How to Volunteer for an NGO in India?

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) emerge as significant elements of change within the delicate social fabric of India. Every NGO in India is tirelessly working and trying to address issues of social concern — poverty, education, healthcare, gender inequality, environmental sustainability, and more. Any NGO in India will not be able to successfully tackle these challenges without help from common people. 

So, in case you are thinking of working as an NGO volunteer then you need to channel your skill by volunteering for an NGO in India.  We at Akshaya Chaitanya welcome you to join in our mission to eradicate hunger in Mumbai. With our programs like Swasthya Ahara, Paushtik Ahara and Bal Shiksha Ahara, we are trying to reach out to people who are striving hard to get even the next meal.

What does it mean to be an NGO volunteer? 

You need to understand your motivation behind becoming an NGO volunteer. Whether you’re passionate about education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or women empowerment, there is an NGO in India dedicated to your cause. By offering your time, skills, and enthusiasm, you become an integral part of their mission to bring a positive change in society. 

Finding the right National NGO to volunteer? 

  • The first step towards becoming an NGO volunteer is to identify organizations that are aligned with your cause. Several NGOs are operating across the country— ranging from grassroots initiatives to large-scale movements. 
  • When you decide to be an NGO volunteer for a national NGO, you also have to see if the requirements on the website match any of your skills. 
  • You can begin your search by leveraging the online directory and then thoroughly investigating the website. 
  • The other way is to reach out to the local community centres and ask them if you can contribute in any way to their activities. 
  • Once you have shortlisted a few NGOs, you can take some time to research the vision, mission and impact of all the National NGOs you have selected. Finally, don’t forget to finalise what resonates with your passion. 

How to begin working as an NGO Volunteer? 

  • You can write a well-drafted email with your CV attached and what you expect after becoming an NGO volunteer. Most organisations recognise the invaluable contribution that the NGO volunteer brings to the table and welcome him/her with open arms. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a retiree, there are opportunities for people of all ages to make a difference.
  • Depending on the guidelines of the national NGO, the volunteering activity will start with attending the orientation of the national NGO. 
  • Followed by training, observation and obtaining the required clearance. Once you familiarise yourself with the protocol and culture of the organisation, it becomes easier to be a part of their activities as an NGO volunteer. 

Making an Impact as NGO Volunteer

You’ll have to either learn the required skills or use the existing skills to contribute your part as an NGO volunteer. You may find yourself teaching English to underprivileged children or distributing food to them, participating in health screening drives, writing for the NGO to spread awareness or participating in other on-ground activities. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of NGO volunteering is the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of your actions on people. Whether it is about observing someone’s face light up because of your help or communities coming together to help each other, these are powerful moments that will change your perspective towards life. 

Akshaya Chaitanya is welcoming volunteers from all walks of life to experience the joy of giving and helping. You can write to us and our team will guide you through the process. So, let’s join hands and work together to build a brighter future.