Volunteering PDUs: Give Back to the Profession
Contribute to the project management profession through volunteer work. Whether you're volunteering with PMI chapters or non-profit organizations, your service can earn you Giving Back PDUs.
What Qualifies as Volunteering?
Volunteering activities involve contributing your project management skills and time to benefit the profession or community. This can include:
- PMI Chapter Volunteering: Serving in leadership roles, organizing events, or supporting chapter activities
- Non-Profit Project Management: Applying PM skills to help non-profit organizations
- Community Service: Using project management expertise for community benefit
- Professional Organizations: Volunteering with PMI or other professional associations
PMI Chapter Volunteering
One of the most common ways to earn Volunteering PDUs is through your local PMI chapter. Chapters always need volunteers for various activities:
Leadership Roles
- Chapter board positions
- Committee chairs
- Event coordinators
- Membership coordinators
Event Support
- Organizing chapter meetings
- Coordinating workshops
- Managing registration
- Speaker coordination
Getting Started
Non-Profit Project Management
You can also earn Volunteering PDUs by applying your project management skills to help non-profit organizations. This might include:
- Project Planning: Helping non-profits plan and execute projects
- Process Improvement: Streamlining operations or improving efficiency
- Event Management: Organizing fundraisers, community events, or awareness campaigns
- Strategic Planning: Assisting with organizational strategy and planning
PDU Limits and Requirements
PDU Calculation
Check the PMI Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) Handbook for specific PDU limits for your certification type and volunteer activity.
Documentation Requirements
To claim Volunteering PDUs, you'll need to provide documentation such as:
- Records of volunteer hours (dates, duration, activities)
- Letters of recognition or thank-you notes from organizations
- Meeting minutes or event documentation
- Project documentation (for non-profit PM work)
- Certificates of appreciation or service
- Photos or other evidence of volunteer activities
Finding Volunteer Opportunities
PMI Chapters
Visit the PMI website to find your local chapter and contact them about volunteer opportunities. Most chapters have regular volunteer needs.
Non-Profit Organizations
Reach out to local non-profits and offer your project management expertise. Many organizations need help with planning, organizing events, or improving processes.
Professional Networks
Check with your professional network or LinkedIn groups for volunteer opportunities. Many organizations post volunteer needs on social media or professional platforms.
How to Claim Volunteering PDUs
Step 1: Find Opportunities
Identify volunteer opportunities that align with your skills and interests. Contact PMI chapters or non-profit organizations.
Step 2: Track Your Hours
Keep detailed records of all volunteer activities, including dates, duration, and specific tasks performed.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
Collect all relevant documentation: volunteer records, letters of recognition, project documentation, etc.
Step 4: Submit Your Claim
Log into PMI.org, navigate to CCR, and submit your claim with all required documentation.
Start Volunteering
Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the profession while earning PDUs. Consider reaching out to your local PMI chapter or non-profit organizations to find opportunities that match your skills.