Skills-based and virtual volunteering

You do not have to hand out food or clean up a park to make a difference. Many nonprofits need professional help they cannot afford to buy.

What it is

Skills-based volunteering means offering expertise you use in your job, such as marketing, accounting, design, writing, IT, legal or project management. It is often organized as a defined project with an outcome and a timeline.

Roles that work well from home

• Website, design and communications work.
• Strategy, research and data analysis.
• Bookkeeping and financial review.
• Writing grants and appeals.
• Online tutoring, mentoring and language practice.

Where to find projects

Platforms such as Catchafire and Taproot Foundation match professionals with nonprofits. You can also approach organizations directly with a clear offer.

Tips for a good project

1. Agree the scope. Write down what you will deliver and by when.
2. Name one contact. Know who decides and who you report to.
3. Make sure you have access. You may need logins, files and brand materials.
4. Be realistic about time. Most volunteers have limited hours.
5. Leave something usable. Hand over documents and instructions so the work continues after you.

Benefits for you

It builds your portfolio, grows your network and gives your work a purpose. It also gives nonprofits help that can improve what they do.