Volunteer Welcome Kit
You’ve joined a global network using data skills to help nonprofits amplify their social impact. This kit shows how to get started, how projects run, and where to get help.
Start here
Join Slack
Our hub for updates, briefs, and help:
Join channels:
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#say-hi – Introduce yourself, ask quick questions.
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#project-collaboration – New projects, teaming up.
Add the next Project kickoff to your calendar and participate in a live intro to the nonprofit, their data, and goals. Recordings provided.
Follow us
Get project alerts and hear the latest
How Projects Work
Step 1: Kick-off – Meet the nonprofit, hear their mission and access the project details. In case you can’t join the live event, you can watch the recording.
Step 2: Build at Your Own Pace – Create any of the following: dashboards, analyses, data stories, frameworks, documentation
Step 3: Submit Your Work – Upload your work by the project deadline.
Step 4: Nonprofit Review – The nonprofit reviews all submissions and selects their favourite ones.
Step 5: Join Volunteer Showcase – Selected volunteers present their work at a live event. Everyone is welcome to join and celebrate.
Time Commitment
We know everyone is busy! Most volunteers spend approximately 5–15 hours on a project.
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Join the projects that inspire you.
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You can decide to create a single chart, if you don't have time to do the whole project
Recognition & Benefits
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Showcase your work to nonprofits and peers.
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Build your portfolio with real world projects.
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Earn volunteer certificates.
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Get featured in our LinkedIn highlights and community posts.
Community Guidelines
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Be respectful and inclusive.
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We all learn from each other so feel free to ask for help
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Credit others when sharing ideas or resources.
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Remember that you are volunteering your skills to create impact. This is not a competition.
FAQs
Q: Which tool do I use?Any! Our approach is tool-agnostic. You’re welcome to use the tools you know best, whether that’s Tableau, Power BI, R, or something else. If you’re looking to try a new platform, that’s encouraged too. It’s all about using the right tools to create impact.
Q: What if I miss a showcase?
No problem. Your work still makes a difference.
Q: Who can volunteer with Data ChangeMakers?
Anyone with a passion for using data for good — whether you're into data strategy, analysis, visualization, storytelling, or just learning. Beginners and experts are all welcome!
Q: Do I need to be an expert?
No, you don’t need to be an expert. We welcome all skill levels — from beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, there’s a way for you to contribute.
Q: How do I know when a new project is available?
We’ll announce new projects via email, in our Slack channel and on social media.
Q: Can I collaborate with other volunteers?
Absolutely! Many volunteers team up for projects. Use our Slack channels to find partners, ask questions, and co-create.
Q: What kind of data will I work with?
This varies by project. You might receive spreadsheets, survey results, case studies, or reports. We work closely with the nonprofit to ensure the data is ethical, relevant, and safe to share.
Q: How do I submit my work?
The deadline and submission instructions will be in the project brief.
Q: What happens after I submit my work?
The nonprofit will review all contributions and select those that will provide the most impact. Selected volunteers will be invited to present at our live showcase event.
Q: Will I get feedback?
Where possible, yes. While we can't guarantee detailed feedback for every submission, many nonprofits share insights on what stood out and how your work is being used. On occasion, we organize sessions where volunteers can seek feedback from other volunteers
Q: Can I use my work in my portfolio?
Definitely! These projects are a great way to build your portfolio and showcase your skills — especially in purpose-driven work. A few projects may be under an NDA, and our charity partners will guide us on usage in portfolio.