Do you want to contribute your generous share to society and be a valuable part of a changemaker? Do you want a better India where smiles on faces are more precious than anything else? Your path to goodness is joining an NGO and being a part of society working relentlessly to provide necessary and basic amenities to the undeserved society. But as a beginner, are you perplexed as to what the right approach to joining and working for an NGO is?
This blog will take you through the process of how you can join an NGO to work for a better society. Driven by a collective passion for selfless giving, these NGOs address social, economic, and environmental issues. Join an NGO to contribute to the cause. Here’s how.
Also Read:Role of NGO in Women’s Empowerment
Multiple Roles and Profiles In an NGO To Join
There are various roles you can opt for when thinking to join an NGO:
1. Volunteer
Volunteering is one of the most loved and popular ways people choose to become a part of an NGO. You can work for the welfare of others or the cause that particular NGO is working for by simply becoming a volunteer in one or multiple NGOs. If you want to make a difference in the lives of others, explore various opportunities available at Aashritha to join as a volunteer.
2. Full-Time Job
If you want to become a full-time member of an NGO, your roles could be that of a staff member, project manager, fundraiser, administrative staff, and others. These profiles offer a full-time chance to work for an NGO as per your preferences and qualifications. Explore the opportunities at Aashritha to join as a full-time member and contribute to the welfare of others and people in need.
3. Part-Time Job
Part-time jobs in NGOs are similar to full-time jobs, but you have to work less hours for that. You continue to be a student or carry on whatever side hustle you have in your life. Explore opportunities at Aashritha to join as a part-time member and work for the welfare of others and people in need.
4. Internship
If you are interested in learning and getting your hands on NGO operations, an internship is the best idea. You gain practical knowledge of how things are done and carried out daily. Consider exploring the internship opportunities at Aashritha, where you can work for the welfare of others while gaining valuable experience.
5. Donor/Sponsor
Financial support for the NGO can be provided by donations, sponsorships, or fundraising initiatives. By becoming a donor, you indirectly become a very valuable part of an NGO. You can support Aashritha by donating and making a difference in the lives of those in need.
6. Partner/Collaborator
Collaborations and partnerships are essential for NGOs to increase their influence and reach. Partnering with Aashritha can increase the effect of your activities, whether you’re a corporate organization seeking to promote social causes or a clinician eager to provide medical services. Investigate joint venture possibilities with Aashritha and work together to improve the neighborhood.
Steps to Joining an NGO In India
If you are keen to join an NGO in India, here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Analyze What You Want to Do
Your NGO journey should begin with reflecting on your interests and values. Begin with understanding what you want as an individual taking a path to serve others. Understand what issues prompted you to take this decision and move ahead only when enough self-analysis has been done. Now that you are aware of what topics you want to touch and be a part of as a changemaker, the road ahead will be clear. It can be human rights, animals, old people, disabled individuals, and others.
Once you’ve discovered your areas of interest, explore different causes relating to those interests, as well as the issues that communities face and how non-governmental organizations (NGOs) solve them. This will increase your knowledge and allow you to choose a cause that aligns with your ideals.
Step 2: Look For an NGO
Now after having a clear understanding of your passion, it’s time to start researching for NGOs in the area you are comfortable working for. To find NGOs in India, use online resources to search by location, cause, or keywords. Additionally, ask friends, family, and colleagues who have volunteered with NGOs for recommendations on trustworthy and reputable organizations.
The World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations, for example, provides comprehensive, searchable NGO databases organized by subject area.
Step 3: Shortlist & Evaluate
Now when you have a list of NGOs ready, shortlist and begin with evaluating based on multiple parameters like mission, objectives, goals, operations, transparency, values, and more. This is to ensure your goals and preferences match with what they have to offer.
Examine the mission and objectives of the NGOs you’re interested in. Ensure that their mission is consistent with your beliefs and that their goals are clear, attainable, and impactful.
Check to see if the NGO is transparent about its operations and accountable for the funds it gets. You can browse for financial statements, yearly reports, and information about their programs and projects. Transparency and accountability are key indications of a well-run and trustworthy organization.
Step 4: Contact the Shortlisted NGOs
Once you are ready with the list of all the NGOs you wish to work for and with, it is time you start contacting them to express your interest in working with them. This step should be done with care, professionalism, and some sympathy to let them know you are genuinely interested in working for the betterment of society.
To get contact information for an NGO, go to their website or social media page. Search for email addresses, phone numbers, and online contact forms.
In a brief but sincere letter, let them know about your interest in volunteering or becoming a member of the NGO. Make an introduction, discuss your interests, and ask about volunteer opportunities and other ways you may help. Give specifics regarding your qualifications, your availability, and the amount of time you can devote.
Step 5: Join!
Once you have done everything on your part, wait for a response from their end. See what NGOs have responded and what they have to offer. Whatever offers and interests you get, finalize one where both parties can add value to each other’s goals.
In India, there are a lot of NGOs that welcome volunteers with time and skill contributions. Once you have obtained all the required information, volunteer at an NGO. You will have a beneficial influence and gain an understanding of the organization’s work and culture by volunteering there.
Offer to help with continuing initiatives, occasions, fund-raising efforts, or secretarial duties. You’ll build a rapport with the organization and learn a lot from this experience.
Step 6: Stay Dedicated
Yes, it extends to you not letting your motivation spark dull in both the long and short term. After you have successfully entered an NGO, never forget what took you here and what’s ahead in the path. Keep working towards making a difference because that’s what you aimed for. Go through the NGO objectives and mission again, discuss your feelings with coworkers, and make an effort to recall why this work is so important to you.
For the short term, make an effort to communicate with the individuals or organizations you assisted through phone calls, emails, or letters. Take photos as you go for long-term projects so you can see the real impact you’ve made.
Step 7: Never Stop Learning
Yes, never stop learning. Doesn’t matter if you are a part of what goal, there’s something to learn every day from anywhere. Be it your experience, reading books, meeting more and more people, and day-to-day job, be vigilant to what comes your way. If you are in it, make every inch of you work toward it because it’s satisfying and good.
Also Read: Role of NGO in Women’s Empowerment
In India, becoming a member of an NGO is a fulfilling way to support social problems and improve the community. These stages can help you start a rewarding journey of helping others and working towards a better society. From discovering your interests, studying NGOs, evaluating trustworthiness, volunteering, developing skills, looking into career prospects, and networking, to never stopping learning, there’s a long way to go. Aashritha has taken the initiative to ensure that everyone enjoys a joyful life. The real change can only come about with your unwavering devotion to the cause.
In our journey to help people in need, we are encouraged by your support and committed to achieving major progress.
