In our society, it is important that people hear and see each other. As a volunteer at COiL, you help people to reflect on what is important to them, now, in the past or in the future. This often makes you look at life differently. Many volunteers find that valuable. COiL offers training, guidance and consultation. Your travel expenses are reimbursed and you decide your own hours, in consultation with the people you visit.

What we are looking for in a volunteer

We are open to everyone. Conversations are about attention, respect and what is on someone's mind. For example, conversations are about loneliness, a sense of purpose, loss or choices and what gives people strength.

As a volunteer, you are a good listener. You are open to others, do not let yourself be guided by judgment in a conversation, and are willing to engage in dialogue. It is not your job to solve problems. You give the other person space to share experiences and stories. By telling their stories, people organise their thoughts and often gain more insight into how they understand themselves and others. 

When you start at the COiL, you first take the initial training. If you continue as a volunteer, you participate in follow-up meetings with other volunteers. You discuss any questions you have with the coordinator and are open to feedback and guidance. You are available as a volunteer for a minimum of one year and adhere to agreements and the COiL's code of conduct.

Step-by-step plan

1. You register your interest in volunteering for COiL by telephone or via the contact form;
2. A coordinator invites you for an introductory meeting;
3. You are taking part in an induction training course consisting of six sessions (the training is held twice a year);
4. Following the training, you will discuss with the coordinator whether you will continue as a volunteer. You will make this assessment together with the coordinator;
5. After the training, you sign the volunteer agreement;
6. A coordinator will apply for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG) on your behalf;
7. You are going to start as a volunteer;
8. You take part in a return meeting five times a year. This is to support your commitment as a volunteer and connection with your fellow volunteers.

Training sessions

The COiL offers training programmes for volunteers of the COiL and other housing, welfare and elderly care organisations:

• Meeting on life questions start training: for all COiL volunteers who visit people at home.
• Life story: learn how to write a life story book together with the person you are writing for.
• Facilitating a discussion group: learn how to lead a discussion group on meaning of life or life themes.
• COiL study days: for COiL volunteers to keep learning and stay inspired in their volunteering.

Documents for volunteers

Are you a volunteer at COiL? On this page you will find practical information, documents and materials that you need for your voluntary work. This page is password-protected. As a volunteer, you have this password.