3.) Following training, you’ll set up an agency profile by clicking
HERE and will begin submitting volunteer opportunities, hereafter referred to as “needs.” These needs can be a one time request such as a gardening day at your facility, or they can be ongoing such as volunteering at an after school program. Needs are reviewed by UWBR and posted to the live site.
Testimonials
"The ease of use and set-up is important in our busy times. Being on this program has been a huge benefit to connecting with potential volunteers. This gives the agency the opportunity to share our programs and our volunteer needs without incurring the expense we would have with advertising through local news media. We also find that a volunteer that responds to this posting is one that is truly interested in our programs and becoming involved."- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rock, Walworth, and Jefferson Counties
“I manage multiple social media platforms and websites, and the Get Connected site is one of the most user-friendly I have tried. It’s easy to set up on your own, but the live training webinar adds valuable tips and tricks to get the most out of your experience. For example, your volunteers can use the platform to complete timesheets, which you can then approve online and export to a spreadsheet for your records. The training offers best practices from the viewpoint of both an agency and a volunteer, so you know how to fill volunteer needs efficiently. I enthusiastically recommend it!” - Community Action Inc, of Rock and Walworth Counties
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of volunteer needs should I post?
A. Whether it's a one-time event like a 5k fundraiser, an ongoing commitment such as serving on a committee or volunteering in a shelter, or periodic support like gardening or clerical work, the possibilities are endless!
Q: I already have a volunteer management program. Why should I use Get Connected?
A: Get Connected is FREE for all area organizations. We do understand that you may have a program in place that works well for your organization. However, Get Connected is an additional channel for you to use in your recruiting efforts helping you reach new audiences across our region. It does not need to replace but may compliment what you currently have.
Q: What cool functions are available through Get Connected?
A: It can help volunteers track hours, generate volunteer resumes, and assign a monetary equivalent to tracked volunteer hours for grant purposes. It also allows volunteers to search by keyword or interest, and emails notifications to volunteers of new postings that match their interests. We affectionately refer to it as a Match.com for volunteerism.
Q: How often do I need to update our profile?
A: As often as you like or as new volunteer opportunities become available. You may also add an expiration date to events or postings so they automatically disable.
Q: Are background checks conducted on volunteers?
A: No, any prerequisites you may have for volunteers within your organization are still your responsibility. Get Connected helps to match you with prospective volunteers, but it has to be the right fit for both parties.
Q: I already have a volunteer management program. Why should I use Get Connected?
A: Get Connected is FREE for all area organizations. We do understand that you may have a program in place that works well for your organization. However, Get Connected can be an additional channel for you to use in your recruiting efforts. It does not need to replace what you currently have.
Q: I already have a Get Connected profile with another United Way. Do I need to create a new profile for my agency?
A: If you have a profile with another United Way Get Connected site, you will simply have to create another profile through United Way Blackhawk Region’s Get Connected Site. If you will utilize the same person to maintain both Agency Profiles, there is no need to take the Agency Manager Training again.