AMBASSADOR VOLUNTEER - Role Description

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Purpose

The purpose of our JT Ambassador Volunteers is to increase awareness and understanding of Spinal Muscular Atrophy and the work of the Jennifer Trust by representing and promoting JTSMA at fundraising and information events across the UK.

Role Description

To represent and promote the work of JT at a range of events, which may include: collecting cheques; staffing information stands at exhibitions or community group / school fundraising events in your area.
On many occasions you may be required to give a brief talk and on all occasions you will be provided with support and information by The Jennifer Trust.

Personal Skills and Qualities needed

Enthusiasm and sociability
Reliability
Flexibility
Confidence in public speaking

Application process

Application form to include names of 2 character referees
Telephone, web based or face to face discussion with Volunteers’ Co-ordinator or Community Fundraiser
Training and Support provided by The Jennifer Trust
Opportunity to discuss the role and your situation, without obligation, with JT Volunteers’ Co-ordinator or Community Fundraiser
Induction session with initial training to cover
- Overview of The Jennifer Trust and SMA issues
- Confidentiality
- Equal Opportunities
- Accessibility
- Guidelines for giving talks etc.
Ongoing telephone and / or Email support from JT Volunteers’ Co-ordinator and Community Fundraiser
Ongoing access to updates and developments through the Volunteers’ area of the JT website

Commitment Required each year

Approx 5 hours initial telephone and / or face to face Induction Sessions and follow-up paperwork (flexible).
Update sessions in any subsequent years
Occasional attendance (primarily in your area) at community group events etc to represent JT
Liaising with JT staff
Understanding of and adherence to The Jennifer Trust Confidentiality and Equal Opportunities policies
Commitment to uphold The JT Volunteer Agreement
Regular commitment to proactively log onto Volunteers’ area of JT website

Questions and Answers about the role of a JT Ambassador Volunteer

Why does The Jennifer Trust need Ambassador Volunteers?

As the Jennifer Trust is a small but national charity, we look to our Ambassadors to represent the charity at a wide range of events across the UK. The personal passion and enthusiasm of our Ambassadors can powerfully convey the message of the Jennifer Trust to increase understanding and awareness awareness of SMA and the work that we do.

How often will I be expected to attend events/fundraisers?

There may only be a few opportunities in your area in any year, but you will be given the option to attend if ambassadors are needed at any events nearby - or even if you are willing to travel further afield. Keeping in touch with the JT volunteer forum will allow you to keep abreast of other events around the country.

Do I need to organise events?

No. Individuals and organisations will contact and liaise with JT and opportunities will be posted on the JT volunteer forum, with details of time, venue and audience.

What sort of events will I be expected to attend?

Our supporters organise all sorts of events, which you may be asked to attend as a representative, if needed, perhaps at a post-event cheque presentation at a school or rotary club. At most events you will be expected to give a short talk about SMA and the work of the Jennifer Trust whilst thanking the organisation/individual. Full support will be given on the content of your talks.

How much experience do I need to have?

Knowledge of SMA and the work of The Jennifer Trust is essential, but detailed information will be provided in your training, which you will need to feel confident to speak about. We would expect you, with our support, to keep your knowledge up to date with significant developments. Direct experience of SMA, however, is not essential, but a passion to help and support the Jennifer Trust and its members is.

How far do I have to travel?

There will be travel involved and some evening work will be expected, therefore it is an advantage to have access to transportation. The exact distances involved will vary, but you can choose how far you are prepared to travel.

Will the talks be a standard presentation?

Although you will be given access to presentation materials, audience and location will vary and therefore talks will need to be adapted to suit the listeners, facilities and technology available. Again, support and advice will be given

Can I claim expenses for my volunteering work?

We greatly value the time you give and we do not expect you to be ‘out of pocket’ as a result of your volunteering for us. Reasonable expenses (such as travel to the venue, phone calls you have made during planning) for volunteering can be claimed if these have been previously agreed with the Volunteers’ Co-ordinator or Community Fundraiser in accordance with the JT document ‘Permitted Expenses for Volunteers’.

If you are interested in this volunteering role or would like to find out more, please click here.