Building on its long history of delivering outdoor programs, Greenhill YMCA not only provides opportunities and encouragement for individuals but also for volunteers, fostering growth and development in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Every January and every September Greenhill YMCA recruits volunteers to broaden their experiences and take on new challenges in pursuit of a new and deeper learning. “Our volunteers are our spine and they come from all over the world! We are currently open for January and September 2025 applications” says YMCA`s representative.
Greenhill YMCA is an outdoor learning and residential centre located on a picturesque 17-acre site on the slopes of Slieve Donard Mountain, in the heart of the Kingdom of Mourne. The centre offers stunning panoramic views over Newcastle and Dundrum Bay, with the Mountains behind and the Sea in front—views that must be seen to be truly appreciated.
For over 100 years, YMCA has been delivering outdoor programs at the Greenhill site. The dedicated team of local and international staff make Greenhill YMCA an ideal place for young people to reach their full potential.
Greenhill offers a range of accommodation options to provide a variety of residential experiences. Combined with an expanding range of activities, the centre provides everything needed for an enriching stay.
Whether seeking a fully packed activity schedule or a more relaxed stay without activities, Greenhill YMCA can offer personalised programs tailored to each group’s individual needs and budgets.
Year-long programmes
If you are 18 to 28 years old, have just finished school and would like to take a gap year, or you are looking to deepen your skills, Greenhill is the best place for you! We have a variety of areas you can apply for depending on your skills and interests:
- Outdoor instructor
- Food service operation
- Administration
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Communications
Through volunteer experience in a mission-based, not-for-profit organisation you will gain an understanding as to how your work positively impacts our users and greater enthusiasm for the outdoors.
You will complete the program better prepared to face upcoming challenges such as starting/finishing college, applying for/engaging in employment opportunities, living independently and exploring the world. Our volunteers live and learn as part of an intentional community within Greenhill YMCA. Additional training opportunities or certifications may be available.
- HOURS OF WORK: 10-12 sessions per week (Monday – Sunday) . Sessions will take place in the Morning, Afternoon and some Evenings
- WEEKLY ALLOWANCE: £70.00 (STERLING) per week
- ACCOMMODATION: Self catering accommodation is provided free of charge. You would share accommodation with a group of around 30 other residential volunteers and you must share your room with another volunteer.
TRAINING: Our full time volunteers will undertake a training programme. The training programme will cover the main areas of work that helpers will undertake throughout their period of stay. Following this period of training, helpers will be given the opportunity to further develop their skills through ongoing training
Visa: Those wishing to join us for our year long programme who are not from the UK/Ireland will be required to apply for a temporary worker – charity worker visa (T5). Please factor in the costs of this when considering whether you want to apply or not. See info here As a Greenhill volunteer you would be exempt from the ”money to support yourself” requirement. However, this is a year-long visa. After you finish your volunteering year you must exit the UK.
If you are happy to proceed please find attached all the documentation you need:
For your application to be considered we need to receive the following:
- A completed Registration Form
- 2 (two) References
- A completed Police Check from your own Country.
The organisers hope to hear from you and please reach out if you have any questions and don’t forget to check out their social media (Facebook, Instagram and TikTok) and website to get a better understanding of Greenhill YMCA.
