Are you ready to use your GIS and geospatial expertise to help communities in need?
GISCorps matches qualified volunteers with organizations worldwide to provide short-term GIS services where they are needed most. Project types run the gamut from teaching GIS in developing countries to developing web mapping applications for nonprofits to geolocating photos of damage following a natural disaster. Some projects involve travel to the partner organization’s location, while many others can be completed remotely.
Joining GISCorps means you’ll be notified of volunteer opportunities that match your skills. It’s then up to you to apply for the opportunities that match your interests and schedule. Click here to learn more about our amazing volunteers!
Applying to become a GISCorps volunteer can only be done by filling out our online form. Once you complete the application and accept our Code of Conduct and our General Policies, you should receive an automated confirmation email.
You will also begin receiving our quarterly newsletter, periodic announcements, and recruitment notifications for projects that match your skills and qualifications.
Please note that anyone with GIS skills may join; there is no minimum level of education or experience required.
Updating your volunteer profile
You can update your profile at any time by clicking the custom Update Your Profile link provided in the footer of all of our email communications, including the automated confirmation email you receive when you initially sign up as a GISCorps volunteer. Keeping your volunteer profile up to date (especially your location and skills) ensures that you will be notified of all the volunteer opportunities you are eligible to apply for.
Volunteer assignments
Unfortunately, GISCorps cannot guarantee a volunteer assignment to every GISCorps volunteer. As new projects become available, our role is to supply the best qualified candidates for the task at hand. If your qualifications match the skills needed and you are interested and available for the duration of the project, you may apply as a candidate. We then interview applicants and pass the top candidates to the requesting organization. Some postings are very competitive.
If you’re selected to volunteer for a position, you’ll work directly with the partner organization. We’ll check in with you for monthly updates, and at the conclusion of the project, we’ll expect you to report your hours and write a brief article for this website. In the article, you’ll describe your contributions and the outcome of your project (you can see previous project reports here). For further information about rights, privileges, and privacy issues, please refer to our General Policies.
Other ways for GISCorps volunteers to stay involved
- Sign up for the GIS Service Pledge by bringing us your own project and qualifying for a free Esri home-use license;
- Contribute to the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team projects;
- Share your experiences with GISCorps at conferences and meetings;
- Spread the word to your favorite non-profits and let them know how to request qualified volunteers;
- and of course, we always welcome donations to help us cover basic operating expenses.