Nonprofit organizations depend heavily on the dedication of volunteers to handle a wide range of tasks, from managing daily operations and organizing fundraisers to maintaining grounds and stepping in as substitute teachers. The possibilities are endless. However, recruiting dependable volunteers can be a time-consuming challenge. Taking good care of those who choose to volunteer ensures they’re more likely to return—and even bring friends along. To make the most of your volunteer program, keep these principles in mind:
- Respect Their Time Volunteers generously give their time, which is as valuable as any paid resource. While they may not receive monetary compensation, their contributions shouldn’t be taken for granted. Ensure their time is well-utilized by starting and ending activities promptly, providing all necessary resources, and giving clear instructions. Imagine arriving at a workday only to find it delayed by an hour, lacking leadership, and missing essential supplies—you’d leave feeling frustrated and disillusioned. Respect for their time builds trust and encourages continued participation.
- Understand Their Motivation Knowing what drives your volunteers helps you connect with them and recognize their efforts effectively. Volunteers often fall into three categories:
- Mission-Driven Advocates: These individuals are passionate about your cause and want to see their efforts contribute directly to your organization’s mission. Share updates on the impact of their work to keep them inspired.
- Community Builders: These volunteers want to be more involved with your organization by forming connections with staff and peers. They could be future board members or staff candidates.
- Resource-Conscious Contributors: Parents volunteering as recreational league coaches, for example, may understand that their involvement keeps the organization affordable for all. Highlight the financial impact of their efforts to show appreciation.
- Match Tasks to Skills Assign tasks that align with your volunteers’ strengths and talents. A poorly matched assignment—such as asking an introvert to work at the welcome table—can lead to discomfort and dissatisfaction. Knowing the abilities within your volunteer pool allows for smarter task delegation. For instance, if a skilled graphic designer is among your volunteers, they could focus on creating brochures, freeing your staff to work on other priorities.
By respecting volunteers’ time, understanding their motivations, and utilizing their skills effectively, you can improve recruitment and retention while enhancing your organization’s overall success.
Photo by Julia M Cameron
