO’s programme areas.
Fundraising Strategy
Support planning of fundraising approaches and campaign structure with the team.
Partnership Development
Research and help draft outreach to potential organisational partners.
Communications
Support website, social media or newsletter content under CARDO’s editorial review.
Monitoring & Evaluation
Help design or refine simple tracking tools for programme results.
Graphic Design
Design flyers, social graphics or report layouts to CARDO’s brand.
IT Support
Support with website, data or basic technical needs, where CARDO has capacity to supervise.
Sierra Leone (on-site) roles
Community Development
Support staff-led community activities in Makeni and surrounding areas.
Agriculture
Support agriculture programme activities alongside CARDO field staff.
Education
Support education programme activities under staff supervision. Any activity involving direct contact with children requires additional safeguarding checks.
Administration
Support office administration and coordination tasks in Makeni.
What volunteers will do
Every accepted volunteer receives an assignment brief with a supervisor, schedule and expected outputs. Remote work may involve researching eligible grants, drafting proposals or preparing communication resources. On-site volunteers support staff-led activities and agreed office or field tasks. Volunteers do not work independently with children or represent CARDO without authorization.
Expected time commitment
Remote assignments are generally planned for 8 to 12 weeks at approximately 5 to 8 hours weekly. On-site placements are generally planned for 4 to 12 weeks with a schedule agreed before acceptance. Individual roles may differ. Tell us your availability so that we can discuss whether a suitable assignment is possible.
What CARDO provides
For accepted placements, CARDO provides an assignment brief, a named supervisor, orientation, relevant approved information and regular feedback. On-site volunteers also receive agreed local orientation and guidance on placement logistics. Accommodation, transfers, meals, internet, reimbursements and certificates are provided only as described in the written placement offer. A certificate or reference may be issued after satisfactory completion and handover.
What volunteers are responsible for
Volunteers agree to the code of conduct, confidentiality and safeguarding requirements and complete the tasks they accept. Remote volunteers normally provide their own computer and internet. On-site volunteers are responsible for the travel documents, insurance and personal costs identified in their placement offer. Ask for the full written cost schedule before making any booking or payment. Applying does not guarantee acceptance, visa approval or funded travel.
Application process
Choose a pathway and role, submit the application and relevant CV or sample, and wait for CARDO’s response. Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview and may be asked for references. Successful applicants receive a written offer, agreement and orientation before starting. Do not book travel until CARDO confirms the placement and relevant preparations are complete.
Safeguarding
CARDO expects volunteers to treat children and community members with dignity, follow staff supervision and respect privacy. Volunteer activities involving children require additional screening and safeguarding orientation. Photography and stories may only be used with appropriate consent and CARDO approval. Concerns can be reported privately to the named safeguarding contacts supplied during orientation: CARDO to confirm the safeguarding contact name(s), phone and email.
Frequently asked questions
Can I volunteer remotely?
Do I need grant-writing experience?
Are these paid jobs?
Is accommodation free?
Is there an application or programme fee?
Can CARDO support a visa application?
Can I work directly with children?
Can I fundraise using CARDO’s name?
When will I hear back?
Who can I contact?
Apply now.
Tell us about your skills, interests and availability. Complete the application form and upload the documents requested for your role. Please do not include sensitive beneficiary records or confidential former-employer material.