How to Find Legitimate Volunteering Opportunities Online
The internet is full of volunteering opportunities, but not all of them are genuine or beneficial. Some are scams, while others may not provide meaningful experiences. Here is how to find legitimate and valuable volunteering opportunities online:
1️⃣ Identify Your Goals
Before searching, ask yourself:
✅ Do I want to gain work experience or give back to a cause?
✅ What skills do I want to develop?
✅ Do I prefer local or remote opportunities?
Knowing what you want helps you narrow down opportunities that align with your career and personal interests.
2️⃣ Use Trusted Volunteering Websites
Look for established platforms that connect volunteers with reputable organizations. Some well-known ones include:
🔹 UN Volunteers – (https://www.onlinevolunteering.org) for global and remote volunteering
🔹 Idealist – (https://www.idealist.org/) for local and international opportunities
🔹 VolunteerMatch – (https://www.volunteermatch.org/) for U.S.-based roles
🔹 Go Overseas – (https://www.gooverseas.com/) for international volunteering
🔹 Do-It.org – (https://do-it.org/) for UK-based opportunities
🔹 Catchafire – (https://www.catchafire.org/) for skills-based volunteering
3️⃣ Research the Organization
Before committing, verify that the organization is legitimate by:
✅ Checking their official website and social media presence
✅ Reading reviews and testimonials from past volunteers
✅ Looking them up on charity watchdog sites like Charity Navigator (https://www.charitynavigator.org/)
✅ Ensuring they have clear volunteer roles, impact reports, and contact details
4️⃣ Watch Out for Red Flags
🚩They ask for a large upfront payment– Some programs require fees (e.g., international volunteering), but be cautious if costs are unclear or excessive.
🚩 They promise unrealistic benefits – No legitimate volunteer role will guarantee job placements, visas, or financial returns.
🚩 Lack of transparency – If an organization avoids answering questions or has no online presence, proceed with caution.
5️⃣ Consider Virtual Volunteering
If you want to volunteer remotely, look for digital opportunities on:
🔹 UN Online Volunteering– (https://www.onlinevolunteering.org/)
🔹 Zooniverse – (https://www.zooniverse.org/) for citizen science projects
🔹 Translators Without Borders – (https://translatorswithoutborders.org/) for translation work
🔹 Crisis Text Line – (https://www.crisistextline.org/) for mental health support
6️⃣ Connect with Local Organizations
Many nonprofits don’t advertise online. Reach out to:
🔹 Local NGOs, schools, hospitals, and community centres
🔹 University career services or alumni networks
🔹 Religious or faith-based groups
7️⃣ Be Clear on Commitments
Before committing, clarify:
✅ The role’s expectations (hours, tasks, duration)
✅ Whether training or supervision is provided
✅ If there are costs involved (travel, accommodation, etc.)
Final Thought
Legit volunteering opportunities don’t just help the organization—they help you grow too. Take your time, do your research, and choose wisely!
🔍 Have you found a great volunteering role online? Share your experience in the comments!
