Overview of Volunteerism

Volunteerism is one of the fundamental values for developing the community spirit and social solidarity in the form of charity work as a means for improving human life. It can be used as a tool for improving equal opportunity, participation and contribution to the spread of social and economic support and helps to build the moral, social and cultural development of the society through economic and social services support.

Volunteerism in FGAE

FGAE is known for its established culture of volunteer mobilization and successive governance structure. As history tells, the Association establishment, management and ownership have been attributed to Ethiopian volunteers throughout its long years of service tenure. In it’s more than five decades of its operations, FGAE had a solid, vibrant, meaningful volunteer’s involvement and high-profile governance structure. The dedication and commitment of volunteers plays a significant role in cementing the current level of Association reputations and importance in the SRH arena and continued to be a driving factor and future aspiration of the organization journey.

Diversifying volunteer base, enhancing recruitment, mobilizing resources, overseeing management function, engaging at national and regional lobby and advocacy event, establishing partnership and networking alliances are among the key responsibilities of its members. The following are FGAE volunteer membership category:

• Ordinary Members
• Lifelong Members
• Golden Members
• Corporate Members
• WYAMH Associate Volunteer

Key principles of FGAE Volunteerism

• Choice; – it’s a choice made freely by each individual. Whilst volunteering is not a contractual agreement, the Association ensures all volunteers are aware of FGAE commitment.
• Diversity; – should be open to all implementing equalities; policies and schemes and a welcoming approach are fundamental to support diversity.
• Mutual benefit;- offer their contribution unwaged, but should gain in other ways in return for their contribution to the community and clients
• Recognition; – there is explicit recognition of the value of the contribution made by volunteers to the Association, community and society and wider social objectives.
• Support;- good support, management and induction of volunteers are an essential part of volunteering