Virtual volunteerism.  Is that just as valid as showing up in person and doing the job in the company others?  In March, I highlight the job of volunteer editor for the Wazee Journal (www.wazeejournal.org) which is an online literary magazine dedicated to new, independent writing. 

In this role, I am priviledged to read up close accounts, true stories, about the author's most intimate and personal life experiences.  I read hundreds of submissions over the course of a year.  The e-zine is published semi-annually and submissions are received daily.   The journal attracts first-class talent.  If you are a writer, interested in submitting, read on.

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When I read Ed Gutierrez’s story “The Memory of Loss”, I was moved to immediately respond with acceptance for publication in the Wazee Journal (www.wazeejournal.org).  The submission was received just days before the deadline. Upon second read I knew I must act fast.  A piece like this is a rarity in a world where nonfiction authors notoriously write in excruciating detail about their latest surgery, or similarly, about a hospital experience. 

Second to adventures in ill-health are stories of death, dying, and grieving.  “Memory” was similarly themed however unique in circumstance.  Ed Gutierrez told a candid, personal story of New Year’s horror when his family discovered the murder-suicide of mother and brother. 

Typically, as an editor, I like to veer away from the standard nonfiction fare.  Humor is always a favorite of mine.  And, Steve Heim’s Firewood Guy made me laugh out loud. 

Cara Lopez Lee’s No Travel Romances and Dedale W.R.’s A Lesson in Love both weave two distinctly different tales of love.   Dedale teaches English to girls in Juvenile Hall.  Global trekker Cara, author of They Only Eat Their Husbands, sets the scene in Thailand where she reveals a failed hook-up attempt.

HOW TO FIND A VIRTUAL VOLUNTEER GIG

People engaged in virtual volunteering can find a wide-range of local and international activities to devote themselves to.  My favorite resource is VolunteerMatch.com.  Here are some ideas of the tasks that volunteers can perform virtually:

• Translation – either live (via Skype) or written word
• Research – on a variety of topics
• Web Design and Webmaster – creating and maintaining web content
• Writing and editing – crafting proposals, press releases, newsletter articles, social media posts on Twitter, Facebook, etc.
• Lesson planning - developing material for a curriculum
• Computer-related work – database entry or creation and maintenance
• Graphic design
• Advise – experts in their fields can share their knowledge
• Teach – as a mentor or tutor, help with homework and learning
• Moderate – become active in a favorite online community
• And the list goes on and on.

AUTHORS, POETS, ARTISTS

Interested in subscribing to the Wazee Journal and submitting your work?  Check out the website at www.wazeejournal.org.