Joining an NGO requires first determining which non-governmental organization you want to be a part of. Each not-for-profit organization is dedicated to a single cause, though some organizations serve multiple causes. It’s also crucial to have a sense of how involved you’d like to be, as there are likely a variety of options available to you. After you’ve decided which one you’d like to get more involved with, contact the independent organization to learn more about the joining process.
You may be able to join an NGO making a donation or simply filling out a membership application. Some social and civil society organizations allow you to join providing your contact information or making a donation over the phone or online. When you join an NGO as a volunteer, you may be able to put your skills to use, in which case a face-to-face meeting with one or more representatives of the organization may be required.
Take your time researching an NGO’s background, reputation, and goals before deciding whether or not to join. Familiarize yourself with the organization’s mission statement and consider how your involvement with it aligns with that mission. If you want to volunteer for an NGO, think about your skills and whether you can devote the time required to fulfill those responsibilities.
When applying to join an NGO, you should consider submitting a resume, especially if your skills are applicable to a field not listed on the membership application. If you plan to work in a hands-on capacity, you should introduce yourself to key staff members and volunteers of an organization in addition to introducing yourself via a resume or application. Even if you’re joining making a monetary donation, inquire about other ways you can help the organization raise awareness of its cause and gain additional support.
Ask how long your initial membership will last as you begin the application process to join an NGO, whether volunteering or making a charitable donation. In some cases, membership must be renewed contributing again or volunteering for a certain number of hours. When you apply to join an NGO, make sure to ask about any upcoming special events that you might be able to participate in.