Terminology FAQ

This FAQ explains the labels and words used in NeedBridge and why they might differ from what you see in the help articles.

Why do I see different words than in the help articles (e.g. "Request" instead of "Need")?

Your organization can customize the labels in the app. So you might see Request instead of Need, Region instead of Area, or Family Advocate instead of Case Worker. The help articles often use the default words (Need, Area, Volunteer, etc.), but the labels in your site are what your organization chose. When in doubt, follow the wording you see in the app.

See also: Terminology reference

What does "Area" mean?

An area is a geographic or service region your organization uses--for example "North County" or "Downtown." Volunteers often choose which areas they can serve. Your organization may call it something else, like Region or Zone; check the label in your app.

What's the difference between Need, Claimed, and Completed?

• Need (or your org's word for it) is a request for help that's been posted.
• Claimed means a volunteer has said they'll help; the need is in progress.
• Completed means the need has been fulfilled.

Your organization may use different labels (e.g. Fulfilled instead of Completed). The status you see in the app is the one that applies to your organization.

Why does the button say "Respond" (or "Help") instead of "Claim"?

Organizations can customize action labels. So the button to respond to a need might say Claim, Respond, Help, or I'll help depending on your org's settings. Same for Browse (might be "View" or "Explore"), Donate (might be "Give" or "Contribute"), and similar. Use the button labels you see in the app.