Research shows that opportunities for volunteering are important in education, training, and social engagement for people with disabilities. The term “inclusive volunteering” describes the service of individuals with disabilities as volunteers themselves as active members of any community.
Employers in health, education, private business, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs can consider the benefits of offering inclusive volunteer opportunities. Volunteer positions provide needed services, and support organization or community goals of inclusion; individuals gain experience.
People with disabilities can volunteer to:
- Fill temporary roles while business is expanding
- Provide staffing for internal/external events
- Perform essential tasks that support paid staff
- Support staff during periods of peak sales or activities
Source: Marková, A. (2018). The “inclusive volunteering” phenomenon: Research into the volunteering of people with disabilities. Kontakt.
Learn More About Inclusive Volunteering
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The Arc
Offers many opportunities for people with disabilities to volunteer and participate in the community.
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TED TALK: Inclusive Career Placement for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Volunteering is a layered opportunity: as a first step to gain work and social experience, and for volunteer to learn about a career or organization from the inside.
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Strategies for Creating a More Inclusive Volunteer Program
Results from a recent research study by the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration offer 8 strategies as a starting point to support organizations engage volunteers from diverse and immigrant communities.