Job Description & Information for a Technology Volunteer
- In addition to performing technology tasks, volunteers will also be expected to contribute to general office administration.computer mouse image by Chiara Leonardi from Fotolia.com
The general description of the work for a technology volunteer varies widely based on the particular skills and interests of the individual. The needs of the organization are also an important consideration—significant expertise in social media won’t be helpful at a nonprofit that is not implementing those platforms.
In addition, technology volunteer candidates should be aware that they may be called upon to fulfill other volunteer duties outside their area of interest. Anyone joining the service community will eventually answer telephones, make copies and stuff envelopes. - Providing training to staff reaps benefits beyond the time given to the organization.computer image by Kit Wai Chan from Fotolia.com
Without the help of volunteers, nonprofits often must eliminate training opportunities due to the cost involved. Experts with significant knowledge about technical software and processes can volunteer to train staff and other volunteers to use these systems. Training efforts must be ongoing to meet the demands of new technologies. Although everyone at an organization may be comfortable using word processing and basic spreadsheet software, emerging technologies like social media often present difficulty to established employees. These training activities rely on the volunteer’s technical expertise, patience and creativity. - Volunteers with knowledge of a variety of hardware accessories can help organizations save significantly on contract IT services.computer icon image by Kit Wai Chan from Fotolia.com
Most corporate businesses employ specialists who oversee technical hardware issues. From setting up new computers to addressing printer problems, hard drive failures and general hardware maintenance, technology volunteers can find a number of opportunities to support the nonprofit of their choice.
Given the relative lack of funding for nonprofits and charities, it is typical for a technology volunteer to work with machines and components that are outdated. Strong knowledge of an organization’s hardware history and capabilities for upgrading is necessary. In addition, technology volunteers may have to deal with frustrated staff members who experience hardware problems but don’t have the resources required to fix problems. Creative problem-solving skills are important for technology volunteers focusing on hardware. - Technology volunteers with data management experience are well-suited for membership organizations.laptop with database record on 15.4" wide screen image by .shock from Fotolia.com
Technology volunteers with particular expertise in database technologies are essential to assisting organizations in gathering and using data. Particularly for nonprofits and charities that rely on fundraising initiatives to support ongoing programming, managing data is critical. A technology volunteer can help develop relational databases that contain data on donor history as well as contact information required to continue appeals to those donors. Membership organizations also face challenges in managing data related to their members. From newsletter preferences to dues payments, complex databases help organizations know their members. Volunteers who are also members of organizations will have a unique perspective on the kind of data that should be gathered and stored. - Implementing online technologies is a popular choice for technology volunteers.adress bar image by Wiktor Osiecki from Fotolia.com
One of the most popular technology volunteer areas is Internet and online technologies. Developing websites and content, managing social media outreach and creating community engagement online are all key duties for technology volunteers. These activities can often be completed virtually, which is an attractive option for volunteers who have expertise to share but who aren’t available during regular business hours. Volunteers can work with organization leaders to develop strategic plans and then implement plans on their own.
