Finding Your First Volunteer Assignment

 

Why volunteer? We live in a time of increased global demand for humanitarian action. As the demand grows, so does the complexity of the need. NGOs and other organizations may be strained to find resources with the talent and expertise to navigate the technical and logistical challenges of delivering impactful solutions. “Key to making operations work better is getting the right people on the ground with the right skills and experience, at all levels ” (Valerie Amos, May 13, 2011, The Guardian). The knowledge and skills developed as project management professionals can help transform ideas to outcomes. 

You have an opportunity to integrate your personal beliefs and professional experiences and drive towards a positive impact in our world. From the construction of a green-space in a high-risk community, to establishing volunteer shelters in a natural disaster, to planning a major fundraising initiative for a healthcare NGO, the capacity to execute is invaluable. 

So, how do you find an organization whose mission aligns with your personal values?

• Start local. Community postings and regional events are easily accessible resources for finding organizations to support right in your backyard. 

• Explore your personal network.  Let your friends, family, and neighbors know that you are looking for causes to support. Join in their activities and explore if there are ways to contribute on a higher level.

• Connect with your alma mater. Many schools and universities are active members of their local community as well as major contributors to international communities. Often, the alumni network is vast and well connected to humanitarian initiatives around the world.

• Ask your employer. Let your employer know that you are looking for ways to leverage your skills outside of the office. Inquire if there are any causes that your organization supports and ask if there is a way you can get involved.

• Search the internet. A number of organizations are dedicated to connecting individuals to NGOs, and some even specialize in skill-based volunteer assignments. Here are a few to start exploring:
  • Project Managers Without Borders 
  • VolunteerMatch 
  • Idealist 
  • Worldwide NGO Directory

“So many organizations need help! Why should I make this commitment?” At this point, you may find the number of organizations where you can get involved to be overwhelming, and you may wonder why you should continue to pursue your first assignment. To put it simply: “To welcome the opportunity of contributing to the world's work ...because of the joy of service thereby bestowed and the talent of leadership multiplied” (Alpha Gamma Delta, The Purpose). Beyond making you feel good about giving back, volunteering can help you refine your leadership skills as you seek ways to overcome unique logistical and cultural challenges in your assignment. Through volunteer work, you can acquire skills not available in your current professional role. It's an impactful way to learn how to drive innovation, motivate accountability, and mobilize teams through unusual and enterprising efforts. 

Get invigorated by your work! Use your knowledge and passion for project management to make meaningful change to the way we approach the world’s work.