When managing volunteers, it can be difficult to know if you're implementing the right volunteer management strategy or best volunteer appreciations. Celebrating and recognizing your volunteers is an integral part of retaining nonprofit volunteers. We understand that volunteers contribute a significant amount of work, hours, and dedication to the organizations they serve. Below are some of our favorite ways to show gratitude to our volunteers.
Publicly Recognize Volunteers
Featuring your volunteers and their accomplishments on your social media, newsletter, or website can make your volunteers feel more included and recognized in the organization! It is also a great way for your community to learn more about the volunteers they are interacting with.
Offer Ways for Volunteers to Network and Meet With Each Other
Providing space for your volunteers to connect and learn from each other is a great way to strengthen your team and organization. This can be a weekly virtual networking hour or an in-person coffee or lunch. If the weather is nice, a park or pool meet up might be a great way to gather everyone together in the hot summer months. Allowing your volunteers to connect and build relationships can help with volunteer retention.
Connect With Their Employer
Sharing a volunteer’s accomplishments with their current employer is a thoughtful way to demonstrate your gratitude! This can be writing their employer a nice email, or even inviting them to see the volunteer in action at your events!
Give the Gift of a Membership
Most volunteers are not getting compensated financially for their time and work. Thank volunteers for their time and work by giving them memberships after they volunteer. This is a great way to retain a relationship with a former volunteer.
Provide Opportunities for Professional Development
Volunteering is a great way to learn new professional skills! Enhance your volunteer’s experience by providing opportunities for professional development. Check out this page to learn more about our upcoming trainings!
Host a Volunteer Appreciation Event
Take time to plan an in-person or virtual event celebrating your volunteers. Try thinking outside the classic pizza party and plan something that celebrates the work your volunteers have accomplished! In summer many volunteers will have their children out of school, so try to have a family friendly event if possible.
Eager to learn more? We offer several volunteer management trainings, and you can take all of our volunteer management courses online. We've listed a few of our webinars for volunteer management below. Hope you can join us!
How to Recruit, Train, Engage and Retain Virtual and On-site Volunteers
Register and learn more here!
How to Manage Difficult Volunteers
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How to Build a Corporate Volunteer Program
Register and learn more here!
How to Build a Corporate Volunteer Program
Register and learn more here!
Effective Volunteer Management: Volunteer Recruitment, Training, Retention, Leadership Structures & Managing Difficult Issues in the Moment
Register and learn more here!