Go Pro-Bono.
This is an era of meaningful actions, helping others, and contributing to make the world a better place. With organizations popping up such as the Taproot Foundation, volunteer design work is becoming more organized and more common. A strong online presence is an integral component for non-profits with ongoing fundraising campaigns, and many organizations are lacking in this area. There is a high demand for professional high-quality design services at a free or very inexpensive price.
Why Pro-Bono Is Worth It.
You are Making a Difference
You’re contributing to an important cause and acknowledging it’s important. If every creative professional completed one pro-bono project, the non-profit world might receive the recognition and resources they deserve. It is integral for non-profits to employ strategic marketing methods in order to be successful in this highly technological era. They will never have the means to pay a high-end firm to do this, therefore they desperately need you .
It Feels Good
Pro-bono work can be some of the most fulfilling projects of your career. You will likely feel passionate about the work and it always feels good to help something in need. You will feel useful and very appreciated.
You Can Do It From Home
For many people, they don’t have any extra blocks of time to schedule more activities. However, they might be able to fit in an hour here and there. Pro-bono is flexible. Make it happen wherever you can fit it in.
It Feeds Creativity
Many organizations give you complete creative liberties as they feel anything is better than what they currently have. This freedom can allow for inspiring and cutting-edge work. It also can be invigorating if your day job is draining your creativity.
You Make Great Connections
Many people in the non-profit world are passionate and inspiring. Get to know them.
Get Started.
The Taproot Foundation
- Well-organized pro-bono placement organization.
- Managed like a typical agency project.
- Work with a diverse team of professionals.
- Schedule and time-line management.
- I’ve had great experiences with Taproot.
Idealist.org
- Lists hundreds of non-profits around the world.
- You can search in your community or work virtually.
- Search for keywords ‘graphic design’ or ‘web design’ to find loads of organizations in need.
- I‘ve also had good experiences with Idealist.
Designism Connects
- Listings of non-profits in particular need of design skills and/or projects.
- There are a ton of projects listed here for a wide variety of skill sets.
Design 21 – Social Design Network
- Great portal for social design inspiration and networking.
- Projects for involvement listed under ‘Act’.
Or contact any non-profit of interest. I bet they need you.
Stay tuned for a follow-up article containing Valuable Advice for Pro-Bono Success.
