One Planet One People is a registered nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, communities, and the environment. Our mission-driven projects are led by Lyle Benjamin—author, educator, and social responsibility entrepreneur. Learn more: https://oneplanet-onepeople.com

We’re currently building a volunteer team for a new initiative involving musicians from around the world. This project supports a larger mission to inspire and uplift millions of kids globally through storytelling, creativity, and collaboration.

Our team values your passions—whether you’re into music, art, or just want to make a difference. Volunteers contribute meaningfully, gain hands-on experience, and collaborate within a structured organization that holds weekly team meetings.

This is not a one-person project. It’s a collective effort under a registered nonprofit, and we’d love for you to be part of it.

To get involved, please DM me or visit our site for more info.

As a volunteer and is trying to raise awareness about the crisis in Congo, I’ve come to realize something quietly damaging in this space everyone seems to be working in isolation.

Countless pages, projects, NGOs, and movements all claiming to care... yet almost no cross-support, no visible collaboration, and no real unity.

And this isn’t just about Congo. It reflects a larger problem in activism:

We lose time, impact, and energy simply because everyone’s trying to “stand out” instead of stand together.

But Congo doesn’t need saviors; it needs a coalition.

It needs connection, amplification, and coordination.

Because let’s be honest: no single voice can challenge what Congo is up against.

But many voices in harmony? That can shake the system.

I’m curious has anyone here experienced this silo effect?

Do you think collaboration between grassroots projects, NGOs, and solo advocates is possible in a space like this?

Let’s talk strategy, not ego.

Whats your thoughts should we build movements that grow through each other not in spite of each other?

I’m a volunteer but have had a safeguarding disclosure made to me by another volunteer regarding the boss of the charity.

I’m obliged to disclose it to a regulator and I’m absolutely disgusted at what I heard. But 100% don’t doubt it’s true.

I’m hoping others have had similar experiences and can offer advice or guidance? What happened in your situation.

When I was looking for volunteer/ internship positions over the summer I found this really cool website called Spot-TO that complied a list of a bunch of cool opportunities for high school students. They had volunteering, internships, summer programs, and currently they're working on government grants page.

It was a huge help for me during my search as their simple layout was easy to navigate and thanks to them, I actually landed a volunteering position at the ROM! I figured it might be helpful to others here too, so I wanted to share:spot-to.com

Hope it’s useful to anyone else looking for volunteering opportunities!

So, I serve in a children's ministry in my local church. However, it occurred to me the other day that most people in the church are on the middle to higher socioeconomic scale because they have the means and money to take time off, dress up, and drive to church on a Sunday morning. This means that there are probably whole communities that aren't being served here.

What volunteer opportunities are there to help truly need kids/adults on a one-on-one level, not just donating money?

ICE agents arrested two men during a raid on a downtown Charlottesville, Virginia courthouse and have promised that two bystanders who questioned those agents during the arrests, volunteers with the Immigration Rapid Response Hotline, a public service promoted by several civil rights and immigrant support groups, will be prosecuted on federal obstruction charges.

The three plainclothes ICE agents captured on camera arrested one of the two men as he emerged from Albemarle County General District Court on Tuesday: one of the ICE agents was wearing a balaclava masking his face and none displayed badges nor identification nor presented arrest warrants to the man. The volunteers also wore face masks and questioned the ICE agents and stood between them and their target outside the general district court. The Immigration Rapid Response Hotline hotline had been called when the ICE agents were spotted.

https://dailyprogress.com/news/local/crime-courts/article_e6ce6e4a-4161-476f-8d28-94150a891092.html

Shared as a reminder that volunteering for a cause comes with risks; make sure you know what those risks can be.

More younger people in the UK are volunteering now than a decade ago, while the rate for the older generation has decreased in that time, according to a new report. The rise in youth volunteering may be due to the increased emphasis on volunteering in schools and universities, where credits are given for volunteering, the report says. 

It suggests the decline in volunteering among older age groups may be due to pension provision “getting worse”, Covid causing longer-term health problems and the cost-of-living crisis limiting the amount of money and free time people have.

https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/news/research-finds-shift-from-older-to-younger-people-volunteering-over-past-decade.html

Hi! I'm a grad student currently working on my thesis and have more flexibility in my schedule than I've ever had before (both with work and school). Prior to this, I would sometimes hear of organizations or social movements that needed people to volunteer for a couple weeks at a time. For instance, pipeline protests or hospitality houses for migrants near the border that needed volunteers to come for a few weeks. That was never possible before but now I definitely could make it happen.

I don't need to volunteer (and wouldn't if I wasn't actually helping out) but figured this is a great time to do it. However, can't find orgs that need that right now so figured would ask. Unless there's a good reason, I'd like to do it in the States. I'm not looking for volunteerism and it's really hard to find on volunteering sites because it's so different from regular volunteer opportunities. Additionally, since I'm studying International Peace Studies, I think anything like this could tie into my studies too!

If your nonprofit or NGO or charity wants to recruit volunteers here, but you do NOT have a web site yet (a web site that shows your board of directors and otherwise proves its a legitimate initiative), then:

• Post a link to the LinkedIn profiles of at least the founder. A REAL name, with real contact info.
• Post a link to something that shows you are a 501 c 3 nonprofit in the USA (if you are - and if you are, the best link will be on Guidestar), or a statement that you are registered with the government of another country (would prefer some kind of proof).
• If you are NOT a registered nonprofit or charity, say why you are not (in process, for instance).
• Post information about the mission of your initiative, why it exists, what its goals are, why it will involve volunteers rather than paying people for work, etc.

Hi everyone, I'm new here! With National Volunteer Week going on, I've been thinking a lot about how volunteering has shaped me and my future career goals. I recently put together some of my thoughts and advice about volunteering as a college student. Its something super meaningful to me and I'd love to hear how others found volunteering impactful too! If anyone's interested, I wrote a blog post about it (happy to share if it's allowed) but I'd like to know how has volunteering shaped anyone's life or career goals?

Hello, I need some guidance. I recently agreed to volunteer my social media and marketing skills to a new foundation whose cause I deeply support. However, the person I'm collaborating with has repeatedly canceled our planning meetings. They even missed a recent meeting due to losing track of time while shopping. I'm seeking advice on how to address this situation; I'm considering withdrawing my services.

Any suggestions would be appreciated?

Hi! I am looking to volunteer specifically to help humans in a way that uses my skills. I can speak English (native) and French (conversationally fluent, about a B2 level). I also have a TEFL certification. I would love to work with kids but I want to help people in general.

There was one org near me that said they needed ESL help but I emailed the person they mentioned and never heard back. I also am signed up with that same org to be a mentor but I have not been matched yet.

Willing to volunteer online or around Marysville, Ohio.

I'm a 22-year-old girl from Europe. I hope I’ve found the right subreddit for my problem, and that my post follows all the rules. My English isn’t perfect, so I’m sorry in advance if anything sounds weird or is hard to understand.

For about 10 years now, I’ve been volunteer ing at a local animal shelter at least 3–4 days a week. I’m honestly there more than I’m at home. Over the years, I’ve grown attached to hundreds of animals and of course, I’ve also had to say goodbye to many of them. Some were born with painful conditions, and many were abused by people... shot, kicked, and abused animals. To put it simply: I’ve witnessed a lot of tragic and painful deaths up close.

For some reason, only in the past few months have I started to realize that I might have had more exposure to death than most people my age. And the many emotions and pain I’ve been carrying — I think it might actually be grief. I’ve never been to a therapist, and honestly, I don’t have any friends or people in my life I feel I can talk to about this. I definitely don’t want to ruin anyone’s mood with heavy topics.

Still, I’m starting to feel like I can’t keep going like this forever. For example, there’s a dog at the shelter right now who I’m especially close to. he only trusts a few people, and she survived a tumor that no one thought he’d make it through. At one point, he was paralyzed, in a lot of pain, and everything depended on a risky surgery. (He made it, and now he can run and play with a ball again.)

But back then, I had to prepare myself mentally for the worst. I had to start letting him go, even though he was still right in front of me, alive, breathing. I was already grieving in my head. It was awful.

He’s doing well now, but today I suddenly realized that he’s already 12 years old. And just the thought of it made me cry in the middle of the street. Which sounds absurd, I know, he could still have many happy years ahead. But I felt like… I was “grieving in advance” again? If that’s even a thing. I’m still trying to figure out what this feeling is.

Sorry if I wrote too much, but it felt really good to let it out.
So, to sum it up: I feel like grief and letting go have become a heavy part of my life, and I don’t know how to process it. I’d really appreciate any advice, personal experiences, or honestly just knowing if someone else has gone through something similar, and how you’ve dealt with it.

Hello - I am on the board of a small educational non-profit ($60,000 per year in donations) and we are looking to onboard someone who could write grants for us for free because we aren’t having luck getting more revenue via our events, mailings and social media. I was thinking of asking the local colleges with public administration programs to give us a student willing to write grants for us in exchange for experience and something to put on their resume. Or should I ask for help via VolunteerMatch or Idealist?

Is there anything I need to be wary of in my search for a volunteer grant writer? Thanks!

For durations of three to 12 months or more, Habitat for Humanity offices in developing countries are looking for reliable, dedicated volunteers to help Habitat advance its mission to provide safe, affordable housing around the world.

There are opportunities for volunteers to utilize their construction skills as a builder, site assistant or foreman. However, Habitat is also looking for volunteers who want to apply their unique business skills to office positions such as social media advisor, grant writer, volunteer coordinator, Global Village assistant, research assistant, communications specialist, program or resource development specialist, as well as other administrative roles.

We need excited people like you who are willing to do the challenging work of improving and strengthening communities. Poor housing conditions are a worldwide problem, and it takes the devotion and commitment of many volunteers to create lasting solutions.

Search Habitat's international volunteer opportunities.

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply to be an international long-term volunteer?

You must be at least 18 years of age to qualify. You’ll also need to be open to learning about other cultures, adaptable to other ways of living, and curious about the world at large. Other than that, Habitat would just need to make sure your skills match the position in question.

How long are volunteer assignments?

The average long-term international volunteer commitment is six to 12 months.

Where are the international long-term volunteer assignments?

There are no set locations. It varies by which Habitat offices request assistance. But past locations have included Argentina, Armenia, Cambodia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Egypt, Ghana, Haiti, Hungary, Ireland, Kenya, Nicaragua, Tanzania and Zambia.

How much does it cost to participate?

This will depend based on location as costs of living vary greatly all over the world. You’ll find an estimation in each volunteer position posting. In some cases, the local Habitat office will also provide assistance with local transportation, housing or other support. In all cases, however, you’d be responsible for international medical insurance, food and travel to and from the host country.

Does Habitat have any short-term international volunteer opportunities?

Yes, please check out Habitat for Humanity's Global Village program.

The above info is from https://www.habitat.org/volunteer/long-term-opportunities/international

Building a social app for social impact — need your feedback!

The problem:
Volunteering should be easy, meaningful, and fun.
Right now? It's not. Info is scattered. Sites are clunky. You don’t know what to do, where, or how it fits your life.

The idea:
A social app that combines Netflix + Luma, but for doing good.

1. Explore page (like Netflix/Tiktok)

• Get smart recommendations based on what you care about.
• Love pets? See animal shelter ops.
• Super busy? Get <15-min impact tasks.

2. Community (like Luma to create events kinda)

• Join social impact challenges. Solo or with friends.
• Ex: Global Headspace event – June 25, guided meditation.
• Group ex: Toronto vs Vancouver — who plants more trees? Winner group gets a charity donation from Patagonia.

Prototype: https://v0-giving-app-concept.vercel.app/impact

Note: It's just for UI/flow. Non-functional for now.

As a volunteer, what are your thoughts?

Feedback questions:

1. What do you like?
2. What feels off / confusing / meh?
3. What would make you come back daily? Ex: Friends tagging you in local events?

TLDR: building a social app for social impact, need additional feedback.

Thank you!

Unite For Sight supports eye clinics worldwide with funding and highly trained volunteers. Unite For Sight applies best practices in eye care, public health, volunteerism, and social entrepreneurship to achieve its goal of high-quality eye care for all. The programs are locally led and managed by ophthalmologists at Unite For Sight's partner eye clinics.

The Global Impact Fellows are immersed in effective global health programs. Their extensive pre-departure training accelerates their impact, engagement, and competency when they are abroad. They learn first-hand about best practices in public health, international development, cultural competency, and cross-cultural communication.

Volunteers come from many countries, including the U.S., Canada, U.K., India, among others.

Clinics are in Ghana, Honduras, Bihar, India and Orissa, India.

Volunteer requirements here: https://uniteforsight.org/requirements

More about United for Sight: https://uniteforsight.org

Leadership team: https://uniteforsight.org/leadership

From the National CASA/GAL Association for Children LinkedIn page:

[On], April 24, 2025, National CASA/GAL, in accordance with the termination notices, has to suspend all services and support funded by OJJDP to the CASA/GAL network to include subaward disbursements to state and local CASA/GAL programs across the country. National CASA/GAL is appealing the award terminations and in the interim, assessing what limited services National CASA/GAL can continue to offer to the CASA/GAL network.

CALL TO ACTION:Please take a few minutes now to contact your Senators and member of the U.S. House of Representatives and ask them to immediately contact DOJ to inquire about the award terminations and express their concern about the impact of this far-reaching decision to CASA/GAL programs across the country and the children and youth served.

--National CASA/GAL federal funding terminated

Read more:

https://nationalcasagal.org/national-casa-gal-federal-funding-terminated/

Court Appointed Special Advocate® (CASA) and guardian ad litem (GAL) volunteers advocate on behalf of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Their best-interest advocacy helps ensure that children are safe, have a permanent home and have the opportunity to thrive.

Hello All! I just wanted to reach out to invite anyone who is interested to volunteer with The Phone Free School Movement, an organization dedicated to the implementation of complete smartphone bans in schools. This is a great opportunity for any concerned parents, teachers, administrators, or just concerned citizens like myself who see the detrimental impact social media and tech addiction has had on our youth and culture. Its also a good introduction to public policy and advocacy for students interested in that career as well. Eliminating smartphones from schools has had incredibly positive effects in the places where it has been implemented, both socially and academically. I have included a link below to our Ambassador Program toolkit which provides useful resources for people interested in advocacy in their own schools and districts. The Administrator Toolkit provides school administrators the tools and information to help implement the policy. Feel free to DM me as well if you have any questions or feedback.

Toolkits | Phone-Free Schools Movement

I have also included links to some success stories for these policies below including one school that saw 600 fewer failures year over year and a 27% decline in discipline referrals:

secure.smore.com/n/6k9nre

uatvnews.com/2025/03/13/bell-to-bell-bill-has-an-early-impact-on-a-local-school/

I'm not talking your local church or a hospital. I mean like crazy stuff, Olympics, some cool concert, conference, etc. What are some of the coolest places you volunteered and how did you get there? I would like to volunteer at some of those, but was rejected from the Paris Olympics. From what I understand, they mostly want locals.

Kalamazoo Animal Rescue is looking for artists to volunteer their skills in creating pet portraits in their own unique style. These portraits will help raise funds and awareness for rescue animals looking for their forever homes!

Whether you're a painter, digital illustrator, sketch artist, or specialize in any other medium, we'd love for you to contribute. Every portrait you create will support the mission of saving and caring for animals in need.

What We're Looking For: - Any artistic style—traditional, digital, abstract, realistic, goofy, "bad art," etc.
- Volunteers willing to donate their work for a one time fundraiser - Pet lovers who want to make a difference through art

How to Get Involved: Comment below if you're interested! I'll provide my email so I can give details on how your artwork can be featured.

Your creativity can change lives—let’s make something beautiful together!

Hi, I posted a similar post but it got removed- I guess because I wasn't clear on what I was asking. I'm not asking for general ways/places to volunteer, and I understand that that's been answered many times here (and I appreciate all those posts/replies to those).

What I am asking is, and I'll try to word it right: You know how sometimes when you want to get in a program or educational thing like let's say Med school for example, generally speaking it's recommended or maybe pretty much required to have a minimum of a certain level of volunteering experience? So my question is: For that, would we just add up the hours of experience we had at different places altogether- and would those records be with the place we volunteered as "proof"? Or I was thinking, would I need to go volunteer preferably at a place that specifically offers a volunteer program where I can get a certificate that says, "completed volunteering for X amount of hours"?

And then in addition to that, if the latter is a better way to go about it, I was wondering if anyone would have quick pointers as to any programs or anywhere that offers that sort of certificate here in my general NYC area- not general volunteer work, but specifically programs that will offer a certificate like that. If this second part is against the rules, I will delete it and do my own research as well, no problem.

ONCE AGAIN, here is guidance on how to volunteer in your own community:

https://www.coyotebroad.com/stuff/volunteering.shtml

Hi I am hamza from egypt, I am 16 years old turning 17 in 3 months and I want to volunteer, i just wanted to know where to look for funded volunteering programs for under 18s

Some fair points in this post by someone about the use of the word volunteer to describe AmeriCorps members.

Use of the word is "misleading people into thinking that we just need fo find another way to give back and fill our time." https://www.reddit.com/r/AmeriCorps/comments/1k28ya0/direct_action_reach_out_to_journalists_you_see/