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4 ways to leverage technology in your volunteer management
When a small to mid-size nonprofit considers integrating digital technology into its organization, it can be intimidating. Before deciding that technology is challenging to incorporate, consider how it can increase volunteer engagement and an organization's overall dynamic and workflow. Technology can bridge the gap between volunteers and nonprofit staff by improving communication and contributing to an improved work culture. It can also lessen the workload of volunteer managers, help with scheduling and communication, and create a culture of communication within an organization. Communication platforms can assist with volunteer recognition when volunteer managers lack the bandwidth to complete day-to-day operations.
A nonprofit can take a few simple steps that can make a significant impact, engaging volunteers and leading to an overall better volunteer experience. Digital technology can lead to the retention of volunteers in the long term and can lead to prospective employees and stewardship. Many people who volunteer often donate to the organizations they serve.
Engaging with volunteers through social media
Social media can be a valuable tool for posting videos and content that engages volunteers. It can be something exciting at your organization or even discussing a need for volunteers. It can also be a great way to elevate the culture of a nonprofit by creating posts that showcase exceptional volunteers and employees. It can bring your nonprofit's “personality” to life. Different platforms attract different age groups, and posting often on multiple platforms can increase volunteer engagement results.
Use a volunteer engagement platform for better communication
Volunteer engagement platforms can contribute to a more positive experience for volunteers. It can assist with outreach and help nonprofits develop relationships with their volunteers. Keeping lines of communication open and letting volunteers know they are appreciated can go a long way. Volunteer engagement platforms can help automate communications and help volunteer managers save time while connected to their volunteers.
Create microvolunteering opportunities
Along with helping to make operations more efficient, Technology is also changing how volunteers serve nonprofits. Microvolunteering is volunteering for a short duration and often coincides with digital tasks that volunteers can complete from home. Microvolunteering is an excellent opportunity for nonprofits to outsource digital administrative tasks to their volunteers. People who like to volunteer using their tech-savvy skills may like to volunteer from home. They can complete tasks such as filing, updating documents, and creating social media content. Incorporating microvolunteering opportunities can open doors to new volunteers while helping to lessen the workload for nonprofits by assisting with administrative tasks.
Using Artificial Intelligence to help with communication and administrative tasks
Artificial Intelligence can help with email interactions, administrative tasks, data analytics, and communication. It can also assist with content development, scheduling, and volunteer recognition. Artificial intelligence is quickly evolving and is a tool that can help increase engagement, assist with communication, and ease the workload for volunteer managers.
Though nonprofits can be intimidated by incorporating digital technology into their organizations, there are many budget-friendly tech for good tools, and some are even free. The key is to stay informed, be willing to learn, and be open to new ideas and experiences while keeping up with emerging trends. These small changes can be impactful and elevate a nonprofit to new levels, making it a desirable organization to volunteer for and improving all aspects of a nonprofit.
Elaina Berry is a spring 2025 Graduate of the Masters of Nonprofit Leadership and Management program at Arizona State University. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Endicott College. A lifelong volunteer, she has also taken on many roles as a director, a fundraiser, and a board member. Elaina is deeply invested in helping youth and faith-based communities, bridging the gap between adults and youth in faith-based organizations. She assists the Metropolis Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Boston with its Thriving Congregations Initiative. She is the team leader for the initiative at the Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church in Ipswich, Massachusetts.
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