This web page is focused on the #2 kind of assistance, in virtual volunteering contexts, but it's worth noting that development can mean activities that create relief/aid/comfort on an ongoing basis, not just at one feel-good event. If you created a permanent food bank so people could donate food and others in need could receive it, you would be engaging in BOTH kinds of volunteering. Also, don't think that there are strict borders between these two kinds of volunteering if you volunteered to lead the creation of a program that trains volunteers to help in disaster relief, you would be engaging in BOTH kinds of volunteering. Some situations call for approach #1, and some call for approach #2. #2 changes things long-term it changes people's behavior or changes how people think about something or helps people to not need emergency aid any more or helps create a service or program that can be mobilized quickly to help in emergency situations, as needed.
That is not a bad approach sometimes, that's exactly what's needed most in a moment, such as in the case of immediately after a disaster. #1 usually doesn't change anything long-term, nor create a widespread or sustainable change - it helps just in an immediate moment.
If you are a program that intends to oversee online volunteers involved in high impact virtual volunteering roles, you should consider purchasing this book. This book, available for purchase, is for both organizations new to virtual volunteering and organizations already involving online volunteers who want to improve or expand their programs. The Last Virtual Volunteering Guidebook available This page is for people seeking ideas for an online project that will mobilize online volunteers and lead to a sustainable, lasting benefit to a community or cause, particularly for a community or audience that is at-risk or under-served. Ideas for High Impact Virtual Volunteering Activities Ideas for High Impact Virtual Volunteering Activities Why should you trust the information on this web page?