My Journey as an Online Volunteer
In a world often overwhelmed by challenges, finding a way to contribute meaningfully, from wherever we are, can feel daunting. But for the past several years, I’ve discovered a deeply fulfilling path through online volunteering, using my design and web development skills to support nonprofit organizations around the world.
My journey began long before the digital era made remote collaboration mainstream. I’ve worked in website design and development since 1996 and have specialized in visual design since 2008. Based in Portugal, I offer remote services to clients across the globe. But beyond my professional work, I’ve always felt a strong desire to give back, to use my skills in service of something greater.
Since 2018, I’ve volunteered through the United Nations Online Volunteering (UNV) programme, contributing my time to organizations that are working tirelessly for social change. Through this platform, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with causes I believe in, such as MultiPOD Mentoring, an international excellence professional training and coaching program for students and young professionals in global health and human development , or Eshet Children and Youth Development Organization (ECYDO), dedicated to empowering children and youth by providing essential services in health, education, and social development. From designing websites to creating visual materials, I’ve been able to play a small but meaningful role in helping them reach wider audiences and amplify their missions.
What makes this experience so enriching is not just the impact of the work itself, but the connections it creates, across countries, languages, and cultures. Volunteering online has introduced me to people from all over the world, each passionate about creating change in their communities. It has broadened my perspective and reaffirmed my belief that we all have something valuable to offer.
Many people think that volunteering requires long hours or travel, but that’s not always the case. As an online volunteer, I can contribute from home, in my own time, alongside my other commitments. All it takes is a willingness to share your skills. Whether you're a designer, translator, writer, developer, or strategist. There's a need for what you know!
Over the years, I’ve also supported several nonprofit organizations here in Portugal, building websites and designing materials that help them tell their story. The common thread through all these experiences is the sense of purpose they bring. Giving my time in this way doesn’t just support others, it gives me something too: fulfillment, connection, and the joy of knowing that small contributions can make a big difference.
For anyone wondering whether online volunteering is worth exploring, I can only say this: yes. It’s a rewarding way to use your expertise, grow your network, and feel part of something bigger, no matter where you are in the world.
Originally published in Portuguese at https://observador.pt/opiniao/a-minha-experiencia-como-voluntaria-online/ [“Observador”, Newspaper Publishing Lisboa, Portugal]
Here are a few of my contributions as an online volunteer
