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What Is the Difference Between a Project and a Session?

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What Is the Difference Between a Project and a Session?

Get a clear understanding of the difference between the two.

Last updated on 10 Jun, 2026

Sessions are one-hour consultation calls where volunteers provide targeted support to help a nonprofit address a specific need. They’re ideal for answering a focused question or offering expert advice on how to approach a challenge. There is no deliverable—just a discussion with a subject matter expert. Sessions can also help nonprofits prepare for a future Project by clarifying goals and defining the scope of work.  

Projects are multi-week engagements where volunteers and nonprofits collaborate on a focused, tangible deliverable. Projects typically last 2–12 weeks and require about 30 volunteer hours to complete. Nonprofits will have a scope of work in mind, but ultimately the volunteer and nonprofit will work together to achieve a defined outcome, such as a new marketing strategy, financial model, or website audit.  

Both opportunity types allow volunteers to make an impact by sharing their professional expertise—whether through quick, strategic guidance or deeper, hands-on collaboration. 

Key Difference: Interview vs. Direct Scheduling

Projects include a 30-minute interview before your application is matched with the Project. If a nonprofit is interested in moving forward after reviewing your application, they’ll propose times to schedule a conversation to explore fit and align expectations. 

Sessions skip the interview. If a nonprofit selects your application, they’ll schedule the one-hour consultation directly—since it’s a short, standalone interaction, there’s no need for a separate interview. 

Please feel free to join our Taproot Volunteer Orientation, held on the last Wednesday of every month at 1 PM ET / 12 PM CT. In this 45-minute session, you'll:

  • Learn what skills-based volunteering looks like in practice and why it's such an impactful way to give back

  • Explore the two ways to volunteer on Taproot Plus and how to find the right fit for you

  • Gain a clear, step-by-step picture of how Taproot Plus works

You'll leave with the confidence to find and apply for opportunities that match your skills, goals, and passions.

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