When you start contacting nonprofit organizations, you will quickly see that no two are alike. Understanding an organization’s philosophy will help you determine if a given volunteer opportunity is a good fit for you.

You may find you really like an organization, but that the volunteer opportunity it currently is advertising is not a good match. Inquire about whether there are other ways you might contribute to the organization’s mission.

Below are several questions to help you determine whether the organization or opportunity is a good match.

• What does your organization do?
• Who do you serve? (People in a certain geographic area, age group, etc.)
• What outcomes have your efforts produced?
• Do you have a specific philosophy guiding your work?
• How many volunteers are in your group? What are their responsibilities?
• Is there a designated volunteer coordinator who would be your point of contact?
• What is the time commitment?
• Do they provide assistance with travel, parking or other incidental expenses?
• Can you speak with others who have volunteered with the organization in the past?
• What opportunities are there for family members to accompany you / participate?