Volunteering with IAPP
Frequently asked questions
How can I get involved as a volunteer?
Each position has different requirements and expectations. To learn more about the details of each IAPP volunteer opportunity, visit our volunteer page.
Which volunteer role is right for me?
Working with volunteers helps the IAPP to learn perspectives and receive guidance from professionals across the globe. We pride ourselves in offering a variety of volunteer roles, which are suitable for a range of experience levels. Please look over the roles and expectations of each position to learn more. If you’re not sure which position may be a good fit for you, contact us at volunteer@iapp.org. Please include your interests, your availability, and any questions you may have on a particular role. We would be happy to work together to find the perfect role for you.
Do I need to be an IAPP member to volunteer and what if I am a new member?
Yes, all volunteers need to be IAPP members. All members are encouraged to volunteer. However, the length of membership might be taken into consideration for certain positions. Learn more about member benefits and join today.
What if I'm new to the privacy profession?
Length of involvement in the field might affect selection of candidates for certain positions. You are still encouraged to apply. All members are encouraged and invited to apply for any role they are interested in. Please note that length of involvement in the field may affect selection for certain positions, while others are perfectly suited for those new to the profession. Check the requirements and expectations of each opportunity on the volunteer page to learn more.
How long is each volunteer commitment?
The length of commitment varies depending on the role. Review the roles and expectations on the volunteer page of the position you are interested in.
How do I apply for a leadership position?
Complete an online submission form on the Call for Volunteers page during the submission period, which happens every September.
I don’t meet all the qualifications for a leadership position. Can I still get involved?
Yes, if you want to try out a one-time volunteer position to get some experience we have those too! See all volunteer opportunities on the volunteer page.
How can I get involved with IAPP Conferences?
IAPP Conferences offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities. If you are looking to get involved with networking, contact us at volunteer@iapp.org. If you’d like to speak at a conference, or learn which conferences are currently accepting proposals visit our website to learn more.
How can I get involved with the IAPP Publications?
What is the Call for Volunteers?
The annual Call for Volunteers opens every September. IAPP members are encouraged to apply for leadership positions including Advisory Board member, KnowledgeNet Chapter Chair, and Young Privacy Professional.
How do I apply?
Can I apply for more than one position?
No, please apply for your top choice. If you are not selected for your top choice, we may contact you to offer options for a different position based on your qualifications.
How long is the commitment?
The length of commitment varies depending on the role. Review the roles and expectations on the volunteer page of the position you are interested in.
When will I be notified if I've been selected for a leadership position?
All candidates for leadership positions are rigorously reviewed and carefully selected. Following the Call for Volunteers, all applicants for leadership positions will be notified of their status before the end of the year.
Do I need to be an IAPP member to apply and what if I’m a new member?
Yes, all volunteers need to be IAPP members. All members are encouraged to apply. However, the length of membership might be taken into consideration for certain positions. Learn more about member benefits and join today.
What if I am new to the Privacy profession?
Length of involvement in the field might affect selection of candidates for certain positions. You are still encouraged to apply.
I missed the submission period. Can I still apply?
The IAPP has a firm timeline for accepting and reviewing applications for leadership positions in order to give our volunteers the best onboarding experience. We encourage you to submit your application during the next open submission period that takes place every September.
Can I apply on behalf of another member?
No, members need to log in to their MyIAPP account to complete their own application.
I applied but did not get a confirmation email. Did my application go through?
Please check your spam folder for your confirmation email. Your application likely went through, but if you are unsure, please email volunteer@iapp.org before attempting to submit your application again.
Which board is for me?
We recommend reviewing the roles and expectations documents for each of our open boards to see which scopes of work best match your abilities, background and interests.
Are regional boards only open to those of that region?
No, if you have working knowledge of a region for which you can contribute, although you may not live there, you would certainly be considered for that board.
Is conference attendance mandatory?
No, however, there may be an onsite luncheon or advisory board meeting taking place at a conference that would be advantageous for you to attend. We love to connect with our advisory board members at our conferences.
I haven’t published any articles. Can I still apply to the Publications Advisory Board?
I am a privacy training partner. Can I serve on a Certification Board?
No. Privacy trainers cannot serve on certification boards.
I recently served on an Exam Development Board. Can I now serve on a Training Board?
No. If you have recently served on an Exam Development Board, there is a two year waiting period before serving on a Training Board.
How can I get involved with my local chapter?
IAPP KnowledgeNet chapters are led and run by volunteers who live and work in the region. The IAPP offers many ways to be involved with your local KnowledgeNet Chapter. During the annual Call For Volunteers, we accept applications for both KnowledgeNet Chapter Chair and Young Privacy Professional roles. In addition to these roles, volunteering as a speaker or donating meeting space is also essential for the success of KnowledgeNet Chapters. Learn more about these opportunities here.
I don’t see a chapter near me listed, how do I get involved?
New chapter requests will be reviewed at the beginning of the year. Please read the roles and expectations for KnowledgeNet Chapter chairs, and if you're interested, please fill out this application form.
Who are the current chapter chairs?
Current chapter chairs are listed on our chair page.
Do I have to live near the chapter I apply for?
You must live or work near the chapter you apply for. Members are welcome to utilize the Member Directory to find direct contact information of chapter volunteers.
I’m a current KnowledgeNet Chapter chair. Do I need to reapply?
If your term continues into next year, you do not need to re-apply. Chairs serve a two-year term so if your term is ending this year you will need to re-apply. Please note that we try to bring in new volunteers each year to open opportunities for others and to bring a fresh perspective to the local chapter. If you’re not sure when your term ends please email knowledgenet@iapp.org.
What is a Young Privacy Professional?
Young Privacy Professionals (YPPs) work with their local KnowledgeNet Chapter co-chairs to plan networking activities.
What is the age bracket for Young Privacy Professionals?
Young Privacy Professionals are industry professionals with less than 10 years of work experience.
Who are the current Young Privacy Professionals?
Questions about Volunteering?
Email us at volunteer@iapp.org.
