Do you speak Portuguese and enjoy supporting people? The Red Cross is looking for a dedicated volunteer to help visitors find their way to support services.

Do you speak Portuguese and enjoy supporting people? The Red Cross is looking for a dedicated volunteer to help visitors find their way to support services. You will be a point of contact during our helpdesk sessions and will also follow up with visitors by phone to check how they are doing and whether they have been able to access the support they need.

About Integrated Aid

Within the Integrated Aid department, the Red Cross helps people find assistance and support. Our services are aimed at the most vulnerable residents in Amsterdam-Amstelland, particularly those who (temporarily) do not have access to existing support services, are unfamiliar with how to find help, or are living without a valid residence permit.

We find it important that the individual’s own request for help is at the centre of our work. Together, we assess what is needed to stabilize a person’s situation, increase their self-reliance, and strengthen their resilience. We provide practical assistance where needed and refer people to organizations that can offer further support. By listening carefully, providing information, and connecting people with appropriate organizations, you help ensure that support remains accessible and dignified.

What will you do?

During the Helpdesk in Nieuw-West

Welcome visitors and create a safe environment for a conversation.

Listen to visitors’ questions and needs.

Help people find support or information.

Refer visitors to partner organizations where possible.

Report conversations in our registration system.

During Follow-Up Calls in Amsterdam-Zuidoost or Centrum

Contact visitors by phone who have previously visited our helpdesk.

Ask how they are doing and whether the information has been useful.

Record feedback and relevant observations.

Report any issues or concerns back to the team.

What do you bring?

We are looking for someone who:

Speaks Portuguese fluently; in addition to either Dutch or English.

Enjoys connecting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Is empathetic, listens well, and communicates respectfully.

Handles personal information with care and confidentiality.

Is reliable and follows through on commitments.

Experience in social work is welcomed but not required.

What do we expect from you?

You are available for a minimum of six months.

You can commit approximately two half-days per month:

One Friday afternoon at the helpdesk in Amsterdam Nieuw-West.

One half-day making follow-up calls from our office in Amsterdam Centre or Amsterdam Zuidoost.

You are willing to complete several mandatory training sessions and e-learning modules.

You can provide a Certificate of Conduct (VOG), for which you need a BSN number and registration in the Netherlands. The Red Cross will arrange the application and cover the costs.

What do we offer?

The opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of people in vulnerable situations.

A committed and diverse team of volunteers and professionals.

Training and support to further develop your knowledge and skills.

Opportunities for personal growth and to put your talents to use.

Reimbursement of travel expenses within the Amsterdam-Amstelland region.

Volunteer insurance coverage through the Red Cross while carrying out your volunteer activities.

Your contribution truly makes a difference. We look forward to hearing from you!

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