The value of volunteering: Connecting people to conservation
Want to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and help causes you are passionate about? Volunteering has huge benefits for both the volunteer and the organisation. And the best part is, you can be from any age or background and you do not have to be a scientist to be a conservationist.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that without volunteers, Conservation Without Borders (CWB) would not exist.
“Volunteers believing in an idea is how CWB was born, and I couldn’t have done it without them,” said CWB Founder Sacha Dench.
“They came in many forms at the beginning. From the top scientist that volunteered to oversee our research if I set it up, to the web designer that offered to explain the concepts via creating a great online experience. To those who were happy to volunteer with administration and fundraising.”
The CWB volunteer team today has, amongst others, designers, lawyers, project managers, students, executive coaches, and linguists, all contributing their expertise.
As a small NGO, CWB relies heavily on the dedication of like-minded volunteers. They are the glue that holds together all the moving parts, ensuring that our expeditions run smoothly and increasing awareness of our work, and that of our partners and fellow change-makers.
What’s in it for you?
Our volunteers have provided skillsets for no financial reward and at a cost of their own time. So, why would you volunteer? What is in it for you?
For volunteers at CWB, it is the opportunity to use their skills for a common goal – bringing together people from different walks of life to uncover problems, find solutions, and to record and share them through powerful, inspiring imagery and stories.
“It takes lots of different skills to make conservation happen. One of the joys is giving our volunteers insights and experiences they might never have had otherwise. Plus, there are opportunities to collaborate with people of different cultures, as our projects span many countries,” said Sacha.
In a competitive employment environment, volunteering for organisations can help your CV stand-out.
“Volunteering, especially within the field of conservation, is almost essential in terms of career prospects,” said Megan McFarlane, a communications volunteer at CWB. “CWB was my first opportunity to combine my skills with my passions and interests, which has led me to my current role at Wetlands International as a Communications Intern."
Social media volunteer Mhairi Mitchell said her time volunteering helped her to secure her first full-time role, since graduating two years ago. She is now working as a content coordinator at Mary’s Meals.
Furthermore, if you have already volunteered for the company you want to work for, chances are, you will have been able to prove your worth which could result in a paid position.
“Most of our employees and contractors were originally volunteers, people that already believe in our mission and have an understanding of what we do and what they can bring. Not only do they do well in interviews, but they have also demonstrated what they can bring, Sacha said.
You don’t have to be a scientist to be a conservationist
Some people may get put off applying to volunteer for conservation roles on the belief that applicants must have a background in science. But, the skills that make any business thrive, can be utilised to boost conservation projects, too.
“While not scientists of any kind, our volunteers can all call themselves conservationists, because it takes a lot more than scientists to deliver conservation,” said Sacha.
Smaller NGOs often do not have the funds for huge teams of people on the payroll. Volunteers can help take some of the burden off often over-stretched staff. Positions can range from communications, administration, finances, to hands-on work.
While some organisations advertise their roles, if there is an organisation that fits with your values and goals, then you can also drop them a message and offer your services.
CWB’s Flight of the Osprey’s intern Elynor Todd-Jones did just that. Elynor sent Sacha an email asking if she was free for a cup-of tea and a chat about potential opportunities. Following their cuppa, she was hired on the spot.
Matching your goals with the organisations you volunteer for, will also keep you motivated.
For Megan she wanted to volunteer with CWB, as the organisation was unlike anything she had come across before.
“I think media and communications is an excellent way to get the message across about conservation issues and the threats posed by climate change. It also gives us the opportunity to showcase those on the ground who are doing the hard work. As a journalism and environmental communications graduate, I wanted to play my part in that,” she said.
Mhairi agreed that CWB’s stance on climate change and story-telling was a key part in her wanting to offer her skills.
“I think what Sacha and everyone at CWB does is important. It is one step further to making sure people listen to the crisis we all face,” she said.
Volunteering for an organisation you are passionate about is hugely beneficial for all parties. They get your commitment and free time, and you get the satisfaction of knowing you are helping to further a cause, explained Geemeff, CWB’s media researcher.
“If I see an opportunity to be useful, I’ll happily volunteer my time and effort. Plus, it is usually a great deal of fun, too,” she added.
Go for it!
When our volunteers were asked what advice they would give to those thinking about volunteering, there was one common thread – go for it!
“There’s always a need for extra help in both big and small ways. You’ll connect with like-minded people, and you’ll be making a difference, too.” said Geemeff.
Mhairi agreed that meeting people, while gaining skills and experience was her favourite thing about volunteering.
“I have managed to professionalise skills in ways I never realised. I have gained valuable critiques on work which will impact my future projects. It is a fulfilling and exciting experience,” Mhairi said.
Once you have decided on what skills you can bring, and the organisation you would help, then there is no time like the present to get involved.
“If you can, I would say start now! Find something you are passionate about and make the first step today,” Megan said.
CWB are still looking for a volunteer designer, if this sounds like something you could help us with, click here for further details.
