How to find a Group Volunteer Project

 

United Way of King County is a proud supporter of and hub for volunteerism in our community. We're excited that you are joining us!

Looking for a group project?

Volunteering together can be a great way to connect and build relationships. As you think about what this could look like for your team (or family, friend group, etc.), consider the following:

  • Be flexible – Your team might be really excited about working with kids for an afternoon, but most youth-serving organizations are looking for longer-term commitment in their volunteer roles. Look at what organizations have identified as their volunteer needs to see if you’ll be a good fit.
  • Consider your budget – while the gift of time is valuable, keep in mind that group projects require supplies and staff time to coordinate, i.e. there’s a cost to hosting your group! Do you have any team budget that could go towards volunteer projects? Budget may also open up possibilities for projects beyond what an organization promotes, so share with them if you have an amount you can contribute.
  • Plan in advance – Begin reaching out to organizations at least a month before you hope to volunteer. And if you can try to avoid locking down a date internally before you connect with a nonprofit, or at least have a few options so that you aren’t shutting the door on any cool projects or organizations that can’t accommodate one specific date.
  • Keep up your end of the bargain – Did you ask for a project for 20 people? Stay on top of recruitment to make sure your group is the expected size. Share the list of names in advance of the project so the organization knows who to expect. If there’s a change and you need to cancel or send fewer people, let the organization know ASAP.
  • Be ready to learn and reflect – ask the organization if there are any materials you should review ahead of time. Make time for a discussion before or debrief after.

 

Ready to start looking?

The United Way of King County website is a great resource for finding volunteer opportunities. Just follow these steps: 

  • Use filters to narrow down the options
    • Groups - search for projects that are open to volunteer groups (rather than only individuals)
    • Distance/virtual - the distance filter allows you to search for a project in/near a specific zip code, while the virtual filter is helpful for finding projects that can be done remotely. 
  • Click “respond as group” to start the conversation – and know that it may take a day or two to hear back from the organization. Reach out to us if you don’t hear anything for over a week.

 

Want to go the DIY route?

  • Fulfill a Wish List– Ask your favorite nonprofit organization for a wish list and purchase or solicit items that will support the services they provide year-round.
  • Organize a Giving Circle- Invite friends and family to join a giving circle. Host a giving circle gathering, select an agency or cause you'd like to support and set your giving goal.
  • Hold a Drive such as a Coat and Shoe Drive– Locate an organization in your community that needs coats and shoes this winter and start collecting new or gently used items. To find organizations accepting donations call 2-1-1 or reach out to some of your local nonprofits.

 

 

 

Thank you for your interest in group volunteering!