We are always talking about how volunteering is great for the community but it’s also great for your resume – and that goes for all sorts of fields and expertise. In this week’s blog, we’re talking specifically to you tech savvy folks. We know first hand that many nonprofit agencies may not have the budget for a full time web developer, and their websites may be out of date, in need of updates, or in need of more security and backups.
Whether your agency needs a full web developer or even a part time web assistant, there are tons of potential roles for web developers in a volunteer setting. Here are just a few ways you may be able to help out:
Website management: Small or large, websites are an integral part of nonprofit agencies. Given enough experience with web development you could easily find yourself managing the website on your own - in a volunteer role! Even where agencies employ a full time web developer or web team, having an extra set of hands to monitor the website will free up the full time employees for various other responsibilities.
Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Developing landing pages: Nonprofit agencies frequently use landing pages for online media campaigns; essentially, personalized website pages designed for people to land on in order to register for an event or easily provide a donation. Landing pages often need development, and as a web developer, you’ll have the perfect skill set for it.
Plugin modification: Plugins are frequently used to provide specific functions for websites such as calendars or donation tabs. Plugins often need to be customized both for specific purposes or to match the design and branding of the agency, so this is a great opportunity.
Find out what's happening in Darienwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Content Management System (or CMS) Migration: If your agency is considering migrating from an older, out of date website to a content management system like WordPress or Drupal, this can be a lengthy process that involves a lot of work depending on the amount of content on the original site. Depending on the volunteer role you apply for and when you happen to join the agency this may be a role for you.
Security: Websites are prone to hacking and malicious intrusions, especially when dealing with money. If your agency’s website accepts donations online (either directly or via a third party such as PayPal) consider asking about the security standards on the agency’s website. Offer to do an audit and patch any vulnerabilities you’ll discover. You’ll bolster your own experience and the agency will be thrilled!
Web developers can have a myriad of opportunities available to them at any agency. See how you can put your web skills to work locally at Volunteersquare.com, where you can search for whatever web specialization you have! Remember – even if a nonprofit doesn’t have a specific posting for a web developer, give them a call and talk to them. You may be surprised at how quickly they snap you up!
