Author: Maha Vijayakrishnan
Pixabay
Getting tired of binging Netflix everyday in your bed? Well, I bear good news: you can volunteer online! Many organizations are looking for people to help them, which you can do staying in bed too. It also doesn’t hurt that you can include this in your resume or transcripts. Each opportunity provides special skillsets and experiences that are valuable to have!😊 Click on the titles to explore each organization's web page. Here are some cool opportunities to check out:
Phxere
Assist a person with blind or low vision through the Be My Eyes app. You can help people lead more independent lives by helping them get through their day. All it takes is an app to connect through to a multitude of people. You can also perform certain activities, such as translating the app into different languages, to reach a wider audience. If you like 1-on-1 interactions and meeting people, this task is perfect for you.
FreeStockPhoto.Biz
If you don’t want to work directly with people and would rather work behind the scenes in helping nonprofits, you can do so through Shelter the World. By volunteering, you will acquire many valuable assets which will benefit you later in life. Website design, commercial printing, and SEO work are just only a few of the many skills you can gain! You can select what you want to do and schedule your volunteer hours. It’s perfect for anyone with a busy schedule!
Wikipedia
The Trevor Project provides counseling and services for LGBTG+ young people under 25. You may volunteer as a crisis counselor by messaging or calling on the phone. However, there is an 18-year age requirement and you must go through a 40-hour course. By joining the Trevor Project, you get perks such as access to events, networks, and many invaluable skills from your training. For any further questions, email Volunteer@TheTrevorProject.org or check out the website!
4. 7 Cups
Flickr
Sign up to be a volunteer listener to those looking for someone to talk to. Thousands of volunteers come together to make one of the biggest e-counseling platforms. It is anonymous and free! To register, you must complete an active responding course and create a profile. After that, you are set to go! If you want to be more involved, you can become an online therapist. However, therapists must be at least 18 years old.
5. UpChieve
WokandaPix
You will work with low-income high school students that need help with schoolwork. All that's needed is a computer, laptop, or a tablet to teach. You do not need a video camera nor a mic to teach students. This platform is suitable for those who are busy too. In fact, the average volunteer contributes just 30 minutes per week! You will get a text asking your availability to tutor, and that will give you an opportunity to teach a student. You can be more involved by becoming a volunteer staff member, associate board member, or an advisory council member too.
StockSnap
If you love working with children with special needs, you can write letters and notes to them through SpreadtheLove's platform. A note can be simple as a small postcard or a small letter! Regardless, the recipients will be happy to receive inspiring messages. This organization is dedicated to giving children uplifting statements and providing awareness about the spectrum. Check out their website to find more information about their goals and objectives, as well as how you can join their efforts.
7. Empow3r
AkshayaPatra
In some Indian states, not a lot of girls have an access to education because they are viewed as a burden to their family. Some even get abandoned and are left to roam the streets, asking tourists for cash. Empow3r wants to affect their lives through education so they can aspire towards their dreams. All donations go towards Commit2Change. To volunteer or be an affiliate, all you have to do is fill out a form, be over 13, and have an Instagram. Every person can make a profound difference towards their cause.
NataliePrice
Are you passionate about the sciences and want to help others with your knowledge? The Helyx Initiative invites those who wish to tutor in science topics such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Computer Science. You can also tutor kids who need help with Algebra or MathCounts. Over 1,000 tutors are registered and 30,000 students seek help on this platform. To register as a tutor, you can visit their site and fill out their form.
Phxere
Still can’t find an opportunity you are interested in? Check out Volunteer Match! They have many volunteer opportunities you can browse through and you can even put filters on according to your preferences. You may also choose whether you want to do volunteering in-person or online too! You can specify which cause you want to support ranging from human rights to sports and recreation.
10. Points of Light
Hanscom
Just like Volunteer Match, this platform also links you to many volunteer opportunities based on your preferences. You can join their global network which connects to over 250 cities across 37 countries. If you found a nonprofit organization and need volunteers, Points of Light can connect you to a plethora of volunteers too. There are no age requirements to access Points of Light, and many of the opportunities accept people of any age.
Image Sources:
https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1444481
https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1451437
http://www.freestockphotos.biz/stockphoto/17341
https://www.hanscom.af.mil/News/Photos/igphoto/2000047320
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:2011_The_Trevor_Project_Logo.svg