Virtual Volunteering
Virtual Volunteering is a growing trend in the service field that is expanding the limits of volunteer possibilities. Through online volunteer opportunities, individuals who do not have the time or resources to commit to onsite assignments are still able to make a significant difference in the lives of others. Virtual volunteering can include assignments such as:
- Conducting research on an assigned topic
- Creating an on-line community
- Translating websites
- Editing/Drafting online content
- Designing an agency’s newsletter or brochure
- Online mentorship and tutoring to individuals of all ages and interests
The following are links to more information about virtual volunteering and to organizations that are recruiting virtual volunteers:
Virtual Volunteering: Current Status and Future Prospects
A study complied by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy that looks at how Canadians are participating in virtual volunteer opportunities.
Virtual Volunteering in Canada
An information sheet, compiled by the Canadian Centre for Philanthropy in support of the International Year of Volunteers provides statistics on virtual volunteering in Canada.
Is Virtual Volunteering for you?
To be sure you should review this list of essential questions to ask yourself before you make the commitment.
Ready to start?
Here are some sites to consider:
Altruvest
Altruvest runs numerous programs to strengthen charities, communities and leaders. Their BoardMatch Fundamentals Canada Program (BMFP) is a free internet based eLearning matching program. THE BMFP trains volunteers for specific responsibilities and on fundamental roles of being on a charitable board, focusing on governance issues in the charitable sector. They hope to match qualified candidates to registered charities through their online postings as well as recruitment sessions.
United Nations Online Volunteering
Connects development organizations and volunteers over the Internet and supports their effective online collaboration.
ServiceLeader
ServiceLeader provides a wealth of information on all aspects of volunteering. Explore the Virtual Volunteer Guidebook, and check out their extensive database of international volunteer opportunities.
Charity Focus
CharityFocus is an all volunteer run nonprofit organization that endeavors to leverage technology for inspiring greater volunteerism and providing meaningful volunteer opportunities for all who want them -- no matter what their skills, how much time they have to give, where they are located, and what their interests.
The Global Neighbor Network
A website dedicated to fostering the involvement of virtual volunteers ('neighbours') to work with communities in developing countries, Virtual 'Villages', who present their issues and ask for assistance in a variety of different projects.
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