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A New Era for Social Good: Idealist and VolunteerMatch Unite

In an exciting development for those passionate about making a difference, the two nonprofits, Idealist and VolunteerMatch, have officially merged. Announced on September 8, 2025, this integration promises to enhance the way individuals engage with social causes by consolidating resources, opportunities, and tools into one comprehensive platform.

The Journey Begins

Idealist has long been a beacon for individuals seeking ways to contribute positively to the world. Founded in 1995, it offers a vast array of opportunities from full-time jobs to volunteering, helping millions connect with their local communities and organizations needing support. VolunteerMatch, known for its innovative approach to connecting volunteers with nonprofits, brings additional strength to this partnership.

The merger process, which started back in January, aimed to unify the strengths of both organizations to create a more powerful tool for social action. As Ami Dar, the Executive Director of Idealist, noted, "Combining two nonprofits has been a fascinating and complex journey. I cannot wait for our community and anyone with a passion for social impact to join us on this new platform."

A Unified Platform for Action

With both platforms now integrated, users can access this single resource at idealist.org. The comprehensive nature of the site allows individuals not only to find jobs and volunteer opportunities but also to attend events that promote positive social change. Nonprofit organizations can share more about their missions, effectively broaden their outreach and connect with a wider audience.

This innovative platform aims to facilitate easy entry points for all who wish to engage in community service, regardless of their available time commitment. From full-time jobs to one-time volunteer engagements, Idealist promotes a culture of giving back.

New Features to Enhance User Experience

To celebrate the completion of this merger, Idealist is planning new initiatives to inspire action. One such initiative is the launch of Idealist Days, which encourages global participation on specific dates associated with social action, such as 9/9 or 10/10. These monthly days provide a moment for volunteers to come together, whether through informal gatherings or volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits.

This focus on collective action is crucial in today’s world, where disconnection and isolation are prevalent. Bob Giannino, chair of Idealist’s board of directors, emphasized the importance of technology in fostering connections: "In this time of strife and separation, technology that brings us together is critical for our collective future."

Continuation of VolunteerMatch's Legacy

Idealist aims to honor VolunteerMatch's successful legacy in the social-impact technology space by continuing to innovate tools that benefit nonprofits and socially responsible businesses. Efforts to expand volunteer opportunities into various online spaces will help match individuals with meaningful engagement avenues, whether it's on corporate intranets or community networks.

Through this merger, Idealist has set the stage for a collaborative and impactful future, where anyone eager to contribute can find the resources they need. As the platform evolves, it will undoubtedly continue to inspire action and foster connections that create a lasting impact locally and globally.

In conclusion, this merger signifies a significant step forward in the quest for social good. With Idealist and VolunteerMatch united, a brighter, more connected future awaits for those looking to make the world a better place.