Volunteering for development has a long tradition in Ireland.  It is recognised internationally that Ireland has a dedicated, professional and world-class corps of volunteers in developing countries.  Interest in overseas volunteering continues to be strong. Irish Aid strives to build on the spirit of volunteerism in Ireland by providing information about volunteering in Ireland and overseas and highlighting its own volunteer programmes.

Opportunities available for volunteering include the United Nations Volunteer (UNV) Programme, Election Observation Missions, and Online Volunteering.

On the 22nd January 2008, the Irish Aid Volunteering and Information Centre opened its doors on Dublin’s O’Connell Street. The centre boasts a Primary and Secondary school development education programme, and is a venue for NGO events, exhibitions, debates, film screenings, media launches and receptions, conferences and seminars and volunteering evenings. The centre’s experienced guides are also on hand to answer the public’s volunteering queries.