V S N

The Volunteer Search Network

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Becoming a VSN Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in the Volunteer Search Network (VSN).

VSN volunteers only provide tasks up to their comfort and knowledge levels. The most common task would be searching your library's Cole or Polk Criss-Cross directories. Volunteers should be able to give basic information on searching in their state. One big area of help is to familiarize yourself with your state's laws. If you need help in this, please let me know and I will refer you to someone, or visit the US Adoption Laws link from the VSN Resources page.

As a volunteer you will be added to the VSN Mail list. This is where the requests for search help will come from. Requests are sent to the mail list by region. There are four US regions, Canada, and other International. You will only receive mail specific to your area unless you choose otherwise. The requests will be labeled by region, state, and city to make it easy for you to distinguish who you can help. Just delete all other requests. It is requested when replying to someone needing assistance that you cc the list so other volunteers know and do not duplicate efforts.

There is also a "general" topic available for general discussions with other list members.

I try to put out a Search Tip articles to all the volunteers on a regular basis. Articles are re-sent to the list frequently to keep the members refreshed.

Now with all that out of the way, if you are still interested in volunteering, please fill out the below form. If you have already sent me some information please fill out the form to ensure I have up-to-date and complete information. Thank you.

Thank you,
Mary Conklin
Volunteer Search Network Coordinator