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Engaging volunteers for maximum impact
Much of the nonprofit sector utilizes volunteer efforts to achieve their missions. Volunteers give so much more than time; they also bring skills, experience, networks, and money to organizations making them an important resource. While volunteer numbers are rebounding from the national low caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the U.S Census Bureau, numbers are not quite back to pre-pandemic levels. Therefore, nonprofits must still focus on recruitment and retainment of volunteers by creating volunteer management programs that encourage engagement.
Effective recruitment strategies
Nonprofits need to clearly communicate what they want to accomplish with volunteer support and how that work impacts the mission. Information technologies such as social media and networking forums are no- to low-cost ways to connect with volunteers in the community seeking to match their skills with an organization’s needs. Encouraging existing volunteers to act as spokespeople for the organization is another method of recruiting. This not only gains new volunteers but increases retainment of those currently engaged by demonstrating trust and a supportive culture.
Onboarding and training
Orientation programs are where good first impressions are created. Organizations can clearly define expectations, roles, needs, and mission for new volunteers, creating a sense of connection and confidence before their service even begins. Supply handbooks, job descriptions, and necessary resources and equipment that set the volunteers up for success. Ongoing training opportunities support personal and professional development, encouraging engagement as volunteers who are learning new skills and having worthwhile experiences stay.
Retention
Volunteers want to know their time and talents are appreciated and making a difference. Nonprofits can increase retention by centering the volunteer experience in the way communication, feedback, and recognition are handled. Create clear communication paths between the organization and the volunteer by utilizing social media to streamline and easily share information. Regularly request feedback from volunteers in the form of surveys, evaluations, or a suggestion box so they know their input is valued. And be sure to acknowledge good work. Communicating appreciation to volunteers frequently and thoughtfully encourages volunteers to continue supporting the organization for the long-term.
Organizational culture
An organizational culture that supports volunteers not only sustains volunteer engagement but positively impacts the nonprofit’s ability to achieve their mission. Enhance volunteers’ sense of belonging and purpose by encouraging them to form relationships with staff, leadership, and other volunteers. Allow for flexibility in how and when programs are carried out as this demonstrates understanding of logistical issues that may impact volunteers. Offer differing levels of time commitment for those who may only want to engage once or long-term, options for individual and group activities, in-person and virtual options, and intentionally matching volunteer skills with specific tasks. Nonprofits should also cultivate a volunteer base of people from all walks of life to best reflect the diverse communities served. Enhance inclusion and diversity in volunteer programs by identifying and addressing barriers to participating, creating roles with appropriate accommodations, providing regular training for staff and volunteers on diversity and inclusion, and collaborating with diverse organizations in the community to form partnerships and reach underserved populations.
Volunteers are a vital resource to many nonprofit organizations that rely on them to provide direct services to clients, support fundraising efforts, and perform administrative tasks. Keeping volunteers engaged in their roles positively impacts an organization’s ability to achieve their mission.
Bri Kness is a spring 2025 Graduate of the Master's of Nonprofit Leadership and Management program at Arizona State University and serves as the the Multidisciplinary Team Services and Training Manager at the Children’s Advocacy Center of North & Northwest Cook County (CAC), where she has been an integral part of the team for four years. With two decades of experience in the social services field, both professionally and in volunteer capacities, Bri thrives in the dynamic nature of nonprofit work. She enjoys the challenge of tackling new, diverse situations and is dedicated to making a meaningful impact each day.
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