Volunteer Opportunities
Our volunteers are what make
our organization remarkable
VOLUNTEER THROUGH WOCN TODAY!
There are so many ways you can use your skills to direct patient care, support fellow colleagues, build your leadership skills, and most importantly, transform care for individuals with wound, ostomy, and continence related issues.
We become stronger every time a member chooses to share their time, skills, and expertise.
Volunteer opportunities are now open and listed below, providing various ways to get involved throughout the year. Volunteering offers a great way to enhance your leadership skills, expand your professional network, and earn Professional Growth Points (PGPs). Explore the opportunities available and get involved with the WOCN Society today!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
ABSTRACT MENTORS
Purpose
Serve as a mentor advising and guiding WOCN members in writing an abstract for submission to WOCNext or revising an abstract draft for improvement and following instructions. Many of those receiving mentorship have been successful in having their abstract accepted. Mentors typically mentor 1 member and can indicate if they have availability to mentor 2 members. Timing is usually between September and November (period of call for abstracts). Instructions and review criteria for abstracts are available annually on the WOCN website for reference.
Eligibility Criteria
- Experience writing successful abstracts for WOCN or other professional organizations
- Knowledge of WOC specialty
- Preferred: Experience as an abstract reviewer or mentor for abstract writing is helpful
Abstract Reviewers
Purpose
- Serves as a blind reviewer for abstract submissions for the WOCNext conference.
- Able to review 12-20 assigned abstracts using an online system within specific 2 week period (training and rating criteria provided).
Eligibility Criteria
- Current certification from the WOCNCB
- Experience working as a specialty nurse
- PhD and research experience reviewing research abstracts
- PREFERRED: Experience as poster presenter or reviewer
Education Committee - DEADLINE: APRIL 30
Purpose
Members of the Education Committee (i.e. nurse planners and content experts) oversee all aspects of the WOCN Society’s Continuing Education Center (CEC). Education Committee work includes monitoring, recommending, developing, implementing, and evaluating educational opportunities. The Education Committee works closely with the Society and National Office staff to ensure that educational content is in compliance with the ANCC’s guidelines for accredited providers of CNE.
Eligibility Criteria
Individuals serving on the Education Committee must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Active member of the WOCN Society
- Bachelor of Science in nursing degree or higher
- Current RN licensure
It is desired that at least half of the committee members hold a tri-specialty certification (CWOCN) from the WOCNCB. Remaining committee members must hold single- or dual-specialty certification from the WOCNCB.
Deadline to Apply: Wednesday, April 30.
JWOCN Ostomy Section Editor
The Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing (JWOCN) is seeking an Ostomy Section Editor to join the Editorial Board.
Qualifications:
- A clinical and/or research/scholarly focus on ostomy care (preferably both).
- Publications in the Peer Reviewed Literature including at least 2 prior publications in JWOCN.
- Certification by the WOCNCB or comparable certifying body (i.e. CNA licensure board) OR licensure/certification as APRN or at least 5 years practicing in the area of ostomy care.
- Candidate must practice in the United States of America or Canada.
- Educational preparation on the Master’s or Doctoral level.
- WOCN membership is preferred, not required.
Responsibilities:
- Evaluate reviews for section manuscripts and submit recommendations to the Editor-in-Chief.
- Provide WOC Consult features on a rotating basis.
- Actively solicit manuscripts for the JWOCN.
- Maintain regular communications with the JWOCN Editorial Board and attend meetings (twice a year).
Membership Engagement Committee
Purpose
This committee plays a pivotal role in enhancing the member experience, fostering connections, and ensuring that our community continues to thrive and grow. As a committee member, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop and implement strategies to increase member involvement.
- Organize events, activities, and programs that engage members and build stronger relationships.
- Provide valuable feedback to the national leadership on how we can better serve our community.
- Collaborate with like-minded individuals to create a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment for all members.
- Earn 10 PGP points per year, build your personal brand, and demonstrate your commitment to professional and personal development.
Qualifications
- Current member of the WOCN Society.
- Enthusiasm for supporting and growing our membership community.
- Willingness to contribute ideas and time to enhance member engagement.
- Open communication and team collaboration skills.
BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING
Adding your volunteer experience—as its own section—to your resume or CV can be a smart and strategic move. While it can help build your resume if you lack professional experience, it also allows you to showcase your most
valuable asset—time! Volunteering your time is evidence that you’re committed to professional and personal development.
Some additional benefits include:
- Professional development: Serving as a volunteer in an organization demonstrates that you possess knowledge and experience specific to your field. It enables you to build your personal brand while also increasing your value as a professional.
- Professional growth: Not only can you hone transferable skills, but you can grow your expertise outside of your current skill set.
- Networking: Volunteering exposes you to people you may not meet otherwise, allowing you to network with a more diverse group of like-minded individuals.
Thinking of Becoming a Member?
Learn the benefits of joining and about our membership types.