Thoughts on virtual volunteering

Virtual volunteerism: a new formula for success

By: Jesse O. Bolinger, M.S. 

The concept of virtual volunteerism is still a topic that is somewhat new to many nonprofit organizations.  While larger organizations, such as Volunteer Canada, are well acquainted with the concept.  There is room for growth in this area that will allow organizations to gain new, and skilled, volunteers while allowing volunteers to utilize skills that may otherwise go untapped in terms of social good.  

Small organizations that are working to develop volunteer programs must take a hard look at every aspect of the organization.  By taking this important step, it will be possible to identify each aspect that can be taken on by a volunteer.  As nonprofit professionals, we know that simple tasks, such as office related tasks, can be taken on by a volunteer.  However, these tasks can also be done by virtual volunteers.  

For example, virtual volunteers could answer e-mail, develop and update websites, update social media feeds or even answer a phone that has been forwarded to them.  In addition, it is important to acknowledge the ability for virtual volunteers to serve on committees and even the organizations board of directors through the use of technology.  

When developing virtual volunteer programs, organizations must realize that a major advantage to virtual volunteers is the ability to have work performed while the organization is closed.  With this in mind, marketing of these programs should be conducted in regions that are on different timezones.  By engaging in this practice, organizations could conceivably have work being performed and ready for staff members the next day.  This practice would bring increased productivity, decreased costs and a higher quality final product.  

It is vital that organizations of all sizes evaluate their own needs, resources and abilities when developing these programs.  As with any other program, it is important that both formative and sumative evaluation take place as necessary and appropriate.  These evaluation methods will bring about results for program improvement and future program development as well as organizational growth.  

Recruitment of virtual volunteers can be conducted in much the same way as traditional volunteers.  Websites such as volunteermatch.com, Facebook, Twitter and even the organizations own website can provide information to those interested in this type of work.  As with traditional volunteers, virtual volunteers often know other individuals interested in the same type of work and can lead the organization to other virtual volunteers or virtual volunteers to the organization.  

Jesse Bolinger is Volunteer Executive Director at TechiePaws, Inc. and a doctoral student at Capella University.