Join our community of dedicated volunteers supporting families affected by hostage situations and former hostages rebuilding their lives.
Your time, skills, and commitment enable us to deliver support to individuals facing extraordinary circumstances. Whether you can offer a few hours a month or are looking for a more substantial role, we have volunteering opportunities available for you.
Volunteering with Hostage International provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in crisis. As a volunteer, you will:
“I first came across this organisation in my role as a social worker and quickly became aware of the critical need for volunteers in this specialised area, where individuals and families in crisis often have nowhere else to turn. Volunteering for Hostage International has been an enlightening, challenging, and deeply rewarding experience. It’s shown me that even small contributions can make a meaningful difference.” Mary, volunteer caseworker.
We need fundraising volunteers to help us raise awareness and funds throughout Australia, Canada and European countries (including the UK).
What you’ll do:
Skills and experience needed:
Time commitment: Flexible – from one-off events to regular involvement
We’re looking for caseworkers across Canada, Australia, and countries in Europe (excluding the UK).
Our caseworker volunteers provide practical and emotional support for families affected by kidnapping or arbitrary detention. This specialised role requires specific skills and experience, supported by the case manager and CEO.
What you’ll do:
Skills and experience needed:
Time commitment: Be on standby to support a case, and when partnered on a case, offer a minimum of 2-4 hours per week, plus monthly supervision and training sessions
All volunteer caseworkers undergo comprehensive training and thorough background checks due to the sensitive nature of this role.
“I consider it a collective responsibility to ensure that individuals and their families who are impacted by this very specific and often invisible form of violence receive the specialised, adequate, and dignified support they deserve.
“Being close to people who were held, their families and loved ones — during captivity and beyond — has shown me how profound, complex, and long-lasting the effects can be. It has reinforced my belief in the need for sustained, compassionate support, and strengthened my commitment to stand alongside those affected.
“Volunteering with Hostage International allows me to draw on both my personal and professional experience to help strengthen care structures that respond to the needs of those affected — by being present, helping navigate practical challenges, and ensuring people feel seen and supported. Above all, Hostage International offers a space of solidarity and support — so that no one has to face this reality alone.” Olivia volunteer country manager – Germany.
We welcome professionals who can offer their expertise pro bono in areas such as:
If you have professional skills you’d like to offer, contact us to discuss how you could help.
Contact us if you’re interested in volunteering with Hostage International.
Email: [email protected]
Get in Touch
Email [email protected] and include your CV, along with a brief explanation of why you’d like to volunteer with Hostage International.
Initial Conversation
We’ll contact you to discuss your application and potential volunteer roles.
References and Checks
We’ll take up references and conduct any necessary background checks
Induction and Training
You’ll receive an induction to Hostage International and role-specific training.
Ongoing Support
Regular supervision and support throughout your volunteering experience
“Soon after I started volunteering for Hostage International, I realised that volunteering to help someone who needs it brings a reward far beyond a salary, and I am lucky to be able to experience that. I have received help from others in remarkably generous ways in the past when I needed it, and I now understand more fully why my colleagues did so. I now also understand better their shrugs and gentle acceptance of my thanks. In the end it comes down to a simple question of myself; if I can now help someone else in whatever small way when they need it, why would I not? They are certainly deserving of it. And I benefit from helping.” Dr Alastair Hull (member of the Hostage International mental health panel).
Do I need specific qualifications to volunteer?
Some roles require specific skills or experience, while others don’t. Caseworker roles typically require relevant experience in support, counselling, or humanitarian professions, while fundraising opportunities are open to anyone with enthusiasm and commitment.
How much time do I need to commit?
Our volunteering opportunities suit individuals with flexible schedules. Caseworker volunteers may be on standby with no case for weeks or months but are still required to attend quarterly training sessions. When allocated a case, caseworkers could be required for a minimum of 2-4 hours per week volunteering. We’ll discuss time commitments during the application process.
Can I volunteer remotely?
Yes, our work is predominantly remote, with volunteers based around the world, managed by our executive team, who also work remotely.
Will I receive training?
All volunteers receive an induction to Hostage International and role-specific training where needed. Volunteer caseworkers must complete comprehensive training before beginning their role.
Will my expenses be covered?
We reimburse reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred while volunteering, such as travel costs.
Do you accept volunteers from anywhere in the world?
Yes! As an international organisation growing to meet the needs of those taken hostage outside their home country, we actively seek volunteers from around the world primarily in the counties in which we receive requests for support. Contact us to discuss possibilities.
For more information about volunteering with Hostage International:
Email: [email protected]