University of Wisconsion - Eau Claire

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Proposal

Volunteer Platform Researcher

15 hours

Community partner: Inspiring Service
Supervisor: Jess Beutler
Beginning date:
2025-05-28
Ending Date:
2025-09-01

Service-Learning Proposal Description

1.

Briefly describe the project and the community need to be addressed.

Answer Many individuals want to volunteer but struggle to find the right entry points—especially in smaller towns or underserved areas. Meanwhile, local and national volunteer platforms are filled with opportunities—but often go unnoticed due to low visibility. Ways to Connect was created to bridge that gap—not by duplicating what already exists, but by helping people find the platforms and resources that are already out there. This project supports the development of Ways to Connect, a new national guide helping people find the best local websites for discovering volunteer opportunities in their community. Students will research and improve individual community pages by identifying local volunteer centers, grassroots networks, and relevant online platforms. Their work will help make these pathways more visible and accessible to the public. Inspiring Service, a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening volunteer ecosystems, hosts this project and maintains the Ways to Connect platform.

2.

What is the mission of the agency or organization?

Answer Inspiring Service is dedicated to building strong volunteer communities by connecting individuals with meaningful opportunities to give back. Our mission is to empower volunteers and amplify the reach of local nonprofits by improving access to volunteer opportunities—especially through digital tools and platforms like Ways to Connect.

3.

What skills are required for this project? 

Answer Strong online research skills, attention to detail, ability to work independently, comfort using web forms and Google Sheets. Curiosity about community service, civic tech, or nonprofit work is key! No prior technical experience is required; workflow guidance and examples will be provided.

4.

What are the objectives for the student learning and service?

Answer Students will gain hands-on experience in civic-focused research and digital engagement, build awareness of volunteer infrastructure and nonprofit ecosystems, strengthen skills in information gathering, critical thinking, and content creation, contribute directly to a public resource that improves access to volunteering nationwide, and explore the intersection of technology, civic engagement, and community building.

5.

What are the availability requirements for the student?

Answer Volunteer any time, anywhere! This project is highly flexible, allowing students to volunteer remotely at their own pace, making it an ideal opportunity to balance with academic and personal commitments.

6.

Additional information (not required).

Answer Students will see their work go live on a national platform and be credited for their contributions if desired.
Center for Service-Learning • Old Library 2100 • University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire • Eau Claire WI 54702-4004
A Unit of: Advising, Retention + Career Center
Phone: 715-836-4649 • Fax: 715-836-4023
Questions/Comments: srvlearn@uwec.edu
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