Giving Compass' Take:

• This GlobalGiving post explains how to find pro bono volunteers in the nonprofit world and leverage their expertise in marketing, human resources, technology, and other high-demand fields.

• While pro bono is typically used in the legal profession, it's now common among philanthropic organizations, helping match skilled people with good causes. Acquiring such talent requires a careful strategy, though.

• Here's more on how to leverage the pro bono business model for your nonprofit.

Pro bono is a Latin term that means “for the public good.” Pro bono is a common term in the legal field for lawyers donating their time, but in the last two decades it has broadened to encompass all types of “professional services that are delivered without any expectation of fee to organizations that serve the social good.” A form of skilled volunteerism, pro bono is offered in many areas, including marketing, finance, strategy, HR, and technology, among others.

According to the 2016 State of Pro Bono Service Survey, 95 percent of nonprofit professionals report that pro bono service improved their organization’s effectiveness.

Nonprofits can engage professionals for a variety of pro bono services, ranging from consultation calls to long-term projects. Below is a small sampling of projects:

  • Marketing: Branding, messaging, graphic design (logo, brochure)
  • Human Resources: Board development, employee handbook, performance management, culture coaching
  • Technology: Systems review/audit, website development
  • Finance: Auditing, earned income plan

No matter the size of your organization or the challenges you encounter, you can use the help of these skilled volunteers to tackle your projects head on.

Read the full article about must-know pro bono facts for nonprofits by Crystal Hendricks-Kretzer at GlobalGiving.