Two years ago, we shared a list of our favorite micro-volunteering opportunities. After going through a global pandemic, the variety of micro- and virtual volunteering opportunities have only increased. So this year, we want to share an updated version of the best ways to get involved on Micro-volunteering Day and going forward.
Did you know that some of the world’s most vulnerable communities aren’t mapped? This can have grave consequences in circumstances of disaster and crisis, when first responders rely on maps to carry out relief efforts. With these locations missing from open and accessible maps, the first responders are lacking crucial information. Missing Maps is an open collaborative project where you can help map these areas using satellite imagery to support relief efforts and humanitarian work.
As a Digital Volunteer for the Smithsonian, you can help expand access to the Smithsonian’s collections and participate in research projects. Smithsonian Digital Volunteers solve tasks such as transcribing historical documents, tracking changes of fouling communities, contributing content to Wikipedia and more.
DoSomething is a youth-led movement for good. Through the digital platform, members can join volunteer, social change and civil action campaigns to create an impact. Some of their campaigns include collecting unopened period products and donating them to a local homeless shelter, donating clothing to support vulnerable populations and protect the planet, and posting positive messages to boost others’ self-esteem.
You don’t have to be particularly crafty to participate in a DIY volunteer project. Points of Light offers tons of ideas for easy DIY volunteer projects that anyone can complete in their spare time. From making homemade dog treats to donate to a local shelter, to collecting and donating discarded cell phones, or sending uplifting notes to your local senior center - there’s something for everyone.
As a young individual, navigating the education system and deciding on your future career path can be a maze - and many of us have already been there. Career Village offers young individuals a platform where they can ask all their questions to accomplished professionals like you and me. As a volunteer, you’ll get notified when there’s a question you might be able to answer, to support young students on their way to a professional life.
Millions of refugees and people in need of humanitarian assistance are struggling with language barriers. Tarjimly was founded in 2017 as a response to the Syrian refugee crisis. With the free app, you can use your language skills to translate for refugees and aid workers in need and help break down language barriers.
We know that simple acts of kindness can create a great impact for individuals. With Writing Wonders you can send uplifting letters and artwork to sick children, seniors or healthcare workers to put a smile on their face.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults have been particularly affected by loneliness and isolation. Through DOROT’s Caring Calls program, you will be matched with an older adult with whom you’ll have friendly conversations over the course of 8 weeks. If you are part of the LGBTQ+ community, you can be matched with a LGBTQ+ older adult to discuss interests and experiences.
If you are interested in history, By The People from the Library of Congress might be the opportunity for you. Help transcribe and review transcriptions of handwritten and typed historical documents to improve search, access and discovery.
Bookshare supports struggling readers by giving them access to a customized reading experience, such as audio books, highlighted text, braille, large font and more. You can volunteer by scanning books that are not already in their collection or by proofreading scanned files from other volunteers.
There are so many ways to make an impact by small acts of kindness, and we hope that this list has given you some great ideas on how you can be a part of it. Micro-volunteering Day is a great occasion to find a new purposeful way of making a difference, but remember that everyday is a chance to do good!
