If you are searching for ways to virtually assist those in need, here are some safe and socially-distanced volunteer opportunities.
Be My Eyes
Be My Eyes is a free app that connects blind and low-vision people with sighted volunteers for visual assistance through a live video call. A blind or a low-vision user may need help with anything from checking expiration dates to navigating new surroundings.
GLOBE Observer
GLOBE Observer, sponsored by NASA, is an international network of citizen scientists and scientists working together to learn more about our shared environment and changing climate. GLOBE Observer currently accepts observations of clouds, mosquito habitats, land cover, and trees.
Missing Maps
Missing Maps is an open, collaborative project in which you can help to map areas where humanitarian organizations are trying to meet the needs of vulnerable people. Many of the places where disasters occur are literally ‘missing’ from any map and first responders lack the information to make valuable decisions regarding relief efforts.
Red Cross Virtual Volunteer
In times of disaster or social isolation it can be difficult for people to leave their homes to volunteer in the community. Even while staying home, there is opportunity to support the Red Cross mission virtually. We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities in which volunteers can engage remotely. Enter your zip code and then search for “NHQ” or “virtual” in the key word search bar to find virtual/volunteer from home positions. Positions will vary based on location
Smithsonian Digital Volunteers
Smithsonian Digital Volunteers help make historical documents and biodiversity data more accessible by transcribing pages of field notes, diaries, ledgers, logbooks, manuscripts, and more from the last two centuries.
Translators without Borders
Translators without Borders is a U.S. non-profit organization that aims to close the language gaps that hinder critical humanitarian and international development efforts worldwide. Because of the COVID-19 crisis, people urgently need access to accurate information in a language and format they understand to make well-informed decisions during this pandemic.
United Nations Volunteers
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide. Online volunteering pairs organizations and volunteers together to address sustainable development challenges in several subjects, including COVID-19 response.
BookShare.org
Book Share offers thousands of books to people with reading disabilities. As an online volunteer you can either scan books to be added to the collection or edit books that have been scanned.
Distributed Proofreaders
These online volunteers turn public domain books into online books, mostly for Project Gutenberg. Many volunteers work on a book at the same time and proofread each other’s work.
NPower
As part of preparing students for a career in technology, NPower engages tech professionals to share their knowledge, experience, insight, and advice. Connect with NPower students in-person or virtually, in small or large group settings, and for short or long-term projects.
MentorNet
MenttorNet is a division of Great Minds in STEM (GMiS) and strategically matches STEM students and professionals in compatible online mentoring relationships.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
- Create MS Cards – We are looking for cards that express thank-you to our participants, volunteers, and fundraisers, and keeping in touch with people living with MS. We welcome creativity when it comes to physical or e-cards! For physical cards, contact Ashlyn Iervasi at ashlyn.iervasi@nmss.org to get the address of the staff member that will distribute them. For e-cards, www.Canva.com or www.GreetingIsland.com are both free to use!
- Create a Video – Calling all creative volunteers! Create a video cheering on cyclists or virtual walkers for the chance to featured in the virtual broadcast! You can also create a video about why you enjoy volunteering for the MS Society or why it’s important to you! Videos should last anywhere from 30 seconds up to 2 minutes.
- Phone Calls – We are looking for volunteers to make phone calls to participants and volunteers who have not registered. A script, phone list and Google Voice instructions will be sent to those who are interested in this activity.
Register here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/remotevolunteering