Online Volunteering, A Way to Reduce Health Inequalities: A Review Study

Volunteering is a way for community participation and involving local social capital. Volunteering has the potential to enhance well-being and reduce health inequalities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of online volunteering on people’s well-being and the reduction of inequalities. Methods: In this narrative review, using related keywords, 326 studies were found in the initial search in PubMed, Sage, Springer, Google Scholar, Elsevier, PsycINFO and finally 57 studies were selected for review. Results: The study found that virtual volunteering in organizations is a combination of offline and online volunteering, and fewer volunteers are online volunteers. One of the main features of online volunteering is the maximum use of time, and the reduction of travel time. This type of volunteering can be done 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Online volunteering can involve all people, including young people, the elderly, people with disabilities and disadvantaged groups and minorities. One of the main benefits of this type of volunteering is that many people who cannot attend the organization can participate in this way. Online volunteering also could reduce the discrimination and health inequalities. . Conclusion: Although online volunteering is developing globally, volunteerbased organizations have not yet adopted their strategies, rules, and procedures for new volunteers. It seems online volunteering will also enable different groups to participate in activities and promote the health of different groups