The ASPIRE Program is a unique opportunity for individuals who seek to transform their passion for relief and development work into a career with Catholic Relief Services. Through this structured field-based learning program, ASPIRE participants build skills in key areas of programming and operations while working alongside experienced staff and supporting critical programs. ASPIRE participants benefit from strong supervision, mentoring and regional networking as they prepare for positions of greater responsibility with CRS.
Unique Program Offerings
Learning & Professional Development
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Practical training: Through hands-on work and training, participants will gain experience and hone their skills in the following core areas: project management, monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning, project design and proposal development, partnership and capacity strengthening, communications and operations.
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Strong supervision: Each participant will be paired with an experienced supervisor who will coordinate their work activities, provide timely feedback and regular guidance.
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Mentorship: Each participant will meet regularly with a mentor who will engage them in meaningful discussions around professional development, provide guidance and career coaching.
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Customized professional experience: In addition to the core training, participants will build their skills in a specific area related to their professional development goals, and strategically position themselves for onward positions with CRS.
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Regional networking: Participants will be part of the regional community of practice to share successes, challenges, and lessons learned from their work.
Meaningful Work
Make a Difference
Together with experienced CRS staff and partners, ASPIRE participants will make great strides to end poverty and promote peace and self-reliance in countries around the world. While supporting CRS’ critical work in programming and operations, they will contribute to strategic and sustainable development projects in various sectors (such as health, agriculture, education, disaster risk reduction and emergency response, peacebuilding) and gain experience in the core operational areas (such as human resources, supply chain, finance) that make this programming possible.
ASPIRE participants will learn how CRS strengthens local governments’ and organizations’ ability to address the challenges in their communities and countries. As part of their comprehensive practical training, ASPIRE participants will gain hands-on experience in project design, management and operations. Illustrative activities include:
- Participating in project design workshops
- Supporting real-time project assessments and data collection
- Developing and implementing monitoring and accountability frameworks
- Writing reports and project proposals
- Preparing communication materials
- Organizing learning events
- Supporting operations (Human Resources, Finance, Security)
Learn more about our holistic approach and programming areas.
Participating Countries
East Africa and Asia
The ASPIRE Program is currently offered in some of the countries where CRS serves in East Africa and Asia. Follow the links below to learn about CRS’ history and current work in each location. For emerging talent in West Africa, CRS offers the Junior Professionals Program.
Eligibility Requirements
Candidate Profile
We seek diverse and qualified candidates and welcome people of all faiths and secular traditions who share our values and our commitment to serving those in need.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in related field (e.g. International Development, Agriculture, Health, Business, Communications, Public Administration, Finance, Human Resources, Supply Chain)
- Strong speaking and writing skills in English
- National of a participating country
- Willingness to travel (up to 10-15% of the time)
- Ability to work respectfully and professionally in a multi-cultural environment
Preferred Qualifications:
- Six months of relevant experience (may include internships, volunteer, or paid work experience)
- Knowledge of local languages (see FAQ for details)
- Women and persons living with disabilities are encouraged to apply
- Graduate Degree (Master's level) preferred for applicants to ASPIRE program in Kenya and Uganda
Application & Selection
Application Process
All applicants to the ASPIRE Program must apply online, following the three simple steps outlined below. Before completing the online application, we encourage candidates to review the eligibility requirements, and our FAQs for guidance on the motivation letter and online application.
Prepare your motivation letter
Prepare your CV or resume
Apply online
Apply
We will welcome applications for the next ASPIRE East Africa class in Spring 2023. Please revisit our webpage at that time to apply.
Please continue to monitor our webpage for updates on the 2023 ASPIRE program in Asia.
Selection Process & Timing
We are reviewing applications received for the 2022 ASPIRE East Africa program. Strong candidates will be contacted in September for an in-person interview. We will extend offers to the finalists in October, after conducting background and reference checks. The 2022 ASPIRE East Africa Program will begin in November 2022.
Due to the high volume of applications and rolling basis of the review, candidates will only be contacted if and when they advance to the next stage of the selection process.
Engage With Us
Let's Talk
We encourage you to join us for a webinar on the ASPIRE Program. Our webinars are an opportunity for you to informally exchange with our team—learn more about CRS and the ASPIRE Program, ask your questions, etc. We offer webinars on the dates and times listed below. Choose a session that works for you and join by simply clicking on this link or calling +1 443-290-6516, conference ID: 425725839#
Information Sessions
Wednesday, June 15, 2022
4:00pm – 5:00pm EAT
Thursday, June 30, 2022
3:00pm – 4:00pm EAT
Friday, July 15, 2022
11:00am - 12:00pm EAT
Tuesday, July 27, 2022
10:00am - 11:00am EAT
Wednesday, August 10, 2022
3:00pm - 4:00pm EAT
Monday, August 22, 2022
11:00am - 12:00pm EAT
All times are noted in Eastern Africa Time (UTC +3).
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
We are glad you are interested in learning more about the ASPIRE Program. In our FAQs, we strive to answer questions you may have around the application and selection process, career opportunities, and more. For additional information, please join an information session or contact us via email.
ASPIRE in East Africa: [email protected]
ASPIRE in Asia: [email protected]
More Opportunities
CAREERS CRS staff, alongside our partners and the people we serve, work daily to bring our mission and guiding principles to life. JUNIOR PROFESSIONALS The Junior Professionals Program is a 12-month opportunity for women in West Africa to build their skills and launch a career in the relief and development sector. FELLOWSHIPS Designed to prepare Fellows for success in a range on onward positions with CRS by providing foundational training.
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
CRS is proud to be an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Selection and hiring decisions are made without regard to sex, gender identity, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, veteran status or any other protected area.
We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, due to a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email [email protected].
