Volunteering is often thought of as an altruistic activity that demands selflessness and for which there are no tangible gains. However, while there is an altruistic impulse behind volunteering, there is also much to be gained through volunteer work. The benefits enjoyed by volunteers and the communities in which they commit themselves to working abound. They include skill-building, networking and mentoring. Volunteer experience can make the difference when it comes to getting a job, developing solidarity within groups and encouraging people to feel invested in the well-being of their own communities.

TakingITGlobal and Nabuur are joining forces to bring you an exciting three-month initiative aimed at raising awareness on the rich world of On-line Volunteering. We are kick-starting this partnership with this special edition of Panorama Zine. If you are currently an on-line volunteer or have volunteered on-line in the past, on TIG or elsewhere, this is a great opportunity to share your thoughts on and experiences of the rewards of volunteering with the TIG community. You are also invited to submit writing on other volunteering-related subjects. We are continuing to accept submissions through the month of October, so to submit your article, click here.