What is Vinvolved?

Hopefully my previous blog posts have given you a good idea about volunteering and Vinvolved. Want to know more? Watch this cool clip put together by a group of Vinvolved volunteers...it should tell you everything you need to know.


VInvolved from WeMakeMedia on Vimeo.

Is volunteering and charity aid falling?

Government figures show that giving to charity and volunteering rates are falling. It seems that fewer UK citizens are giving their time, support and money to charities and volunteering organisations across the country. In the latest Department of Communities and Local Government's annual citizenship survey it was reported that 74% of people reported to giving money to charity down from 78% in 2005.


Are these figures really shocking? I don't think we need to worry in my view. People are still giving generously in ways that they can, even when they have had to tighten their belts. Look at the Haiti appeal and how much support and generosity that cause generated by the Brits.

Should we be worried by the figures? What are your views?

Using Social Media to Engage and Recruit Volunteers

This is one for the organisations out there desperately trying to recruit new volunteers on to their schemes. The answer? SOCIAL MEDIA. Take a look at the short slideshare presentation for useful advice on how to engage with young people via the web... enjoy!

(2010) Social Media And Volunteers: Use Social Media to recruit and engage volunteers

View more presentations from Devendra Shrikhande.

Volunteers to be rewarded?

Obviously there are no monetary rewards for volunteers who give up their time to support an organisation but what other rewards could be made available to encourage more people to get involved and acknowledge those who actively give up their time? Travel expenses are generally paid for but what other forms support should be provided to volunteers? Can't wait to hear what you think...

ISSUE + GIFT = BETTER WORLD

Here is a short clip about how you can use your gift to tackle an issue you care about and make the world a better place. Some bits of the film may not be relevant to you but it does have an important and strong message. Let me know what you think...

SUMMER OF GIVE

Love music and want to try your hand at volunteering? Why don't you volunteer at a festival this summer... take a look at these sites to find out more about how you can get involved.

http://www.festivalvolunteer.co.uk/

http://vinspired.com/summerofgive/pages/aboutsummerofgive

International Volunteering - The Sky's the Limit

Each year at university we have to endure a short presentation by a very enthusiastic individual looking to sign up other students to an overseas volunteering programme. As a sceptic even I am lured into their promise of seeing the world and makes loads of new friends. But what can you really expect by signing up to an international volunteering scheme/ placement?

Whether you have a few weeks to spare, or a few years, there are loads of organisations that will help you to find a volunteer programme that suits you. What I can say is that some of these programmes are better than others, so make sure you do your research and keep your wits about you. Don't be afraid to question that volunteering organisation and if you can, try to get in touch with other people who have already done the scheme.

Many people are attracted by the idea of volunteering their skills and expertise overseas. It's not only a great way to put your skills into practice and help a cause you are really passionate about, but a great opportunity to travel and see the world.

http://www.voluntaryworker.co.uk/


http://www.gvi.co.uk/


http://www.workingabroad.com

Above are some sites I suggest you take a look at to start you off on your search. They should give you a good understanding of what you can expect from an international volunteering opportunity.

Good luck and let us know how you get on!