For organisations
How the transparency index works
The transparency index is an assessment tool with 20 questions, divided over 5 themes. For each question an organisation scores 0, 1 or 2 points. The final score is a percentage: 40 points is 100%, 20 points is 50%.
How we award points
0 points
The organisation does not meet the criterion.
1 point
Something in between: the organisation meets it somewhat or a little.
2 points
The organisation meets the criterion.
The 20 criteria
Below is a short description of the criteria for each theme. Each statement describes what an organisation should meet.
Theme 1
Mission and profile
1.a. Profile
In our communication we aim to present an equal, honest and ethically responsible picture of the relationship between Western volunteers and the local population. The equal relationship is central.
1.b. Purpose and mission
We pay ample attention to our mission and vision as the foundation for the volunteering we offer.
1.c. Working with vulnerable groups
We do not offer projects in a children’s home. Projects with children focus on children who still live at home. (Other vulnerable groups are also covered.)
1.d. Conditions
We are clear about the conditions for volunteers who take part.
Theme 2
Visibility and responsiveness
2.a. Contact
You can reach us directly, by phone or email.
2.b. Email response
A test of the reply to an email sent in.
2.c. Email response, content
The quality of the content of that reply. (The editors of Volunteer Aware repeat 2.b. and 2.c. every year.)
2.d. References
We put interested people in touch with former volunteers so they can gather information.
Theme 3
Foundation and finances
3.a. Foundation
On our website we clearly explain our legal form and financial basis.
3.b. Organisational transparency
On our website we show how our organisation is structured and introduce ourselves on an About us page. Associations and foundations publish their annual reports.
3.c. Prices and specification
We inform participants in detail about the costs and are clear about what is and is not included.
3.d. Purpose of costs
We are open about how costs are divided and what goes to local partners.
Theme 4
Partners and projects
4.a. Partner projects
We explain in advance that we work with local partners and which partner a volunteer will work with.
4.b. Tasks
We describe tasks and responsibilities and have personal contact in advance, so expectations are right.
4.c. Partner profile
How is the information about partner projects presented?
4.d. Results
We build sustainable relationships with partners, are honest about the impact of volunteers and give insight into developments at our partners.
Theme 5
Organisation and process
5.a. Intake and selection
We pay careful attention to the intake, before departure and at the destination.
5.b. Preparation beforehand
We prepare volunteers well for the culture and the project, and explain in advance what that preparation looks like.
5.c. Support and contact
We actively keep in touch with our volunteers and our partner about progress.
5.d. Evaluation afterwards
We evaluate in depth and in person, and use the evaluations to improve projects and partner relationships.
Honest and transparent
Is a score not right?
The first assessment, the baseline measurement, is always carried out by a researcher from Volunteer Aware. In the result forms you can see the score for each question and an explanation of why it was given.
Is a score not right? The organisation reports this to the editors with an explanation and sources, and we adjust the score.
A tool to improve together
The transparency index is a development tool. A guideline for organisations to show that they meet the standards for honest, sound, sustainable and responsible volunteering. And an incentive to meet them.
Help build the index
Since June 2024 we have been assessing all organisations step by step. You can also submit a completed assessment form yourself. You will then be given priority in the final assessment.
Editorial accountability
The editors stand for maximum transparency, but remain responsible for the final assessment. If we do not adopt a proposal from an organisation, we explain why in the result form.