Wellington social enterprise launches web app for volunteers

Collaborate, a new social enterprise web app connecting volunteers with volunteering opportunities is launching on October 25 with a group of 300 beta testers.

The four-lady power-team won the BNZ Startup Alley and Rotary Kickstart runner-up prizes during the co-design phase of the app earlier this year.

While volunteering for multiple organisations over the last five years, director Holly Norton developed the concept with co-founders.

"We found the volunteering process cumbersome, so we decided to design an easy solution to find opportunities that line up with your skills and interests - one that allows you to earn rewards for your volunteering efforts," says Norton.

Since 2015, hundreds of people from community organisations, volunteers and changemakers have shaped the Collaborate app.

Through brainstorms, hackathons, design sprints, surveys, in-depth user testing and hundreds of coffees their ideas and inspiration have aimed to create a movement.

A movement of people passionate about connection, and an app that brings them together.

Community organisations can post a specific task on the app, ranging from things such as a short-term graphic design project to a social media campaign.

Then they can connect instantly with skilled volunteers who indicate interest.

The app will also feature practical opportunities to help out such as beach cleanups and tree planting.

Collaborate was founded on three core values – that community is at the heart of everything, everyone has a skill that can make a difference, and doing good should be easy and fun.

As the company is currently participating in Te Papa's Mahuki programme, the initial launch will apply only to Wellington-based opportunities, with a view to rolling out the app nationally.

Norton says she can't wait to see the difference Collaborate will make.

"The app is an easy way for people to get involved in their communities and create positive social change. It also builds the experience of volunteers and capacity of organisations.

Collaborate launches Wellington-based and online volunteer roles on 25 October at 3pm.