Frequently asked questions about volunteering

Who can volunteer for the Red Cross?

If you are interested in the activities of the Red Cross and share the principles of the organisation, you are warmly welcome to participate as a volunteer!

Diversity is an important value for us and we encourage volunteers from different backgrounds and age groups to join our activities. This also guarantees that we can be an effective helper in all communities.

Why should I become a volunteer?

As a Red Cross volunteer you are part of a unique chain of helpers and the activities of the largest humanitarian operator in the world. We help the most vulnerable people and bring joy and hope to people's lives.

As a volunteer, you work together with other motivated volunteers in meaningful tasks and promote the well-being of your community.

Do I need some special skills?

You do not need any special skills, as we will familiarise and train all volunteers for their tasks. We will try to find you a task where you can utilise your existing expertise, strengths or interests.

What kind of volunteering tasks are available in the Red Cross?

The broad spectrum of our volunteer activities includes tasks related to first aid, friend visitor activities, youth work, supporting immigrants and humanitarian law, among other things. You can read more about our volunteer activities here.

How much time does volunteering take?

This depends entirely on how much time you want to spend volunteering. You can participate in planning and actively implementing the activities of the Red Cross organised in your municipality or only participate from time to time – all volunteers are equally valuable to us.

How do I sign up as a volunteer?

To become a volunteer, create a profile in our Oma Punainen Risti system. You can browse the volunteer activities organised in your region in Oma Punainen Risti and sign up for events and forms of activity that are of interest to you. You can also contact your own branch, which will gladly support you in finding a suitable volunteer task. We are happy to have you on board!

Should volunteers also be members of the Red Cross?

You do not have to be a member to volunteer; everyone interested in our activities is always welcome to join in. However, we encourage our volunteers to consider becoming members.

Volunteering is the basis for all our activities, but the membership fees we collect play an important role in facilitating local volunteer activities and training of volunteers.

Am I insured when performing volunteer tasks?

Yes. Our volunteers are insured in all volunteer tasks of the Red Cross. This includes meetings, courses, training, camps, Kontti activities, Youth Shelters, collections and exercises as well as travel and return trips directly related to them.