Virtual Volunteer Opportunities – Tools to Help in an Online World

Virtual volunteer opportunities are able to be done remotely, typically from a volunteer’s computer or phone. These opportunities are often offered by nonprofits that need help with tasks that can be done online or through other virtual means. This could be anything from social media post planning to web redesign to desk research for grant opportunities…there are a ton of ways to engage volunteers virtually!

Building virtual opportunities increases accessibility, flexibility, scalability, and impact. Increasing accessibility means you can reach a wider pool of potential volunteers who may be unable to volunteer physically due to location, transportation, or other limitations. Having more flexibility creates opportunities for volunteers who may not be able to get involved during your normal scheduled events. Virtual volunteer opportunities can also help you save money on expenses like transportation, meals, and supplies that may be required for in-person volunteering. 

Some examples of virtual volunteer opportunities might include the following:

• Helping manage your nonprofit’s social media accounts, creating and scheduling posts, responding to messages and comments, and monitoring analytics.
• You might need help with writing and editing tasks, such as creating blog posts, writing grant proposals, or editing website content.
• Volunteers fluent in multiple languages can help translate materials like website content, brochures, or other documents.
• Get help with online research tasks, such as finding potential donors, researching funding opportunities, or gathering data on a particular topic.
• Volunteers can provide virtual tutoring or mentoring services to students or individuals in need.
• You could also get help with graphic design tasks, such as creating flyers, logos, or other promotional materials.
• Volunteers with website skills can help you with website design and development.

Working with virtual volunteers can be a great way for you to expand your reach and impact, but it requires careful planning and consideration.

Here are some things you should consider when working with virtual volunteers:

• Communication is key when working with virtual volunteers. Establish clear communication channels and ensure that volunteers understand what is expected of them.
• Have the necessary tech in place to support virtual volunteers. This includes tools for video conferencing, file sharing, and collaboration.
• Provide training and support to virtual volunteers to ensure they can carry out their tasks effectively.
• Have a system in place for managing virtual volunteers’ tasks and tracking their progress. This can be done through a project management tool or a spreadsheet.
  • Want to track their hours? POINT has a brand new feature… Check-In Stations! Schedule a demo today to learn more.
• Ensure that your virtual volunteers feel valued and appreciated. This can be done through regular communication, recognition events, and other forms of appreciation.
• Think about how you can create a diverse and inclusive virtual volunteer program. This can be done through outreach to diverse communities and providing accommodations for volunteers with disabilities.

Several tools can be helpful when working with virtual volunteers:

Volunteer Management Software

Volunteer management software like POINT can help nonprofits manage virtual volunteer programs, track volunteer hours, and communicate with volunteers.

Communication Tools

Communication is key when working with virtual volunteers. You can use tools like email, instant messaging platforms, and video conferencing software like Zoom or Google Meets to stay in touch with volunteers and ensure they have the support they need. Check out Slack; they have discounts for nonprofits!

Project Management Tools

Project management tools like Trello, Asana, or Basecamp can help you keep track of virtual volunteer tasks, deadlines, and progress.

File-Sharing Tools

Use file-sharing tools like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive to share documents and files with virtual volunteers.

Online Training Platforms

You can use online training platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Skillshare to provide virtual volunteers with the training and skills they need to complete their tasks. We looooove NonprofitReady for freeee training!

Survey and Feedback Tools

Tools like SurveyMonkey or Google Forms are great for gathering feedback from virtual volunteers to improve virtual volunteer programs.

Begin building your nonprofit’s virtual volunteer opportunities today!

Virtual volunteer opportunities are a great way to engage volunteers remotely, increase accessibility and flexibility, save on expenses, and expand your reach and impact. However, working with virtual volunteers requires careful planning, communication, and the use of effective tools and resources. Make sure to consider virtual volunteers’ unique needs and skills, establish clear communication channels, and provide training and support to ensure volunteers can carry out their tasks effectively. With the right tools and strategies in place, virtual volunteer programs can be a great way for you to achieve your mission and make a meaningful difference in your communities.

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Are you curious how POINT can level up your volunteer program? Book a free, live demo with our team!