Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Officer At Climate Awareness Advocacy and Resilience Initiative (CAARI)

Organization: Climate Awareness Advocacy and Resilience Initiative (CAARI)
Location: Damaturu, Yobe State
Position Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)
Commitment: 5–10 hours/week
Duration: 6 Months (Renewable)
Application Deadline: 10th August 2025

About CAARI

The Climate Awareness Advocacy and Resilience Initiative (CAARI) is a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to helping communities respond to the growing impacts of climate change. Our mission combines climate advocacy, public health, gender equality, peacebuilding, and community resilience.

At CAARI, we recognize that climate-related disasters often increase mental health challenges, especially in vulnerable communities. That’s why we integrate Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) into our climate programs—to promote healing, emotional well-being, and community strength.

Role Overview

We are seeking a committed and compassionate volunteer to join our team as a Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Officer. In this role, you’ll work closely with communities affected by climate-induced crises—offering emotional support, facilitating healing, and raising awareness about the mental health effects of climate change.

If you’re passionate about mental health, climate justice, and community empowerment, this is a powerful opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

Key Responsibilities

Psychosocial Support & Community Outreach

• Provide trauma-informed counseling and emotional first aid to individuals impacted by floods, droughts, displacement, and other climate-related events.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions and workshops on eco-anxiety, grief, and trauma recovery.

Capacity Building & Training

• Train CAARI staff and volunteers on basic MHPSS approaches.
• Use creative, culturally relevant methods like storytelling, art therapy, and drama to promote healing.

Climate-Mental Health Advocacy

• Advocate for mental health integration into climate adaptation policies and emergency response plans.
• Engage with schools, women’s groups, and community organizations to raise awareness of psychosocial challenges.

Research & Public Awareness

• Document real-life stories, testimonials, and case studies on the mental health impact of climate change.
• Design and support anti-stigma campaigns via local media, radio, podcasts, or community events.

Monitoring & Reporting

• Track mental health trends across project areas.
• Contribute to donor and program reports linking climate action to community well-being.

Qualifications & Skills

• Background in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, Public Health, or related fields. (Students and recent graduates are welcome.)
• Experience (paid or volunteer) in MHPSS or mental health programs is an added advantage.
• Knowledge of climate change and its psychological impacts (training will be provided).
• High emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to work with trauma-affected individuals.
• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Kanuri, Hausa, or Fulfulde is a strong asset.

Volunteer Benefits

While this is a volunteer position, selected candidates will receive:

• Free training in mental health, climate adaptation, and peacebuilding
• Hands-on experience in grassroots programming and community support
• Opportunities to network with NGOs, civil society, and local government actors
• Certificate of Service and reference letters after successful completion

How to Apply

To apply, please send the following to [email protected]:

• Your CV (maximum 2 pages)
• A one-page cover letter addressed to the HR Manager

Email Subject Line: Application – Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Officer

Note:

CAARI is an equal opportunity organization.
We strongly encourage applications from women, persons with disabilities (PWD), and residents or indigenes of Yobe State.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.