Working with charities

The voluntary sector is hugely under-funded and relies very heavily on unpaid work.

iT4C volunteer quoted in "Evaluation Report: Volunteer matching service" by Paul Ticher and Andrea Eaves

If you have previously only worked in a commercial environment you may find working with voluntary organisations and charities presents something of a culture shock.

You may work in a fast moving IT department using the latest cutting-edge technology. Or you may be supporting a helpdesk where every call is more important than the last. Things may be slightly different at a voluntary organisation:

  • Although IT will be important to them they may not have the budget to buy what they'd like
  • Doing their frontline work will be a higher priority than supporting IT
  • Staff may work part-time and may not be able to respond quickly to questions about IT
  • There may not be anyone responsible for their IT systems.

You may initially find it frustrating working with a voluntary organisation. If you've agreed to start work with them then you'll certainly be keen to make progress and you may be held up waiting for information from the organisation. Please try to be patient.

Foster a sense of community and togetherness by working with a group for the good of the community.

Yewande Olowokere, iT4C volunteer

There are huge benefits to working with charities. As well as the chance to practise your skills you may:

  • learn about different cultures and social groups
  • work with people who are enthusiastic about their cause
  • have the satisfaction of a project completed
  • make new friends
  • win one of our awards!

If you have problems working with a charity please contact us for help.