Free User vs. Sponsor Pro Bono Access
Quick Answer
Free users receive 3 pro bono accesses monthly with email notifications delayed 24 hours, while sponsors get unlimited accesses with immediate email and optional SMS notifications. Sponsoring ANY listing type (profile, organization, job, or event) for $24/month unlocks unlimited pro bono access account-wide, plus priority on paid leads.
Overview
The Pro Bono Program offers two distinct access levels designed for different commitment levels. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right option based on your pro bono goals and capacity to serve communities in need.
Access Comparison
Core Differences
Feature | Free User | Sponsor ($24/month) |
Monthly Accesses | 3 connections | UNLIMITED |
Browse Opportunities | Unlimited | Unlimited |
Access Counter | Shows remaining (e.g., "2 of 3") | Hidden (unlimited) |
Confirmation Popup | Yes, warns about usage | No, direct access |
Email Notifications | 24 hours after sponsors | Immediate |
SMS Notifications | Not available | Optional |
Pro Bono Champion Badge | No | Yes |
Priority in Results | Standard | Enhanced visibility |
Paid Lead Benefits | None | 24-hour exclusive window |
Notification Timing
Free Users
Receive email 24 hours after sponsors
May miss time-sensitive opportunities
No SMS option available
Can still browse all opportunities online
Sponsors
Immediate email notifications
Optional SMS alerts for urgent cases
First to know about new opportunities
Better chance at high-demand cases
Making the Decision
Stay Free If You:
Take 1-3 pro bono cases monthly
Have limited time for pro bono work
Want to test the program first
Prefer selective case acceptance
Work in low-demand specialties
Upgrade to Sponsor If You:
Regularly max out 3 monthly accesses
Want to build reputation through volume
Serve specific communities extensively
Need immediate notifications
Also purchase paid leads (24-hour priority)
How to Upgrade
Step 1: Choose Any Listing to Sponsor
You can sponsor:
Profile listing
Organization listing
Job listing
Event listing Any sponsored listing unlocks unlimited pro bono
Step 2: Click Upgrade to Sponsor
Navigate to your chosen listing and click the "Upgrade to Sponsor" button. The $24/month subscription starts immediately.
Step 3: Enjoy Immediate Benefits
Access counter disappears
Click "I'll Take It" without limits
Receive immediate notifications
Enable SMS alerts in settings
Important Notes
Account-Wide Benefit: Sponsoring ANY listing type gives unlimited pro bono
No Separate Subscription: Pro bono unlimited is included with sponsor status
Immediate Activation: Benefits start instantly upon upgrade
Grace Period: 7 days continued access if payment fails
Downgrade Effects: Returns to 3 monthly accesses at billing cycle end
FAQs
Q: If I sponsor my event listing instead of my profile, do I still get unlimited pro bono? A: Yes! Sponsoring ANY listing type (profile, organization, job, or event) provides unlimited pro bono access account-wide.
Q: Can I upgrade mid-month after using my 3 free accesses? A: Yes, upgrading immediately gives you unlimited access for the remainder of the month and beyond.
Q: What happens to my accepted cases if I downgrade? A: You keep all previously accepted cases. Only future access is limited to 3 monthly after downgrade takes effect.
Q: Is there a middle tier between 3 and unlimited? A: No, you either have 3 free monthly accesses or unlimited with sponsor status. There's no option to purchase additional individual accesses.
Next Steps
Track your monthly pro bono usage patterns
Calculate if you need more than 3 monthly
Consider the added value of paid lead priority
Choose a listing to sponsor
Monitor your impact metrics after upgrading
Related Articles
Understanding Your 3 Monthly Accesses
Upgrading to Sponsor Status
Pro Bono Program Overview
How Sponsor Status Benefits All Programs