Virtual Volunteering with Idealist.org

By Hannah Kane

Check out Idealist.org for a host of volunteering opportunities. Virtual volunteering allows you to offer your time and skills to worthy organizations, without having to leave home. Keep in mind, though, virtual volunteering isn't synonymous with a short-term commitment. Volunteering from afar can be just as time-consuming, intensive, and meaningful as on-the-ground activities.

Virtual volunteer opportunities can be ongoing or one-time-only. They may involve an advanced degree or skill set, or they may be teen-friendly. The opportunities to volunteer virtually are just as diverse as on-the-ground opportunities. If it suits your lifestyle, go for it! You'll notice that Virtual is one of the options in the Country pull-down menu on Idealist's Volunteer Opportunity Advanced Search [1], at www.idealist.org/if/as/vol [1].