Community Communications Support Volunteer – Technical Assistance Centre (TAC)

Mission and objectives

UNDP partners with people at all levels of society to help build nations that can withstand crisis, and drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone. On the ground in 177 countries and territories, UNDP offers global perspective and local insight to help empower lives and build resilient nations.

Context

Under the direct supervision of the designated UNDP Project Officer, the Community Communications Support Volunteer will support the planning and implementation of communications and public engagement activities for the Technical Assistance Centre (TAC) initiative. The volunteer will assist with community outreach, public information dissemination, event documentation, stakeholder engagement, and communications logistics to help increase public awareness, promote community participation, and document the impact of the initiative. The volunteer will work closely with the Project Officer responsible for communications to ensure that key messages are effectively shared before, during, and after the event while supporting visibility of the initiative among community members and stakeholders.

Task Description

Community Outreach and Public Awareness

• Support the implementation of community awareness and public information activities to promote the Technical Assistance Centre.
• Engage community members by sharing information about the purpose of the initiative, available services, event dates, locations, and participation opportunities.
• Distribute approved communication and promotional materials within assigned communities.
• Assist with identifying strategic locations and opportunities for community outreach and information sharing.
• Respond to general inquiries from community members and refer technical or project-specific questions to the appropriate project staff.
• Collect community feedback and relay observations to the Project Officer to support ongoing communications efforts. Communications and Event Visibility
• Assist with preparing communication materials for distribution before and during the event.
• Support the setup and maintenance of banners, signage, information boards, and other visibility materials at the event venue.
• Help ensure that communication materials are properly displayed and remain available throughout the event.
• Support the Project Officer in coordinating communication activities during the event.
• Assist with welcoming media representatives and visitors, as directed by the supervisor.
• Help maintain an organized communications and information desk, where applicable. Event Documentation:
• Capture photographs and short videos of event activities using mobile devices or designated equipment, in accordance with UNDP guidance and participant consent procedures.
• Document key activities, community engagement moments, stakeholder participation, and volunteer contributions.
• Assist with organizing photographs, captions, attendance information, and other event documentation.
• Record success stories, testimonials, or participant feedback for review by the Project Officer, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
• Support the preparation of communications materials highlighting event achievements. Digital Communications Support:
• Assist with monitoring participant engagement in communications activities during the event.
• Support the administration of digital engagement tools, including QR code registration, information resources, or online feedback platforms, where applicable.
• Help maintain accurate records of communication outputs and community engagement activities.
• Provide basic administrative support for communications-related tasks as assigned. Stakeholder and Participant Engagement:
• Serve as a friendly point of contact for participants seeking general information about the event.
• Support communication between volunteers, stakeholders, service providers, and the communications team during event implementation.
• Assist with directing participants to appropriate service areas and information points.
• Promote respectful, inclusive, and culturally sensitive communication with all participants. Other Responsibilities:
• Participate in orientation sessions, briefings, and training activities organized by UNDP.
• Demonstrate professionalism and uphold the values and principles of the United Nations and the United Nations Volunteers programme.
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure responsible handling of participant information and communications materials.
• Adhere to UNDP communications guidance, including obtaining appropriate consent before photographing or recording participants, where required.
• Comply with all safety, safeguarding, and operational procedures.
• Perform other related duties, within the scope of the assignment, as requested by the supervisor to support the successful implementation of the Technical Assistance Centre. Expected Results:
• Increased community awareness and participation in the Technical Assistance Centre.
• Effective dissemination of approved project information within target communities.
• Well-organized communications and visibility activities during the event.
• High-quality photographic and written documentation of event activities.
• Timely collection of community feedback and success stories.
• Positive visibility of the Technical Assistance Centre, UNDP, partner organizations, and the United Nations Volunteers programme.
• Strong support to the Project Officer in delivering communications objectives before, during, and after the event.

Competencies and values

• Commitment to volunteerism and community service.
• Professionalism and accountability.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Respect for diversity and inclusion.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Creativity and initiative.
• Planning and organizing.
• Adaptability and flexibility.
• Integrity and respect for confidentiality.

Living conditions and remarks

Savanna-la-Mar, located in the parish of Westmoreland, offers a relaxed coastal living environment with access to essential services and amenities. Electricity, water supply, mobile network coverage, banking facilities, supermarkets, and healthcare services are available within the town. As the capital of Westmoreland, Savanna-la-Mar serves as a commercial hub for the parish while maintaining a friendly community atmosphere. The cost of living is generally lower than in Jamaica’s main urban centres, and the area is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant local markets, and proximity to beautiful beaches and natural attractions. English is the official language, and Jamaican Patois is widely spoken. Public transportation is readily available, connecting Savanna-la-Mar with neighboring towns and other parts of the island. Volunteers are advised to observe standard safety precautions, remain aware of their surroundings, and take the time to familiarize themselves with local customs and community practices to ensure a positive and rewarding volunteer experience.