Virtual volunteering

Virtual Volunteering is an exciting approach to involving people in volunteer activity. It seeks to utilise the recent developments in information communications technology (in particular, the widespread use of the Internet and e-mail) to develop new volunteer relationships. It differs from traditional volunteering in two respects:

1. The volunteer tasks are undertaken, by and large, using the Internet and computers

2. The volunteers undertaking the tasks, for the most part, work 'off-site'

Virtual volunteering enables the participation of people who, due to mobility issues, home responsibilities or work commitments, are often excluded from volunteering because they are unable to work on-site. One of the advantages of virtual volunteering is that volunteers are able to arrange to complete the tasks at a time and place that suits them best.

What types of things can Virtual Volunteers do?
Virtual volunteering can be a great way of gaining and developing skills and gives you the chance to get experience of tackling real life problems, communicating with other people, problem-solving and team building.
Virtual volunteering can cover a wide range of tasks and activities that are of great value to voluntary and community organisations and include :

Website Design, Databases, Newsletters, Fundraising, Research and Mentoring.

So even if you are unable to work away from your home or office there are still ways that you can get involved in volunteering. Search for local volunteering opportunities here.