Asylum and Refugee Care (AARC) was founded in October 2022 and formally registered as a SCIO – Scottish Charity in April 2023. AARC predominantly supports people seeking asylum who are living in the North-East who have No Recourse to Public Funds. We ensure that for this group basic needs are met when people first arrive; this includes clothing, digital needs and welcome packs which give individuals some basic essentials to help with their integration. We also share information about local churches and mosques, doing introductions where appropriate as this helps them with their integration. AARC screens for individuals who have been victims of human trafficking and exploitation, doing referrals to specialist services where required and we ensure that these individuals have the appropriate local support to help support them through their traumas. The support we offer is person-centred, on a case-by-case basis. AARC also promotes volunteering opportunities, as this helps individuals to integrate into their new communities, while developing their knowledge of the English language. We continue to support individuals as they receive a decision on their asylum claim and provide any ongoing support as required. AARC is a small charity, run by one of its founders and a small number of volunteers. This is an exciting opportunity to join the Board of Trustees of this relatively new charity. Trustee meetings take place approximately every 2-3 months, as well as the AGM. At trustee meetings, you will be updated on the activities of the charity including its challenges and contribute to the direction of the charity. Training will be provided, giving an overview of what the trustee role involves. We would love Trustees from a diverse range of backgrounds who can use their experiences to contribute to decisions. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions. For more information please contact Jayne Smith at email: jaynesmith@asylumandrefugeecare.co.uk or telephone 07392 856117.

This opportunity is part of (No More Tears No More Isolation) Project, Where Linknet Mentoring targets to help adult people from ethnic minority, immigrants, and refugees to overcome isolation, Loneliness, Lack of confidence and to develop their English language skills. Meeting your befriendee 1-2 hours once a week, makes a big difference in that person’s live, where they can feel at home in Scotland and facilitate their involvement in the society and developing their skills. In return, it is a self-rewarding opportunity, and can aid those who wants to build in their CV in social work, teaching, psychology, etc. It is flexible as it can be conducted online/face-to-face, and someone can accommodate it to their schedule.

The Cats Whiskers is a small local charity set up in 2018 and has since gone from strength to strength, leading to the opening of the new rehoming shelter in late 2022. Their charity relies on the support of their many volunteers who freely give their time and talents. The group operate based solely on fundraising, donations and volunteers to continue to look after the cats in their care and always need dedicated, reliable volunteers that can help out and of course, new volunteers are always welcome. They are a passionate team who want the best for their feline friends and nothing gives them more pleasure than to see them happy in their ‘forever’ homes. They need volunteers to support the shop's operations. They will be serving the public, maintaining stock on shop floor, sorting donations handed into us at shop, keeping shop clean and neat at all times, The team do an induction at the shop with every volunteer, find suitable buddy for them, show how to sort donations ie separate, store and trash. They, if needed, will also be taught to operate the till. The shop is open from 11-3pm Tuesday to Saturday. Able to work with other people, Pleasant, friendly and confident attitude would be advantageous for serving the public and being first point of contact for the charity. Due to handling money and serving public we would ask for the volunteers to be over 18. Due to size of premises at the moment we can’t take someone in a wheelchair.

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you have a heart for helping those in need? Mamacita Foundation is currently seeking a dedicated Volunteer Food Bank Coordinator to join our team and lead our efforts in combating food insecurity in Aberdeen. As a Volunteer Food Bank Coordinator, you will play a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of our food bank, ensuring efficient distribution of food parcels to individuals and families in need. You will work closely with volunteers, donors, and community partners to coordinate food collections, manage inventory, and organize distribution schedules. Join our volunteer team and be an integral part of the Mamacita Foundation’s efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community in Aberdeen. A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. All volunteer support is greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Vivian Draghici, Chief Officer at email: info@mamacitafoundationuk.com or telephone: 07449826988.

Grandmentors is an award-winning, inter-generational mentoring programme, operating in various locations across the UK. We are currently looking for new Volunteer Mentors to join our programme in Perth and Kinross which launched in 2023. It is widely recognised that care-experienced young people are some of the most disadvantaged in society. Many are in care because they have experienced, or are at risk of, neglect and/or abuse. Security and stability are often missing from their lives. We recruit, train and support volunteer mentors (normally but not exclusively aged 50+) who draw on their wealth of professional and personal life experience and skills to support young people (aged 16-26) through life transitions on their pathway to independence. Grandmentors is all about empowering and positive relationships, aligning to “The Promise” that Scotland made to its care experienced population. Young people are listened to, heard, and responded to. They benefit from safe, consistent loving relationships, and access to meaningful support to boost mental & physical wellbeing, resilience, and confidence. Grandmentors facilitate conversations around keeping well, coping strategies, self-care, and self-management. Each young person alongside their Grandmentor co-produces a bespoke support plan and set goals based on their needs. They explore and review the young person’s challenges, and priorities. These range from enhancing mental & physical health and wellbeing, dealing with stress and conflict, support to access sustainable and appropriate housing, career, and education goals, budget planning and more.

As a volunteer with the Mamacita Foundation charity you will be at the forefront of building and maintaining strong relationships with the local community and key stakeholders. We currently have great opportunities to volunteer with us including: • Community Outreach Volunteers • Youth Program Volunteers • Community Engagement Volunteers • IT and Technology Support Volunteers • Volunteer Coordinators • Administrative Assistant Volunteers • Foodbank Volunteers Join our volunteer team and be an integral part of the Mamacita Foundation’s efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community in Aberdeen. A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. All volunteer support is greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Vivian Draghici, Chief Officer at email: info@mamacitafoundationuk.com or telephone: 07449826988.

Independent Monitoring Boards are made up of over a thousand unpaid volunteers operating in every prison in England and Wales, and every immigration detention facility across the UK. IMB members are the eyes and ears of the public, appointed by ministers to perform a vital task: independent monitoring of prisons and immigration detention. They report on whether the individuals held there are being treated fairly and humanely and whether prisoners are being given the support they need to turn their lives around. This can make a huge difference to the lives of those held within these facilities. We are looking for volunteers to join the Scotland and Northern Ireland Short-Term Holding Facility board to monitor Aberdeen Airport. For more information please contact Rebecca Sheehan, Regional Support Lead at email: rebecca.sheehan1@justice.gov.uk and details are also available at https://imb.org.uk/prison-volunteer/prison-volunteer-uk/be-a-prison-volunteer-in-scotland-northern-ireland/#scotland

The IT and Technology Support Specialist Volunteer at Mamacita Foundation plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth technology operations and supporting the organization's digital infrastructure. This position involves providing technical assistance to staff and volunteers, troubleshooting issues, and implementing solutions to enhance the foundation's digital capabilities. *Responsibilities: • Technology Support: Assist staff and volunteers with technology-related inquiries, including hardware, software, and network issues, to ensure efficient daily operations. • Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve technical problems promptly, employing analytical skills to identify root causes and implement effective solutions. • System Maintenance: Regularly update and maintain the foundation's hardware, software, and digital systems to ensure they operate optimally and securely. • Data Security: Implement data backup and security measures to safeguard the organization's information and protect sensitive data from unauthorized access. • Training and Documentation: Provide training sessions to staff and volunteers on using technology tools effectively. Create and maintain documentation for technology processes and procedures. • Technology Upgrades: Research and recommend new technology solutions that align with the organization's needs and budget constraints. • Hardware and Software Setup: Set up and configure computers, printers, and other technology devices as needed for new staff and volunteers. • Cybersecurity Awareness: Promote cybersecurity best practices among staff and volunteers, emphasizing the importance of data protection and safe online behaviour. • Technology Planning: Collaborate with the management team to develop and implement technology plans that support the foundation's strategic goals. • Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends, tools, and best practices to enhance the foundation's technological capabilities. Join us as an IT and Technology Support Volunteer and be an integral part of the Mamacita Foundation's efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community in Aberdeen. A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. All volunteer support is greatly appreciated.

As a Youth Program Volunteer at Mamacita Foundation, you will lead and oversee our initiatives focused on supporting and empowering young immigrants in Aberdeen. Your role involves developing and implementing youth-oriented programs, mentoring and guiding participants, and collaborating with educational institutions and community partners. *Responsibilities: • Design and coordinate youth-oriented programs that address the unique needs and challenges faced by young immigrants. • Provide mentorship and support to youth participants, promoting personal growth and educational advancement. • Collaborate with schools, colleges, and universities to establish partnerships and identify educational opportunities for young beneficiaries. • Organize workshops, skill-building sessions, and career development programs to enhance the prospects of young immigrants. • Monitor program outcomes and conduct assessments to measure the impact of youth initiatives. Join us as a Youth Program Volunteer and be an integral part of the Mamacita Foundation's efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community in Aberdeen. A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. All volunteer support is greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Vivian Draghici, Chief Officer at email: info@mamacitafoundationuk.com or telephone: 07449826988.

As a Community Outreach Volunteer at Mamacita Foundation, you will be at the forefront of building and maintaining strong relationships with the local community and key stakeholders. Your role involves advocating for the foundation's mission, coordinating outreach efforts, and fostering partnerships to expand the reach and impact of our programs. Mamacita Foundation values diversity and inclusivity and encourages people from all backgrounds to join our team. We believe in the power of community partnerships in achieving our mission of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for immigrants in Aberdeen. *Responsibilities: • Develop and implement community outreach strategies to raise awareness of the foundation's services and initiatives. • Identify potential community partners, donors, and collaborators to strengthen support for our mission. • Represent Mamacita Foundation at community events, networking opportunities, and public engagements. • Organize and participate in community forums and focus groups to understand community needs and perspectives. • Work closely with program managers to ensure that programs address the specific needs and interests of the community. Join us as a Community Outreach Volunteer and be an integral part of the Mamacita Foundation's efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community in Aberdeen. A fantastic opportunity to help and make a real difference. All volunteer support is greatly appreciated. For more details please contact Vivian Draghici, Chief Officer at email: info@mamacitafoundationuk.com or telephone: 07449826988.