Interested in volunteering as a group?

Finding opportunities for larger groups can be difficult. We have tried to simplify the process for you by providing a step-by-step guide to using VCLA to find opportunities for group volunteering.

To start your search and find a project for your group...

1. Log In Here
2. Select "Project Calendar" from the menu bar on the left
3. Select either:
   1. Search Projects – Select “Advanced Search,” then choose "Good for Groups" under the Project Attributes, along with any additional search criteria you want
   2. Project Calendar – Select "Good for Groups"
4. Click on the project or event you are interested in for more information
5. You will have the choice to either:
   1. Sign me up – Certain events will allow you to sign up for a specific project on our website. This will only sign you up, it will not sign-up members of your team
   2. Sign my team up – If you have created a team (recommended for groups), you can sign up yourself and any eligible team members you select. See "How to Create a Team."
   3. Have agency contact me – If online sign-up is not available, you can request that the agency contacts you directly with more information
6. You will receive a confirmation email which contains all of the information you should need, including contact information for the host agency

Tip – all projects you are signed up for, will be listed in the "My Projects" section in the Member Center (available at all times, from the menu bar on the left). Use the Member Center to manage your team, view details, or remove yourself and/or your team from projects

Wish someone could do it for you?

We have had over 60 years of experience in planning and implementing volunteer projects. If you need help contact Pedro Barrientos at pbarrientos@vcla.net to get started.

Top 10 Considerations for Group Volunteering

1. How many people are in your group? 
   The larger the group, the more difficult it will be to find opportunities. Consider splitting into smaller groups, or offering shifts.
2. When are you available to volunteer?
   Projects during the evening and sometimes even weekends, can be more challenging to find as most nonprofits operate during traditional business hours.
3. Consider the time of year 
   If you want to work outdoors, think about what time it gets dark and the weather conditions. School holidays may also have an impact on participation or project availability.
4. How long do you want to volunteer for?
   In our experience, 3-4 hours is the ideal length of time for group projects, particularly if the work is hard manual labor – remember, you can always go back again
5. What ages are your group members?
   People are often more willing to participate if they can bring family members. If children are going to be included, select your project appropriately.
6. What do you want to do?
   There are many choices available to you. Think about the skills and interests of your group.
7. Am I meeting a real community need?
   While certain types of project may be very appealing to your group, consider whether there are more pressing needs that your group could help with.
8. Do I have a budget to help with supplies? 
   If the project requires supplies, this can be very costly for the nonprofit, particularly when large groups are involved.
9. Create a Team
   This website has a great team management feature that allows you to invite people to join your team, sign team members up for projects, communicate with your team, and more. See How to Create a Team.
10. Don’t be afraid to ask
    If you don’t see anything suitable for your group, that doesn’t mean that the opportunity doesn’t exist. If you see a nonprofit that you are interested in helping, contact the Volunteer Coordinator and ask!

 Now let’s get you signed up and on your way!

Start Now!!!

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