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Prospect Research Volunteer - Rainbow Railroad

Toronto, Ontario

Volunteer Role Posting: Prospect Research Volunteer

About Rainbow Railroad

Rainbow Railroad is a global charitable organization that envisions a world where LGBTQI+ people are free to live with dignity and without fear of persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. Our mission is to help at-risk LGBTQI+ individuals get to safety and to build lives free from violence and discrimination.

Since 2006, we have rallied the support of human rights defenders, governments, donors, volunteers, agencies and organizations, and people with lived refugee expertise to assist over 13,000 LGBTQI+ individuals find safety through multiple relocation pathways and other forms of assistance. As we continue to grow, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the queer liberation movement and its transformative impact on people’s quality of life. 

Rainbow Railroad is a USA 501(c)(3) organization and a registered Canadian charity with offices in New York and Toronto.

The Volunteer Role

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Prospect Research Volunteer to support the Development team in preparation for an upcoming fundraising campaign. This role involves conducting research on potential influencer and celebrity partners, identifying international LGBTQI+ events for potential collaborations, and supporting data entry in Rainbow Railroad’s case management system (Salesforce).

This position can be completed remotely (Canada or U.S.) or on-site at our Toronto office, approximately 5 hours per week.

Volunteer Duties

  • Research potential influencers and celebrities aligned with Rainbow Railroad’s mission

  • Assess engagement history in LGBTQI+ advocacy and fundraising campaigns

  • Compile a detailed prospect list with relevant background and contact information

  • Research international LGBTQI+ events (e.g., festivals, conferences, pride celebrations) for partnership opportunities

  • Record and organize findings to support campaign planning and strategy

  • Enter and update records in Salesforce, ensuring data accuracy and consistency

  • Assist with additional administrative and research-related tasks as needed

Volunteer Responsibilities

  • Be punctual and reliable in your volunteer duties

  • Communicate proactively about availability or concerns

  • Participate in training and team meetings as required

  • Respect organizational confidentiality and boundaries of the volunteer role

  • Work collaboratively with Rainbow Railroad staff and volunteers

  • Adhere to all relevant policies and procedures

Your Qualifications

Personal Skills

  • Positive, collaborative, and resourceful mindset

  • Strong research, writing, and organizational skills

  • Creativity and ability to think outside the box

  • Fluent in English (additional languages are an asset)

  • Experience working in multicultural or international environments

  • Team-oriented with the ability to work independently

Requirements

  • Proficiency with data entry; familiarity with Salesforce or similar CRMs is an asset

  • Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently

  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

  • Good judgment and professional communication skills

  • Sensitivity to LGBTQI+ issues and alignment with Rainbow Railroad’s mission
    Minimum commitment of 3–6 months

Volunteer Benefits

  • Contribute to a key area of Rainbow Railroad’s fundraising strategy

  • Gain experience in nonprofit prospect research and CRM management

  • Join an international network of passionate staff and volunteers

  • Receive training, mentorship, and opportunities for personal development

  • Upon request, receive a professional reference or recognition for your volunteer service

  • Make a tangible difference in the lives of LGBTQI+ individuals seeking safety

How to Apply

To apply, please complete our Volunteer Application Form here on Charity Village.

Rainbow Railroad