In NGO bazaar,take your pick

It was in August this year,the 17-year-old launched a website that easily enables volunteers to choose NGOs of their choice.

When Manan Hora decided to volunteer for an NGO during his summer vacation in 2012,he realised finding an NGO that suits his preferences was not easy. It was in August this year,the 17-year-old launched a website that easily enables volunteers to choose NGOs of their choice.

When I started searching for an NGO online,it turned out to be a tedious task. I realised that finding the perfect NGO in the city was time consuming, said the class XII student of R N Podar School. On interacting with NGOs later,Manan was surprised to learn that it was equally difficult for these NGOs to choose the right volunteers.

Manan conceived the idea of launching the website while participating in a global competition in February. This website,he believes,serves the purpose of both volunteers and NGOs.

The teenager has introduced a concept called virtual volunteering in his website. The world has practically gone online now. In this age,NGOs have to connect with people online to raise their funds. Virtual volunteering helps NGOs get in touch with people who can make them popular online or volunteer simply by uploading videos of teaching a lesson,making posters or even blog on a specific issue, Manan said.

Now those wanting to crusade for a social cause can do so even if they have a busy schedule, he adds. According to Manan,three volunteers have already opted for virtual volunteering.

Twenty-three causes listed in the website range from human rights to women empowerment and from animals rights to differently abled. Volunteers can choose NGOs based on their preference. A location-wise search is also provided.

Similarly NGOs,instead of conducting interviews for potential candidates,can find volunteers through the website by filling up a form listing specific requirements.

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