A couple of weeks ago, NPR did an expose on a new iPhone app called The Extraordinaries, which I think could be a kick in the pants to volunteerism if executed correctly. Called “micro-volunteering”, The Extraordinaries enables folks who want to lend 10 minutes of their time (i.e. while waiting for a bus) to donate their time to help a nonprofit. Volunteer needs range from tagging photos from Australia to mapping places where kids can play. The app itself is pretty slick and easy to understand. Although only supporting a handful of NPOs as part of the pilot, The Extraordinaries plans to open their platform to everyone in the early fall.
While definitely not a traditional platform for volunteers, I really like the idea of easy-peasy volunteering. I’ve noticed a significant increase in volunteers who want to volunteer for a one-day event or for a quick project, but few that want to get involved long term. While this is a problem within itself, The Extraordinaries will enable nonprofits to tap into those volunteers who just want to give you a few extra minutes of their time, perhaps anonymously, without committing to any long term relationships.
I’ve already signed up GoodDogz.org to participate in the program once opened, so I’ll let you know how it goes. Check it out if you are looking for a new way to involve volunteers with your cause!
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