No matter where you are in the world, today’s global economic “crisis” has affected you or someone you know.  Over 500,000 jobs were lost in November and organizations like Focus on The Family, the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing and defending families worldwide, have already cut 18% of its workforce. However, this global crisis also presents a unique opportunity for nonprofits to tap into other resources.  In order to continue providing outstanding services to the community, nonprofits small and large will need to be creative and find alternative solutions to maintain operations.  A boost in unrestricted funding would help although throwing more money to this situation may not be the best solution.  In my experience working and volunteering with nonprofits, utilizing virtual volunteers is an excellent yet highly under-used resource.  Here are five reasons why utilizing virtual volunteers will help you survive today’s economic crisis.

Increase Efficiency
Recruiting skills-based virtual volunteers who already have the specific skills your organization needs will free up the staff’s time to work on high priority tasks whether it’s fundraising, board development or marketing.  With less on their plate, nonprofit employees can focus their efforts in other areas, thus increasing staff productivity and overall organizational efficiency.

Nonprofits Beware: Virtual volunteers with the appropriate skills can also help in critical areas like board development, fundraising and marketing, among others.  Be specific as to what skills, level of commitment and expertise you are looking for from them.

Low Costs
In reality, your organization can’t afford to lose or hire additional staff; however, in order to outlive the current economy, layoffs may be imminent.  Assigning virtual volunteers to a myriad of projects can help reduce operating expenses. You can forgo added depreciation expenses of essential office equipment, travel reimbursements and training costs.  Virtual volunteers have their own (or access to) computers, email, phones and other supplies.  And if you recruit the right people – which you should do no matter the situation – they will need little or no training.  The negative connotation associated with the saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t quite ring true in this instance.

Find Potential Employees
Volunteering is a great way for job seekers to test their skills, learn new ones and also offers the nonprofit an additional screening process to determine if the volunteer is suitable for paid employment.  Reaching out to virtual volunteers can increase your organization’s pool of potential, and qualified, candidates. Not only can you recruit employees this way but your organization will be seen as one that cares about its volunteer’s professional advancement.  Junior level managers and entry level workers will appreciate you giving them the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to excel in the workforce.

Leverage Your Resources
Are you looking for a Brand Strategist, Fundraising or HR Consultant?  Not only will you be connected to your virtual volunteers but you can also tap into their resources.  S/he may have just the contact you need.  The more seasoned the professional, the more people you have the opportunity to connect with.  Networking is an excellent tool for seeking new donors, volunteers and resources. Open your door to the world and imagine the possibilities!

Virtual Work in Action: Being the Program Manager at a California based nonprofit, I now have a network of friends and colleagues roughly 3,000 miles away from my New York home. Keep in mind I have not travelled to CA nor meet the President of this organization. We’ve maintained a virtual relationship going on 3 years and at this point, I’d call her a great friend, colleague and consistent supporter of my work as a social entrepreneur.

It’s Still Community Service
People are always looking for ways to give back.  Some of those people may live on the other side of town, another country or simply unable to commute to your office.  By offering virtual volunteer opportunities, your nonprofit is open to more support from people who want to help further your cause.  Explore new demographics!  Besides if it’ll cost you nothing, why not spread awareness about the great work you do with folks on the other side of the world?

Keep in mind these reasons by no means suggest there are no risks involved with recruiting virtual volunteers.  Each organization is different and must do the research to accurately assess whether bringing on additional support in the form of virtual volunteers will be worthwhile.

Chanelle Carver is a social entrepreneur, mentor and consultant for startup and small nonprofit organizations. She’s the founder of Literacy ‘n’ Poverty Project, an activist for various social causes and has worked and volunteered with nonprofits from around the country. Contact Chanelle at carver [at] literacyandpovertyproject.com with your questions.

title photo by ~Prescott