How Nonprofits Can Identify And Manage Virtual Volunteer Opportunities

In recent years, remote work has become a staple for many organizations, driven by digital transformation that enables flexible schedules and geographically dispersed teams. Nonprofits, often operating with limited resources, can similarly benefit from expanding virtual opportunities to include volunteers.

Before implementing a virtual volunteer program, nonprofit leaders should carefully consider strategies to ensure long-term engagement and effectiveness. Below, eight members of the Forbes Nonprofit Council share key steps to successfully identify and manage virtual volunteer opportunities.

1. Use Virtual Options as Accessibility Tools
   The shift caused by Covid-19 has transformed traditional volunteer engagement. Virtual options should be seen as tools that accommodate diverse schedules, enabling volunteers to stay connected to their passions and contribute meaningfully. Prioritizing user-friendly technology and clear communication will enhance the virtual experience. – Aaron Alejandro, Texas FFA Foundation

2. Align Volunteer Roles with Skills and Interests
   Understanding the skills and interests of potential virtual volunteers is essential. Start by surveying your community, then design roles with clear objectives and measurable impact. Structured onboarding, regular check-ins, and digital collaboration tools help keep volunteers engaged and aligned with your mission. – Michael Bellavia, HelpGood

3. Identify Roles That Translate Well to Virtual Work
   Determine mission-aligned roles that don’t require physical presence, such as virtual mentoring, content creation, data analysis, or volunteer coordination. Provide clear role descriptions, training, and feedback mechanisms to keep engagement high. Purposeful and personal connections enhance the impact and retention of virtual volunteers. – Cherian Koshy, Kindsight

4. Appoint a Staff Member to Oversee the Program
   Just as employees have assigned roles, virtual volunteers should be managed with structure. A designated staff member should oversee workloads, facilitate virtual meetings, and maintain engagement. Recognizing volunteers’ contributions and sharing their impact fosters motivation and connection. – Kimberly Lewis, Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc.

5. Survey Volunteers to Assess Interest
   Gauge interest by conducting surveys. While many volunteers are eager to contribute, they must be presented with opportunities that are meaningful, engaging, and easy to navigate. – Brandi Horton, Institute for Community Living (ICL)

6. Clearly Define Roles and Expectations
   Regardless of the setting, volunteers need well-defined roles, expectations, and performance metrics. Providing clarity from the outset maximizes both the organization’s benefit and the volunteer’s experience. Proper training—even in a virtual format—is crucial for success. – Patrick Riccards, Driving Force Institute

7. Assign a Contact Person for Oversight
   To manage virtual volunteers effectively, designate a staff member to track engagement and outcomes. Treat volunteers as integral team members by utilizing benchmarks, SMART goals, feedback mechanisms, and project management tools. Streamlining processes helps nonprofits work smarter, not harder. – Erin Davison, Scouting America

8. Recognize and Celebrate Volunteers
   Volunteers contribute valuable time, often alongside financial support. Acknowledging their impact strengthens loyalty and deepens their commitment. Clearly defining success metrics for all roles—whether virtual or in-person—helps volunteers see the tangible results of their efforts. – Karen Cochran, Philanthropy Innovators

By thoughtfully designing and managing virtual volunteer opportunities, nonprofits can expand their reach, build stronger connections, and enhance their overall impact. With the right approach, virtual volunteering can be just as fulfilling and effective as in-person engagement.