Given the public scrutiny of overall expenditures by charities and other non-profit groups today, most charities have limitations on the number of paid staff that they can employ. Therefore, these charities rely on an active volunteer base to support and accomplish a number of task that would otherwise go unfulfilled. By performing the following five actions, a charitable organization will not only maintain a happy and engaged volunteer base but also draw other willing volunteers to your organization:
Always remember to thank your volunteers
Create a team atmosphere
Honor the most active volunteers even in small ways
Promote a positive vision by sharing success stories
Have volunteers promote the charity to others
Always remember to thank your volunteers
Volunteers often work many long hours in supporting organizations and expect little if any recompense. However, when these volunteers do not receive any thanks or appreciation for their efforts, they become less motivated to volunteer for the charitable organization's next event. Sometimes, just a few words of sincere thanks and appreciation is all that a committed volunteer hopes to hear.
Create a team atmosphere
Providing open and direct communication channels between the charity's staff and its volunteers helps to build a spirit of community. Team-building events and social gatherings also foster and build bonds with the charitable organization. This spirit will shine through and be recognized by others.
Honor the most active volunteers
Although most volunteers will not openly admit it, they do enjoy recognition for their efforts even if it is something as simple a certificate honoring their service. Mentioning the names of volunteers who 'went the extra mile' either online or in a printed publication such as a bulletin will be appreciated and potentially may draw other potential volunteers who are acquainted with the recipient.
Promote a positive vision by sharing success stories
Having a charitable organization mention the many success stories that result from its efforts provides two benefits. First, the volunteers gain the knowledge and satisfaction that their efforts are making a difference in the world. Second, people are naturally drawn to successful organizations and a charity that has a well-known and storied history will be a natural draw for people looking to volunteer.
Have volunteers promote the charity to others
A charity's current volunteers are often its best recruiting tool for obtaining additional volunteers. Through social events, entertaining charitable activities or other events, a charity provides ways for existing volunteers to invite people who are open to participating in future charitable events.
By following these five steps, an organization can grow its volunteer base and be well-positioned to help others now and in the future. To gain additional information on increasing volunteerism, contact Gift of Compassion.