Can you tell us about yourself and the volunteer work you do?
Currently I am working in the online marketing industry. I work for a company called Oddcast Technologies that specializes in creating online conversational characters that are used by many small businesses, educational intuitions and non- profits.

I also volunteer as a Young Associate, helping to raise funds and spread the word about Education Through Music an excellent non-profit that believes music instruction should be an integral part of every inner-city student’s education, regardless of their ability level or socioeconomic condition.

How did you get involved with YNPN-NYC? Why did you decide to volunteer with us?
I first learned about YNPN-NYC about a year ago and thought it would be an excellent opportunity to meet other young professionals who work or volunteered in the non-profit industry.

Currently I am one of the volunteers helping to put together the monthly YNPN-NYC newsletter. I also played a role in planning and implementing the new newsletter design.

As a volunteer, you’re giving up your free time to support an organization/cause. What motivates you to do this?
My motivation as a volunteer is simple. I believe that everyone regardless of their social or economical position should give something back to the community that they live in. Everyone has certain skills that they are blessed with and it’s our responsibility to use those skills to help others.

Before you make a commitment to volunteer, what things do you look for in an organization/cause? How do you decide whether it’s worth your time and skills?
The main thing I look for before committing to an organization is that their mission matches my beliefs and causes that I am passionate about. I tend to gravitate towards smaller organizations that focus on human interest and may not have a lot of media coverage but are looking for volunteers to come in and do grassroots work for them.

What advice can you give an organization on how to manage volunteers?
One of my pet peeves about some non-profits is the lack of communication they have with their volunteers. I have had numerous experiences where I have shown interest in volunteering for a non-profit only to have no one contact me or I receive an initial contact and never hear from that non profit again. I think that volunteers can be an integral part of any non-profit’s work. I understand that at many of these organizations are under staffed, however I believe that time should be taken (even if its once a month) to reach out to your volunteer base so that they do not lose interest.

For all the readers who are thinking about getting more involved and seeking out volunteer work, what advice would you give them?
Go Ahead!!! Even if you can only volunteer an hour a week of your time you will be making a difference!