Difference between revisions of "Volunteering"

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There are literally thousands of volunteers who represent the passion and commitment behind the scenes which enable The Freecycle Network (R) to function as a grassroots and nonprofit gifting movement.
 
There are literally thousands of volunteers who represent the passion and commitment behind the scenes which enable The Freecycle Network (R) to function as a grassroots and nonprofit gifting movement.
  
= Within your local group =
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= Within your local group = <!--T:2-->
= Share a skill =
 
= Offer ideas =
 
= Mentor Mods (MMods)=
 
  
This position requires varying amounts of time depending on the interest of the individual Mentor Mod. Some choose to help only one group. Others help a couple groups. This role is purely a peer-to-peer role in which one offers tips, guidance and whatnot to a typically newer local volunteer moderator. It's a sort of big brother / big sister type concept -- a nice extra way to help newbie mods. This position requires probably a good year of experience moderating a local TFN group under your belt and a desire to help and an open and patient heart.
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If you're interested in making a contribution to your community and your planet and in keeping stuff out of the local landfill, please keep reading!
  
The Mentor Mod team also heads the Emergency Response Temps - if you wish to learn how to have a mod take care of your group in the event of a disaster, a holiday vacation, or if you're interested in volunteering to serve in one of the positions above, please send an email with a subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with Mentor Mods]
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Being a moderator doesn't require a lot of time but does require some dedication. There is a lot of support available. It's fun and it's a small thing that can make such a big difference.
  
= Graphics Team =
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<!--T:5-->
= Moderator Resource Assistance Team (MRA) =
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We don't have anything tangible to give to a moderator - it's all free, right? - but it's rewarding nevertheless. You'll be keeping the Freecycle Network ticking over and ensuring usable items stay out of landfill sites to have a new lease of life.
= New Group Appprover Team Member (NGA) =
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= Group Outreach and Assistance Team Member (GOA) =
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Here are some '''frequently asked questions''' about being a moderator:
= Trademark Team Member (TM Team) =
 
= Interim Mod Team Member (IMod Team) =
 
  
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*'''What does a moderator do?''' On a daily basis, you’ll approve or reject messages that have been flagged for moderation. As needed, you’ll respond to emails from members and calmly handle any issues or complaints that come in. You’ll keep an eye on the group and remove inappropriate posts.
  
The first stage in volunteering is usually to become one of the [[Moderators]] of your local group. To do this, you can mail your group owner (from the [[home page]]), or respond to an appeal for new moderators on your local group.
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*'''What are the requirements for being a moderator?''' You should be somewhat computer savvy and have regular access to the Internet. You have a few spare minutes each day to spend moderating the group. You are tactful and have good communication skills.
  
The requirements to be a moderator vary from group to group, but generally:
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*'''Is training provided?''' You’ll learn on your own with the assistance of the volunteer who oversees groups in your region. This Quick Start guide will help get you off to a good start. https://wiki.freecycle.org/New_Moderator_Orientation:QuickStart
* You'll need to have been active on your local group for a while.
 
* You should be computer literate. 
 
* You'll need access to a computer, and to the Internet (usually, but not always, broadband).
 
* You'll have to be able to spend at least a couple of hours per week moderating the group. Some groups have a [[http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/rota rota]] and schedules.
 
* You should have good language skills - correct spelling, proper punctuation, complete sentences, and proper grammar are a must. You mustn't type in "chat mode" or "IM mode", or all lower case or upper case.
 
* You'll need the ability to follow instructions.  There are guidelines in place for all Freecycle group moderators to maintain in order to be listed on the main Freecycle webpage.
 
* You should have a positive attitude and the ability to keep your cool when dealing with irate or irresponsible members.
 
* You should have an interest in environmental causes. You know that Freecycle isn't about FREE stuff but about keeping stuff out of the landfills and building community awareness.
 
  
We don't have anything tangible to give to a moderator - it's all free, right? - but it's rewarding nevertheless. You'll be keeping the Freecycle Network ticking over and ensuring usable items stay out of landfill sites to have a new lease of life.
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*'''How can I apply?''' Fill out [https://forms.gle/5Qjz3u99B2pCCxM69 this online form] and keep an eye on your email.
  
= Setting up a Group =
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= Setting up a Group = <!--T:6-->
  
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<!--T:7-->
 
First, make sure there really is no group in your area.  If there is, it, of course, has priority.  See [[How To Sign Up#How do I find my local group?|here]] for how to check.
 
First, make sure there really is no group in your area.  If there is, it, of course, has priority.  See [[How To Sign Up#How do I find my local group?|here]] for how to check.
  
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<!--T:8-->
 
Once you're sure there's no local group already, see [http://startagroup.freecycle.org/ here] for more details.
 
Once you're sure there's no local group already, see [http://startagroup.freecycle.org/ here] for more details.
  
= Other Opportunities =
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= Share a skill = <!--T:9-->
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Do you have a skill you could volunteer to help Freecycle? We are always looking for help in areas such as graphics, fund-raising, and networking. Contact us with your desired volunteering position at [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org Volunteers].
  
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= Offer ideas = <!--T:10-->
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Let us know what you think would improve the Freecycle experience by emailing our [https://freecycle.helpscoutdocs.com/article/149-contact-info Suggestion] box. Thank you.
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= Already a moderator? Want to get more involved with Freecycle.org? =
 +
<!--T:23-->
 
There are literally thousands of volunteers who represent the passion and commitment behind the scenes which enable The Freecycle Network™ to function as a grassroots and nonprofit gifting movement. If you feel a "volunteer calling" beyond moderating for your local group, then by all means have a look at the opportunities below. You may also contact [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org Volunteers] if you have general volunteer-related questions. Thanks for all the good you are doing and making possible!
 
There are literally thousands of volunteers who represent the passion and commitment behind the scenes which enable The Freecycle Network™ to function as a grassroots and nonprofit gifting movement. If you feel a "volunteer calling" beyond moderating for your local group, then by all means have a look at the opportunities below. You may also contact [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org Volunteers] if you have general volunteer-related questions. Thanks for all the good you are doing and making possible!
  
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== Interim Mod Team (IMod Team) == <!--T:20-->
  
== Becoming a Graphics Team Member==
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<!--T:21-->
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IMod team members work behind the scenes to keep headless groups running until new mods are recruited. Although each IMOD might moderate 50-100 groups, it's not as daunting as it sounds, as IMOD groups are fully unmoderated and member inquiries are handled by the team leaders. This is a fun, low-stress volunteer position open to current Freecycle.org moderators of all experience levels. Hours are flexible.
  
This position requires that you have graphic design abilities and a desire to help other local mods put together a nifty new graphic for their local graphics/description which incorporates our logo with nice surrounding graphics that reflect the spirit of the local community. It requires good interpersonal skills in working with local mods to figure out their wishes The time commitment varies greatly depending on your wishes to do more or less. This is a small team with creative design energy. It does not require a great deal of moderation experience. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Graphics Team]
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<!--T:22-->
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If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states ''[mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Interim Moderator Team.]''
  
== Becoming a New Group Appprover Team Member (NGA)==
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== Support Team == <!--T:30-->
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This team consists of the Freecycle.org Help Team, Spam Control and Social Media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram).
  
Each state or region has one NGA who is responsible for approving all new groups for that area. This position requires varying amounts of time depending on the area, ranging from a brief daily check-in of approximately 15 minutes a day to a half hour a day. Additionally, it requires membership in the NGA Yahoo Group as well with occasional interaction with the Group Outreach and Assistance volunteer who handles any issues of concern with group overlaps and other issues. A qualified volunteer will also possess basic geographic knowledge of the state or region in question or is adept at map reading skills and has a solid familiarity with TFN guidelines & Mod Manual. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the NGA team]
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<!--T:31-->
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The '''Help Team''' assists Freecycle members with using the Freecycle.org website, including things like forgotten passwords, difficulty logging in, and providing instructions on how to use the various functions of the website. If you enjoy solving problems and helping people (with a virtual smile), this could be the team for you. Our members are counting on the Help Team to answer their questions in a timely manner, so we ask for a commitment to checking messages at least once a day, several days a week.
  
== Becoming a Group Outreach and Assistance Team Member (GOA)==
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The '''Spam Control Team''' proactively identifies and deals with accounts that post spam or scams, as well as responding to reports of scams and spam from moderators and members. If you like detective work and have a technical bent, Spam Control could be a good fit. We are looking for a time commitment of at least two hours a week, spread out in whatever way works for you.
  
This position is usually promoted from other team positions within the Network as we've found the experience and knowledge base from these teams to be beneficial to the volunteer prior to taking on the responsibilities that come with GOA. Qualified volunteers can be an exception. Candidates for this position must be extremely tactful; have a good grasp on the written word; be friendly and insightful; be willing to devote several hours a week to the "job;" be familiar with the workings of Yahoo Groups and Yahoo Messenger; have strong problem solving and diplomatic skills. Potential volunteers for this position must have a complete understanding of the workings of TFN, its guidelines, and what is appropriate for groups and moderators. A solid familiarity with the Moderator's Manual is a strong plus. Please note that this is a time consuming position; ample time for volunteering is required. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the GOA Team]
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The '''Social Media Team''' actively promotes The Freecycle Network on the major social media platforms, as well as sharing articles on related topics such as upcycling, recycling, and climate change. If you are excited about communicating the Freecycle message to the world, we’d love to have you on the Social Media Team. We ask team members to create 1-2 new posts per week and check the social media platforms regularly to reply to messages. Experience with graphic design or social media campaigns would be greatly appreciated, but is not required.
  
== Becoming a Trademark Team Member (TM Team)==
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<!--T:32-->
This position requires a great degree of responsibility with varying time commitments depending on the specific role. Generally, you will have a great deal of experience as a Freecycle moderator before assuming a role in this team. Likely, you'll have gained experience previously in another team before doing a role here. It requires a high degree of attention to detail, and a great deal of diplomatic care in working to help educate local moderators regarding proper mark useage as well as in working with external entities. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Trademark Team]
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Participation of each of these teams gives the satisfaction of helping others and communicating with members and mods all over the world. Team Leads provide training and constant support. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states  
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[mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Support Team] and mention which team you are interesting in joining in the body of your email.
  
== Becoming an Interim Mod Team Member (IMod Team)==
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== Translator == <!--T:25-->
IMod team members work directly with local groups whose owner has left, to find and help new local moderators get started. IMods are placed either individually or in teams of two. Team vacancies are normally filled by referrals. If applying, please include at least two references that can be confirmed, such as neighboring moderators, GOA, etc.
 
  
The main goal of the IMod Team is to recruit and train new moderators for local groups. Candidates for an IMod Team position must be willing to commit 3 weeks to several months training new moderators. The ability to communicate effectively and the understanding of Freecycle guidelines is essential. The workload varies from month to month and the successful candidate could expect to be working with 2 to 20 groups in a lead or back-up capacity. Although this volunteer postition requires a significant amount of time daily, it is also a very rewarding opportunity. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Interim Moderator Team]
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<!--T:26-->
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We are always seeking enthusiastic people who are fluent in multiple languages to translate the Members FAQ and Moderators Manual from English into their own native tongue.
  
== Becoming a Media Team Member (MediaTeam)==
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<!--T:27-->
This is a team we are just starting to get off the ground. We intend to have a regular member and/or moderator newsletter as well as a waste elimination group email which collects member waste elimination ideas from other members and sends them out as an email to all members signed up for it (not just mods). A further role would be organizing our media / press room position. These positions require press/media/PR experience; perhaps good writing skills and good organizational skills. Time requirements would be pretty flexible. Not a great deal of moderating experience is required and a general knowledge of the organization is sufficient. You may have a real inspirational or didactic urge to reach out and enable positive pro-active change. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Media Team]
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If you can spare a little time each day to translate a few paragraphs, over time - your efforts would see the Members FAQ and Moderators manual in your own language. This will make it easier for you, your fellow moderators and your group members to understand what Freecycle is about and how to use the groups.
  
== Becoming a Translator (Info Team)==
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<!--T:28-->
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We are currently seeking translators for French and German, however if you can translate into any other language we are still interested in hearing from you.
  
The Info team is seeking enthusiastic people who are fluent in multiple languages to translate the Members FAQ and Moderators Manual from English into their own native tongue.
+
<!--T:29-->
 +
If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Info Team]
  
If you can spare a little time each day to translate a few paragraphs, over time - your efforts would see the Members FAQ and Moderators manual in your own language. This will make it easier for you, your fellow moderators and your group members to understand what Freecycle is about and how to use the groups.
+
== New Group Approver Team (NGA) == <!--T:16-->
 +
The NGA Team receives and processes requests from members who want to start new groups. NGA Team Members research proposed groups for viability and handle all aspects of new group setup. A qualified volunteer is adept at map reading, has an interest in geography and possesses good internet research skills. Applicants should have a solid familiarity with Freecycle.org guidelines and the Mod Manual. Because NGA team members correspond with applicants from all over the world, patience, good people skills and a sense of humor are a plus. Training is provided. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states ''[mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the NGA team]''
 +
 
 +
== Group Outreach and Assistance Team (GOA) == <!--T:17-->
 +
 
 +
<!--T:18-->
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This position is usually filled by special invitation or via promotion from other support teams, as we've found the experience and knowledge base from these teams to be beneficial to the volunteer prior to taking on the varied responsibilities that come with GOA. However, suitably qualified volunteers can be an exception, so if you feel you have the necessary skills please do get in touch.
 +
 
 +
Candidates for this position must be extremely tactful; have a good grasp of the written word; be friendly and insightful; be willing to devote several hours a week to the "job"; be fair-minded and unprejudiced; and have strong problem-solving and diplomatic skills. Potential volunteers for this position must also have a complete understanding of the workings of Freecycle.org and its guidelines, as well as an understanding of what is appropriate for groups and moderators. A solid familiarity with the Moderator's Manual is a must.
  
We are currently seeking translators for French and German, however if you can translate into any other language we are still interested in hearing from you.
+
Please note that this is a time consuming position that requires at least an hour per day. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states''[mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the GOA Team.]''
  
If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Info Team]
+
== Graphics Team == <!--T:14-->
 +
This position requires that you have graphic design abilities and a desire to help other local mods put together a nifty new graphic for their local graphics/description which incorporates our logo with nice surrounding graphics that reflect the spirit of the local community. It requires good interpersonal skills in working with local mods to figure out their wishes The time commitment varies greatly depending on your wishes to do more or less. This is a small team with creative design energy. It does not require a great deal of moderation experience. If you're interested, please send an email with a subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Graphics Team]
  
==Becoming an Info Team Member (Info Team) ==
 
This team consists of the Ambassador team, My.Freecycle.org support, the Mod Manual and the FAQs.  Also included under the info team title is the Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, Google Buzz and My Space) which has a presence on all platforms.
 
  
Assistance is needed in various areas including: helping answer member inquiries on the my.freecycle.org website and live groups; contacting mods to get them access to their groups on my.freecycle.org; editors needed to update the FAQs and Mod Manual; and all around basic assistance in the Member/Mod information areas. Depending on the area you work in, this position may require good interpersonal skills, problem solving and diplomatic skills.
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</translate>
The time commitment varies greatly depending on your wishes to do more or less and which position you work in. All areas are very rewarding and you will always have constant support. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states [mailto:volunteers@freecycle.org I want to volunteer with the Info Team]
 

Latest revision as of 14:53, 17 August 2020

Other languages:
English • ‎français • ‎Türkçe

There are literally thousands of volunteers who represent the passion and commitment behind the scenes which enable The Freecycle Network (R) to function as a grassroots and nonprofit gifting movement.

Within your local group

If you're interested in making a contribution to your community and your planet and in keeping stuff out of the local landfill, please keep reading!

Being a moderator doesn't require a lot of time but does require some dedication. There is a lot of support available. It's fun and it's a small thing that can make such a big difference.

We don't have anything tangible to give to a moderator - it's all free, right? - but it's rewarding nevertheless. You'll be keeping the Freecycle Network ticking over and ensuring usable items stay out of landfill sites to have a new lease of life.

Here are some frequently asked questions about being a moderator:

  • What does a moderator do? On a daily basis, you’ll approve or reject messages that have been flagged for moderation. As needed, you’ll respond to emails from members and calmly handle any issues or complaints that come in. You’ll keep an eye on the group and remove inappropriate posts.
  • What are the requirements for being a moderator? You should be somewhat computer savvy and have regular access to the Internet. You have a few spare minutes each day to spend moderating the group. You are tactful and have good communication skills.

Setting up a Group

First, make sure there really is no group in your area. If there is, it, of course, has priority. See here for how to check.

Once you're sure there's no local group already, see here for more details.

Share a skill

Do you have a skill you could volunteer to help Freecycle? We are always looking for help in areas such as graphics, fund-raising, and networking. Contact us with your desired volunteering position at Volunteers.

Offer ideas

Let us know what you think would improve the Freecycle experience by emailing our Suggestion box. Thank you.

Already a moderator? Want to get more involved with Freecycle.org?

There are literally thousands of volunteers who represent the passion and commitment behind the scenes which enable The Freecycle Network™ to function as a grassroots and nonprofit gifting movement. If you feel a "volunteer calling" beyond moderating for your local group, then by all means have a look at the opportunities below. You may also contact Volunteers if you have general volunteer-related questions. Thanks for all the good you are doing and making possible!

Interim Mod Team (IMod Team)

IMod team members work behind the scenes to keep headless groups running until new mods are recruited. Although each IMOD might moderate 50-100 groups, it's not as daunting as it sounds, as IMOD groups are fully unmoderated and member inquiries are handled by the team leaders. This is a fun, low-stress volunteer position open to current Freecycle.org moderators of all experience levels. Hours are flexible.

If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states I want to volunteer with the Interim Moderator Team.

Support Team

This team consists of the Freecycle.org Help Team, Spam Control and Social Media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram).

The Help Team assists Freecycle members with using the Freecycle.org website, including things like forgotten passwords, difficulty logging in, and providing instructions on how to use the various functions of the website. If you enjoy solving problems and helping people (with a virtual smile), this could be the team for you. Our members are counting on the Help Team to answer their questions in a timely manner, so we ask for a commitment to checking messages at least once a day, several days a week.

The Spam Control Team proactively identifies and deals with accounts that post spam or scams, as well as responding to reports of scams and spam from moderators and members. If you like detective work and have a technical bent, Spam Control could be a good fit. We are looking for a time commitment of at least two hours a week, spread out in whatever way works for you.

The Social Media Team actively promotes The Freecycle Network on the major social media platforms, as well as sharing articles on related topics such as upcycling, recycling, and climate change. If you are excited about communicating the Freecycle message to the world, we’d love to have you on the Social Media Team. We ask team members to create 1-2 new posts per week and check the social media platforms regularly to reply to messages. Experience with graphic design or social media campaigns would be greatly appreciated, but is not required.

Participation of each of these teams gives the satisfaction of helping others and communicating with members and mods all over the world. Team Leads provide training and constant support. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states I want to volunteer with the Support Team and mention which team you are interesting in joining in the body of your email.

Translator

We are always seeking enthusiastic people who are fluent in multiple languages to translate the Members FAQ and Moderators Manual from English into their own native tongue.

If you can spare a little time each day to translate a few paragraphs, over time - your efforts would see the Members FAQ and Moderators manual in your own language. This will make it easier for you, your fellow moderators and your group members to understand what Freecycle is about and how to use the groups.

We are currently seeking translators for French and German, however if you can translate into any other language we are still interested in hearing from you.

If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states I want to volunteer with the Info Team

New Group Approver Team (NGA)

The NGA Team receives and processes requests from members who want to start new groups. NGA Team Members research proposed groups for viability and handle all aspects of new group setup. A qualified volunteer is adept at map reading, has an interest in geography and possesses good internet research skills. Applicants should have a solid familiarity with Freecycle.org guidelines and the Mod Manual. Because NGA team members correspond with applicants from all over the world, patience, good people skills and a sense of humor are a plus. Training is provided. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that states I want to volunteer with the NGA team

Group Outreach and Assistance Team (GOA)

This position is usually filled by special invitation or via promotion from other support teams, as we've found the experience and knowledge base from these teams to be beneficial to the volunteer prior to taking on the varied responsibilities that come with GOA. However, suitably qualified volunteers can be an exception, so if you feel you have the necessary skills please do get in touch.

Candidates for this position must be extremely tactful; have a good grasp of the written word; be friendly and insightful; be willing to devote several hours a week to the "job"; be fair-minded and unprejudiced; and have strong problem-solving and diplomatic skills. Potential volunteers for this position must also have a complete understanding of the workings of Freecycle.org and its guidelines, as well as an understanding of what is appropriate for groups and moderators. A solid familiarity with the Moderator's Manual is a must.

Please note that this is a time consuming position that requires at least an hour per day. If you're interested, please send an email with the subject line that statesI want to volunteer with the GOA Team.

Graphics Team

This position requires that you have graphic design abilities and a desire to help other local mods put together a nifty new graphic for their local graphics/description which incorporates our logo with nice surrounding graphics that reflect the spirit of the local community. It requires good interpersonal skills in working with local mods to figure out their wishes The time commitment varies greatly depending on your wishes to do more or less. This is a small team with creative design energy. It does not require a great deal of moderation experience. If you're interested, please send an email with a subject line that states I want to volunteer with the Graphics Team