Most organizations ask prospective volunteers to fill out an application
and go through a screening process (and they don't accept all the
volunteers that apply). "Looking for an online opportunity can be just
like looking for a job, and it may take several applications to connect with an
actual opportunity," says Jayne Cravens, former director of the United Nations Online Volunteering
Service and founding director of the Virtual Volunteering Project at the
University of Texas at Austin. "For instance, when an organization looks
for a volunteer newsletter editor, they may get 10 applications. They may
choose the person who not only meets the requirements, but can provide the most
service hours, or who also speaks French. One person gets the volunteer post,
and nine others have to look elsewhere—just like with a paid
job."
Although virtual volunteer assignments offer flexible schedules, you'll
still need to stick to deadlines, stay in regular contact with the
organization, and answer your emails promptly. Virtual assignments require the
same level of personal commitment as on-site volunteer jobs.
For Web-based volunteer assignments, you'll need to have consistent
access to the Internet and your own email account.
Cravens says she has not heard of any scams in the world of online
volunteering, but recommends that all online volunteers use the latest
antivirus software and anti-spyware. Sally Hurme of AARP Consumer Protection
also offers the following tips:
Confirm that the group offering the assignment is legally registered as a
charitable organization. Check with your state attorney general's office or
review information available on the database of nonprofits at www.GuideStar.org.
Carefully read the privacy notice on the organization's website to
determine how any information about you will be used or disseminated.
Ask about registration fees. Some legitimate organizations do request that
volunteers contribute a small fee to offset program costs. For example, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's
Project FeederWatch charges a $15 annual participant fee to cover the
printing and shipping of project materials and other expenses.
Never give your bank account information or agree to transfer money for any
purpose.
