If you are a freelance writer and are looking to give back to the community, a great way is to offer your writing services as a volunteer. There are plenty of opportunities for you to make a difference in lives through your writing and writing for free can be one of them. Below, we list some ways for you to find volunteer work as a freelance writer.
Plenty of charities require good writers to create copy for them. This can include brochures, fliers, marketing letters, advertisements, short stories and inspirational books. These organizations do not work for profit and so are not able to pay good rates for services or are unable to pay anything at all. Basically, the work done is dependent entirely on the kindness of others. It is easy to see how they are making a difference so working for them is a good way to earn some good karma. Approach the person in charge, introduce yourself and tell them about what you do for a living and that you would like to help. They would be delighted to receive your help.
Plenty of organizations looking for volunteer writers advertise on the popular freelancing websites. Search for jobs in the appropriate section and ones that are appropriate for your experience level. Approach the proposal like any other except that you will not mention price. Instead, make sure you mention that you are offering your services as a volunteer. Provide great samples of your previous works and be engaging in your proposal. It is often a good idea to research the company you are applying to so when you prepare your proposal, you are writing along lines that will impress the decision maker.
Quite apart from charitable pursuits, other types of volunteer freelance writing also exist. Writers looking to get a start in the industry often write for free but in return for a byline or a good review. This helps them gain valuable experience as well as some material for their portfolio. Employers that provide this sort of jobs advertise them through the usual channels described above. Similarly, businesses that are just starting up may require volunteer writers that they cannot pay at the moment due to costs. However, they are willing to provide good references and a recurring role as a long term writer.