Guest Contributor: Indiana Lee

When disaster strikes, communities often find themselves vulnerable and in need of support. This is where the compassionate efforts of volunteers come into play. Volunteering in disaster-affected areas can provide much-needed relief and support, offering hope and assistance to those facing unprecedented challenges.

This is the time of year when volunteer coordinators are hoping for a miracle. End-of-year budgets are tight, staff may be burnt out –all while community needs mount during the holidays.  

Volunteerism provides nonprofits with a readily available and enthusiastic workforce to help execute projects, expand reach, and address community needs. With the help of volunteers, organizations can reallocate operational costs to other initiatives, provide extra hands for various projects, and tap into a variety of skills and expertise that can be used to further the organization’s mission. Not to mention, most volunteers (76%, according to Double the Donation’s fundraising statistics) also contribute to nonprofits as donors. 

Your school is fully committed to nurturing student learning and growth, but teachers and staff can’t do it all alone.

Imagine a volunteer community where every person feels valued and empowered to make a difference. Creating a vibrant and engaged community is easier than you might think! It starts with simple, fun activities that show your volunteers they matter to your nonprofit. 

Did you know that about one-third of the nonprofit workforce comprises unpaid volunteers? These supporters assist with everything from administrative tasks to fundraising events to essential everyday chores, freeing up time for your staff.

On a repurposed dairy farm in Ridgebury, Connecticut, magic happens every day. This is where Ridgebury Riders, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children and individuals with special needs, turns therapy into joy through hippotherapy—occupational, speech, or physical therapy conducted on horseback.

“Horses are incredible partners in this work,” shares Haley Levesque, Program Coordinator. “Magical moments happen daily at the farm.”

Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to your community, gain new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re looking to make a difference in someone’s life or simply want to explore new interests, there are countless options available. Here are 19 ways to find the volunteer opportunity that resonates with you.

Volunteers are the backbone of your nonprofit—they’re critical to your success in fundraising and service delivery. Throughout their time supporting your organization, volunteers will learn a lot about your mission and inner workings, which will likely lead to them forming their own opinions about your image in the community.

Guest Contributor: Indiana Lee