Your first week as a volunteer

Welcome aboard. The first week is mostly about getting to know your way around — there's no test, no rush, and no minimum hours. Here's a small checklist that most volunteers find useful.

Day 1 — Finish your profile

Open Profile in the sidebar. The Personal Information section is where your name and photo live. The Address section is where your city lives — it sits below personal info on the same page. Add your real name, a friendly photo, and confirm your address. Other volunteers see your name and photo when they look you up, and your city is what lets the site put you in the right local group.

Day 2 — Find your city's group

Open Groups in the sidebar. Your city's groups show up at the top of the page automatically once your address is set. If yours isn't listed yet, use the Filter by city dropdown or type into the search box. Joining the group shows you the local conversation and any upcoming meet-ups.

Day 3 — Read a few posts

Open the feed (the home page when you're signed in) and read what people are talking about. Like a post you enjoy. There's no pressure to comment yet.

Day 4 — RSVP to one event

Look for the next event near you and click Yes, I'll be there or Maybe. This is the single best way to meet other volunteers in person.

Day 5 — Say hi in your group

Open your city's group and post a one-line introduction. Members get a notification, and it's the easiest way to put yourself on the map.

Days 6 and 7 — Take a break

Volunteering should fit your life, not the other way around. Come back when you're ready and pick up where you left off.

Stuck on any step?

Each task above has its own short article in this help center. Search for what you need, or contact support — we're happy to help.