Use talent, do good: How to use competencies sensibly for your organization

Skill-based volunteering is trendy — and for good reason! It combines the expertise of volunteers with the needs of non-profit organizations and thus creates sustainable added value for everyone involved. In this post, we'll show you exactly what's behind it, why it's worthwhile and how to set up a successful project as an NPO.

What is skill-based volunteering?

In contrast to traditional volunteer work, which often requires helping hands for short or long-term assignments, volunteers contribute to Skill-based volunteering target their professional or professional skills. Whether it is an IT specialist, marketing professional or HR expert or expert — their skills are used exactly where your organization needs support.

Still not a proper idea? Here are a few examples:

• A designer creates new flyers for your next fundraising campaign.
• A project manager optimizes your internal processes.
• An IT specialist will help you digitize your database.

Why does skill-based volunteering make sense — for all parties?

For nonprofits:

• You benefit from expertise that you might otherwise lack.
• You save resources because you don't have to hire external services.
• The projects often have long-term effects — for example through optimised work processes or better public relations.

For volunteers:

• They use their skills in a meaningful way and experience that their knowledge brings real added value.
• They get to know the world of nonprofits and broaden their horizons.
• They can strengthen soft skills such as teamwork and communication.

For companies (corporate volunteering):

• Skill-based volunteering promotes employee retention and purpose-driven engagement.
• It strengthens the company's reputation through social commitment.
• Employees return to the company with new impulses.

As an NPO, what should I pay attention to when creating a project?

1. Define specific needs:

Consider where you need specialist support. Is there a bottleneck in IT, communications, or strategy? The more specific you are, the more appropriate the volunteers will get in touch.

2. Formulate clear goals:

What should be achieved at the end of the project? For example: “New website is live” or “marketing concept is ready.” That way, everyone involved knows what they're working towards.

3. Set realistic time frames:

Skill-based projects usually last longer than a single day of action. Clarify together how much time volunteers can invest.

4. Name a contact person:

Who accompanies the volunteers? Clear communication and feedback in between are important for success.

How does the whole thing become a success?

• Good preparation: The clearer the briefing, the smoother the collaboration.
• Openness and appreciation: Professional volunteers bring valuable know-how. Their time and dedication should be appreciated.
• Transparent communication: Updates, interim goals, and feedback sessions help you stay on track.
• Think long-term partnership: Perhaps there will be further projects or regular collaborations. Anyone who is impressed once will be happy to come back!

conclusion

Skill-based volunteering is a real win-win situation. With good planning and open collaboration, as an NPO, you can use expertise specifically for your mission — and volunteers experience how their know-how makes the world a better place.

Do you want to know more about this? Get in touch with us — we'll be happy to advise you on suitable projects and find you volunteers with the right skills! 💥

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