My Nonprofit Reviews
retiredguy
Review for Global Links, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
Started out just knowing they distributed surplus medical supplies. Found out about the flip-side (environmental stewardship) later. It only reinforced my respect for a well-run agency. They have staying power as evidenced by the quality of young people they attract -- as staff, volunteers. Will continue to give my support as long into my retirement as I am able. Go Global Links. You Rock!
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Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
Review for Global Links, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
I wanted to contribute to the work of local non-profits and foundations reaching out to the developing world and responding to disasters. One large foundation did not seem to need/want any volunteers. Not so with Global Links. They welcomed me with open arms and quickly responded to my inquiry. I was able to sort, package and pack donated medical supplies at their office. This was several years ago and I was still working full time. I did not fully realize the scope of Global Links' Mission until the Haiti Earthquake. Since I am now retired I was able to volunteer more often and attend a session on their mission. It was only then that I realized that recycling and assessing environmental impact was almost as essential to their Mission as the Medical Equipment and Supplies they shipped. In fact, I realized that they have a DUAL MISSION: SAVING LIVES BY SALVAGING WHAT OTHERS THROW AWAY. They walk the walk which is obvious by watching how they operate their office and operations. Every possible opportunity for recycling waste is utilized. They incorporate environmental strategy into their assessment of what clinics and hospitals they serve actually need and do not use any "shotgun" approach. Rather it is "surgical" (pun intended) and precise -- to try to fill specific needs. They realize that they lack massive resources to fill great needs. But by only collecting/salvaging the equipment and supplies that are needed and can be used, they are reducing waste on both ends of the transaction. And, saving lives in the process. I will always support this organization. What a simple and productive Mission. And such hard workers
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Volunteering. Being educated in its Mission. Watching a video of the difference their work makes in people's lives.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Increase their outreach in order to increase donations in order to further their Mission.
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
The spirit evidenced by the volunteers and staff. They want to do everything they can and contribute in as many ways as possible. E.G. by recycling absolutely everything they can and taking every opportunity to reduce waste in their entire ops.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Very energetic and enthusiastic. They have been doing this for over 20 years and are committed and dedicated.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Intensify it's Methods in carrying out their dual Mission. They could get their message out to a wider audience; travel more to their beneficiaries to better understand their needs and better target their efforts. Also reward their staff and expand.
Ways to make it better...
There were no negatives that I experienced. This is not being facetious. I cannot honestly think of anything that the staff could do to make volunteers feel more welcome or valued.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Limited resources in terms of funding and fund-raising.
One thing I'd also say is that...
Not really, I've said it already
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
