Volunteering & the Digital World: Extending the Power of Volunteering through New Technologies

Introduction

As technology evolves it is being harnessed to give greater access to volunteer involvement and enhance how volunteers carry out their roles. Going to the computer or phone to find out how to connect to volunteering opportunities is the norm, virtual volunteering is a growing trend. Social media creates an instant global sharing of who volunteers are and what they are doing.

Summary

This paper discusses the popularity of incorporating volunteering with technology and how new technologies such as A.I. will bring further change and challenge as to how these new digital opportunities can also support and develop volunteering. 2020. It is free to download but asks for name, organisation and email. Available in English.

Benefits for Volunteer Organisations

The document offers several benefits for volunteer organisations:

• New technologies can revolutionise volunteer work processes and enable new forms of participation.

• Case studies from South Africa, Germany, and healthcare settings provide diverse examples of technology in action.

• Insights into artificial intelligence and decentralised engagement help organisations stay ahead of the curve.

Application for Volunteer Management Practitioners

Volunteer management practitioners can apply the resource by:

• Prioritising digital education and integrating new technologies into volunteer programmes.

• Tackling issues like data protection, online threats, and the digital divide to ensure volunteer safety and inclusivity.

• Implementing mapping, geotagging, and interactive technologies to enhance volunteer engagement and effectiveness.

By leveraging the insights and recommendations in this document, volunteer organisations and practitioners can enhance their operations and better support their volunteers in a digital world.