#United States #New York #Idealist #VolunteerMatch #Society

Idealist and VolunteerMatch Merger: A New Era for Social Good

In a groundbreaking move, Idealist and VolunteerMatch, two prominent nonprofits known for leveraging technology to promote social good, have announced their merger. This union aims to create a transformative platform that connects individuals and nonprofits to magnify their collective impact on communities around the globe.

Idealist, founded in 1995, has been a leader in helping people find full-time jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities, fostering connections among neighbors to address pressing local issues. On the other hand, VolunteerMatch, established in 1998, has become the largest network connecting nonprofits with volunteers, simplifying the process of engagement through its website and partners.

Over the years, both organizations have significantly impacted the nonprofit sector. They have collectively linked over 250,000 organizations to more than 40 million individuals, facilitating billions in social impact. Their approach has included numerous educational opportunities, webinars, and career fairs that have engaged hundreds of thousands eager to make a difference.

With the merger, Idealist will retain its name and continue to operate under the leadership of its founder, Ami Dar. Dar expressed enthusiasm about the merger, stating, "VolunteerMatch has been a pioneer in online volunteer recruitment while Idealist has helped many find meaningful careers in the nonprofit arena. Together, we will combine our strengths to create a single platform that serves everyone—nonprofits, volunteers, and corporations alike."

The merger is projected to be finalized by the first quarter of 2025, pending necessary regulatory approvals. Despite this organizational shift, individuals and organizations can still access both Idealist.org and VolunteerMatch.org, ensuring a seamless transition for all users.

This collaboration not only promises to expand the reach of both nonprofits, providing volunteers with more opportunities than ever before, but also increases the talent pool available for organizations in need of dedicated staff or volunteers. For nonprofits, this means enhanced support and faster innovation in addressing community challenges.

VolunteerMatch’s Board Chair, Robert Savage, expressed optimism regarding the merger's potential. He noted, "By merging these two platforms, we will build a formidable network that provides greater resources and innovative solutions to those dedicated to making a positive impact," highlighting the benefits of a united approach in an increasingly interconnected world.

Idealist Board Member Bob Giannino emphasized the importance of this union during a time when many seek ways to contribute to meaningful change. He stated, "This merger will simplify the path for individuals to take action, especially when so many are yearning for social change."

As part of the integration process, two VolunteerMatch board members, Meg Garlinghouse and Chris Masto, will have seats on the Idealist board, marking a significant step toward blending leadership and vision for the future. Garlinghouse, who serves as Vice President of Social Impact at LinkedIn, and Masto, an investor and advisor to growth companies, bring valuable insights into expanding the nonprofits' reach and effectiveness.

Both organizations have committed to continuing their programs and initiatives while enhancing their collaborative efforts towards driving social progress. Idealist has been actively closing the gap between intent and action for nearly three decades by connecting millions with meaningful opportunities across 180 countries, and VolunteerMatch has played an essential role in empowering individuals to serve inspired causes since its inception.

In conclusion, Idealist and VolunteerMatch’s merger signifies a compelling new chapter in their history, aspiring to raise the bar for social impact through innovative technology. This partnership is poised to enhance how individuals and organizations come together for the greater good, fostering a culture of service that inspires everyone to contribute in diverse and impactful ways. As they move forward, both nonprofits will undoubtedly continue to serve as vital engines driving change in the nonprofit landscape.