- Make a list of the causes you’re most passionate about.
- What kind of impact do you hope to make? Local? National?
- How much time do you want to dedicate to an organization? Joining a Board of Directors may require 5-10 hours per week or more. Knowing how much time you want to put in will help you to find an organization with the right opportunity for you.
- Is the organization financially health? Check out Charities Review Council or Guidestar.org to learn more about the financial health of specific nonprofits.
- Finally, go to VolunteerMatch.com to search for volunteer opportunities and start communication with your potential organizations.
More than anything, take your time and examine the opportunities for their fit with you. Make sure your goals align with those of the organization, and take your time getting to know an organization before you jump in head first.
About the Author: Marcy Twete
Marcy Twete is the Founder and CEO of Career Girl Network and the author of the book “You Know Everybody! A Career Girl’s Guide to Building a Network That Works.” At Career Girl Network, Marcy provides women with information, resources, and networking to empower them in their careers and to advance the work of women in business as a whole. Prior to launching Career Girl Network, Marcy worked in numerous nonprofit organizations and as a consultant in the field of nonprofit fundraising, marketing, and community relations. Marcy is a graduate of the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minnesota, and a native of rural North Dakota. She is the Vice Chair of the Chicago Board of Directors for Step Up Women’s Network in Chicago and a member of the Advisory Board for Girls on the Run Twin Cities, and is dedicated to advancing the work of organizations that move the needle for women and girls worldwide.
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