VolunteerMatch + Idealist Merger FAQ 

Why are Idealist and VolunteerMatch merging?

The merger of Idealist and VolunteerMatch creates a union of nonprofit technology leaders that will support growth and innovation to meet the needs of individuals, nonprofits and socially responsible corporations. With combined decades of experience, the newly merged organization will have the talent and resources to create the world’s most powerful platform that empowers people to take action for social good.

What will the newly merged organization be called?

As Idealist and VolunteerMatch join forces, the merged organization will be known as Idealist. Organizations and individuals will be able to continue to access the platform at Idealist.org and VolunteerMatch.org, as well as through their respective API and syndication partners.  

 Who will lead the new organization?

Ami Dar, Founder and Executive Director of Idealist, will lead the united nonprofit organization.  VolunteerMatch board members Meg Garlinghouse and Chris Masto will join the Idealist board.

What is the vision for the future of the newly merged organization?

The goal for the newly merged nonprofit organization is unity and innovation, bringing together our members, clients, and supporters. As the leading nonprofit leaders in using technology to empower people to take action for social good, we will be able to leverage our integrated platform to:

• Bring people with a desire to make a difference many more opportunities and a global reach
• Offer a deeper talent pool for nonprofits searching for staff or volunteers
• Provide more support and faster innovation for all of the other constituents and partners we serve

How and why did the merger come about?

Our organizations have long known of and respected one another and we have long discussed how we might work together. We are thrilled that the timing seemed right now for the organizations to take the next step together in this merger. Read more about our partnership that began in 2020 to make it easier for nonprofits to easily post opportunities on one site and be featured on both.

When will the merger be final?

The merger was publicly announced on January 14, 2025 and pending regulatory notices, will take effect in the first quarter of 2025.

Where will the organization be based/headquartered?

The newly merged organization will be a global, remote-first organization, similar to the way both Idealist and VolunteerMatch operate today.

Is there an integration plan in place?

We have an integration plan in progress. The integration will take time and we will communicate further as the plan evolves. We are committed to continuing to serve all of our community members and clients.  VolunteerMatch will continue to communicate with our users through e-newsletters, our website, social media and volunteer Opp Alerts as we have updates on the transition.

Can I still access my account in the same way?

Yes, as of today nothing changes in the way we partner together.  Posting and searching on VolunteerMatch remains free of charge and you do not need to register to browse and search volunteer opportunities.  Nonprofits do not need to take any new actions to ensure your account or postings remain active.  Over the next few months our team will ensure a smooth transition as we integrate our organizations. We will communicate updates as they are available.  

Who do I call for customer support?

Continue to contact both Idealist and VolunteerMatch customer support in the same way that you do today.  Your accounts will remain separate, you do not need to take action but are welcome to check out Idealist to familiarize yourself with their platform.  As updates are made you will have plenty of advance notice and support.

What will happen to the VolunteerMatch platform and services?

Following the merger, the combined organization will continue to support all of its current constituents with the core capabilities they have today. Organizations and individuals will be able to continue to access the platform at Idealist.org and VolunteerMatch.org, as well as through their respective API and syndication partners.  Approved organizations can continue posting on VolunteerMatch for free.  (It is free to post volunteer opportunities on Idealist as well). Nonprofit paid services like Pro Membership, Group/Affiliate Pro Membership, National Listings, Multizip and promotional services will remain unchanged as we take time to build an integrated platform.  We will continue to work with our workplace giving software partners to power their volunteering modules.