At Monaghan Volunteer Centre, our team is here to support you every step of the way in finding a volunteering opportunity that suits you. We understand that getting started can feel overwhelming, but we make the process simple and accessible.
You can begin by registering on I-Vol.ie and begin to identify opportunities that match your interests, availability, and skills.
If you would prefer a more personal approach, you can contact us directly or arrange a one-to-one appointment with one of our Development Workers. During this chat, we can talk through your interests, goals, and availability, and help match you with suitable opportunities in your area.
When you register on the I-VOL platform through Monaghan Volunteer Centre, you create your own personal volunteer profile. This allows you to apply directly for opportunities that interest you and keep track of your activity.
Through your account, you will be able to:
• Apply for volunteering roles
• View and manage your applications
• Save roles to return to later
• Record your volunteering hours
We will also send you regular email updates highlighting new and relevant opportunities.
Your personal data is stored securely, and we only share your details with organisations that you actively apply to. You remain in control of your account at all times, including the option to unsubscribe from emails or request deletion of your data.
Choosing the right role is key to having a positive volunteering experience. We recommend taking a few minutes to carefully read through each role description before applying.
Some important things to consider include:
• Tasks – What will you be doing? Do the tasks interest you, and do you feel comfortable carrying them out?
• Skills and Training – Do you already have the required skills, or is training provided?
• Location – Is the role accessible to you in terms of travel and distance?
• Time Commitment – Does the schedule fit with your availability and lifestyle?
• Language Requirements – Some roles may require a certain level of English
• Screening Process – Some roles may involve interviews, references, or Garda Vetting
If you’re unsure about any aspect of a role, you can always contact us and we’ll help you decide if it’s the right fit.
Yes, absolutely. We know that many people prefer to talk things through before committing to a role.
At Monaghan Volunteer Centre, we offer one-to-one support where you can discuss your interests, availability, and any concerns you might have. Appointments can take place in person, over the phone, or via Zoom, depending on what suits you best.
This personalised support can be especially helpful if you’re new to volunteering, returning after a break, or looking to build skills for employment.
We receive new requests for volunteers from organisations across County Monaghan on a daily basis, so our listings are constantly being updated.
If you don’t see something that suits you right away, we recommend:
• Checking back regularly
• Using the “Recently Added” option on I-VOL
• Signing up for our email updates
You can also contact us directly, and we will work with you to identify opportunities that may not yet be visible or help you refine your search based on your interests.
International Protection Applicants are allowed to volunteer and are welcome to register with us. We will not always have a suitable volunteering role available immediately. You can find more information about volunteering in your situation and about why reference letters are not essential for your application to remain in Ireland on the Volunteer Ireland website at: Volunteer Ireland
We receive new requests for volunteers from organisations across County Monaghan on a regular basis, so our listings are constantly being updated.
If you don’t see something that suits you right away, we recommend:
• Checking back regularly
• Using the “Recently Added” option on I-VOL
• Signing up for our email updates
You can also contact us directly, and we will work with you to identify opportunities that may not yet be visible or help you refine your search based on your interests.
Once you apply for a role through I-VOL, we are notified and will pass your expression of interest on to the organisation.
In most cases, your basic contact details (name, email, phone number) are shared with the organisation, and they will contact you directly to take the next steps. This might involve an informal chat, an application form, or an interview, depending on the role.
The recruitment process is managed by the organisation, but we remain available to support you. We will also follow up with you after approximately two weeks, and again after four weeks, to check how things are progressing and offer any assistance if needed.
This can vary depending on the type of role you apply for.
Some opportunities, such as event support or short-term projects, can begin quite quickly, sometimes within a few days. Other roles, particularly those involving children or vulnerable adults, may require Garda Vetting, references, and training, which can take a few weeks.
On average, you can expect the process to take anywhere from a few days to around one month. While this can feel like a delay, these steps are important to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone involved.
It’s always a good idea to first check your spam or junk email folder and your voicemail, as sometimes messages can be missed.
Organisations often have limited staff or rely on volunteers, so response times can vary. We recommend allowing up to three weeks before following up directly.
If you’re unsure or would like support, you can contact Monaghan Volunteer Centre, and we’ll be happy to assist or follow up on your behalf.
That’s completely okay. Volunteering should be a positive experience, and sometimes a role may not feel like the right fit.
If you decide not to proceed, simply let the organisation know as soon as possible. This allows them to plan accordingly and offer the opportunity to someone else. Clear communication is always appreciated and helps maintain a positive relationship.
Expense policies vary between organisations. Some may offer to reimburse travel or provide meals, while others, particularly smaller community groups, may not have the resources to do so.
We encourage organisations to cover expenses where possible, and you should feel comfortable asking about this early in the process. Being clear from the outset helps ensure there are no misunderstandings later on.
Yes, volunteering is flexible, and most organisations understand that people need to take breaks.
If you plan to take time off, it’s important to let the organisation know in advance so they can plan around your absence. Each organisation may have its own approach, so it’s always a good idea to discuss this when you start.
Most organisations have insurance in place to cover volunteers while they are carrying out their agreed roles. However, this can vary depending on the organisation and activity.
We recommend confirming this directly with the organisation before you begin, so you feel fully informed and comfortable.
In most cases, references are provided by the organisation you volunteered with, as they can speak directly about your contribution and performance.
Your I-VOL profile can also act as a useful record of your volunteering activity.
At Monaghan Volunteer Centre, we can only provide references for individuals who have volunteered directly with us on projects run by our own staff.
Yes, in most cases you can volunteer while receiving social welfare payments, but there are some guidelines to be aware of.
Sometimes people in receipt of social welfare want to volunteer but are worried about how volunteering might affect their social welfare payments. The Department of Social Protection generally does not penalise anyone in receipt of jobseekers benefit or allowance for volunteering, in fact the department wants to encourage it.
However, there are some points to be aware of:
Yes, and many people start exactly this way. Most roles don’t require prior experience, and organisations are usually happy to provide guidance and training.
A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and reliability are often more important than experience.
Volunteering can help you develop a wide range of skills, including communication, teamwork, organisation, and leadership. It can also give you practical experience in areas such as events, administration, coaching, or community work.
Many volunteers also find that their confidence grows as they gain experience and try new things.
Yes, volunteering can be a valuable step towards employment. It allows you to build experience, strengthen your CV, and gain references.
It can also help you explore different career paths and demonstrate your commitment and initiative to potential employers.
Yes, many organisations offer flexible options such as events, fundraising activities, and seasonal projects.
These are ideal if you want to try volunteering without committing to a long-term role.
Yes, there are opportunities for young people to get involved. Some roles may have age restrictions, and under 18s may need parental consent.
We can help identify safe and suitable opportunities based on age and interests.
All U18 volunteers will require permission from parent/guardian to register with Monaghan Volunteer Centre. This is obtained a) during the registration process on i-vol and b) by verbal agreement either in person or over the phone with Monaghan Volunteer Centre staff.
The first step is to apply for a volunteering role. If Garda Vetting is required, the organisation will guide you through the process.
Typically, you will:
• Complete a Vetting Inviter Form provided by the organisation
• Provide proof of identity
• Receive an email from the National Vetting Bureau with a link to complete your online vetting form
It’s important to complete all details carefully to avoid delays.
If you have any questions about your vetting application, you should contact the organisation you applied to volunteer with. They are responsible for submitting your application and can advise you on next steps.
All vetting is carried out by the National Gardai Vetting Bureau.
Volunteer Centres, including Monaghan Volunteer Centre, may act as liaison points for some organisations.
No. Garda Vetting can only be carried out through an organisation that you are volunteering or working with. It cannot be requested on a personal basis.
In most cases, yes. Vetting is carried out on behalf of each individual organisation, so you will usually need to complete a new application for each role.
Typically, e-vetting applications are processed within around 8 working days, but this can vary.
Delays can occur if information is entered incorrectly, so it’s important to double-check your details before submitting.
Monaghan Volunteer Centre can support your organisation in planning a meaningful and impactful volunteer day by connecting you with suitable community groups and projects.
While we may not directly manage all aspects of the day, we can provide guidance, suggest opportunities, and help ensure a good match between your team and community needs.
Corporate volunteers can take part in a wide range of activities, including:
• Community clean-ups and environmental projects
• Painting and maintenance work
• Supporting local events or fundraising activities
• Skills-based volunteering such as mentoring or workshops
We can help identify projects that suit your team’s size, interests, and skills.
It’s best to plan several weeks or even months in advance, particularly for larger teams. This allows time to identify a suitable project, coordinate with the community group, and ensure everything is properly organised.
Last-minute requests can be difficult to accommodate, especially for smaller organisations.
In many cases, yes. Companies are encouraged to cover the cost of materials needed for the project, such as paint, tools, or equipment.
It is also considered best practice to make a donation to the organisation, recognising the time and effort involved in planning and hosting the activity.
Many groups welcome support from corporate volunteers, but capacity can vary. Some may not have experience hosting teams or may not have suitable projects at certain times.
We can help identify organisations that are open and prepared to host corporate groups.
Community groups are often busy and may not always have the capacity to respond quickly.
We recommend being clear about what your team can offer and being flexible. You can also work with Monaghan Volunteer Centre to help identify suitable opportunities and make connections.
Insurance arrangements can vary. Some organisations will have volunteer insurance in place, while your company’s insurance may cover employees travelling to and from the activity.
It’s important to check both with the organisation and your own insurer in advance.
For one-off or occasional volunteering, Garda Vetting is generally not required.
However, if your team is engaging regularly or working closely with children or vulnerable adults, vetting may be necessary. Each organisation will assess this on a case-by-case basis.
We understand that circumstances can change, but it’s important to give as much notice as possible.
Community organisations invest time and resources into preparing for your visit, so rescheduling rather than cancelling outright is always appreciated where possible.
Encouraging staff to take part can be supported by:
• Promoting the impact of the activity
• Gaining support from leadership
• Sending calendar invites and reminders
• Encouraging team leads to get involved
Creating a sense of purpose and shared impact often leads to stronger engagement.
Our normal procedure is for volunteers to register with us online and then we contact them by phone or email. If you prefer, you can make an appointment to meet with us in person at our office in Monaghan Town. Our services are free of charge and open to everyone. If you are under the age of 18 we will need the permission of your parent or guardian before we work with you.
You can register with us online and we will contact you within one week, usually less. Register here You can also browse the volunteering opportunities available in Co. Monaghan and apply for any you are interested in at Browse Opportunities
