Areas and Regions FAQ
This FAQ covers questions about service areas (regions or zones) and how they connect needs to volunteers in NeedBridge.
What are areas?
Areas are the regions or zones your organization uses--for example "North County," "Downtown," or "West Side." Needs are assigned to an area, and volunteers choose which areas they can serve. That way volunteers see needs that match where they help. Your organization may call them something else (e.g. Regions or Zones); check the label in your app.
See also: Terminology FAQ, System settings
How do I add or edit an area?
Go to Admin > Settings > Areas. You can create new areas, rename them, and activate or deactivate them. Keep names clear so case workers and volunteers recognize them.
See also: Settings and Customization FAQ, Areas settings
Why don't I see a need (or why can't I claim it)?
Needs are tied to areas. If you're a volunteer, you only see needs in the areas you chose when you signed up or in your preferences. If the need is in an area you don't serve, it won't show. You can add or change your areas in your email preferences or volunteer profile.
See also: Needs and Claims FAQ, Volunteers FAQ
I'm a coordinator. What areas do I manage?
Coordinators are assigned to one or more areas. You'll see needs and activity for those areas and can support case workers there. If you don't see the areas you expect, ask an admin to check your coordinator assignment.
See also: Case Workers and Coordinators FAQ, Coordinator guide