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Volunteers are already committed to work. However, over time it can be difficult to find the motivation to keep volunteering. According to idealist.org it is important to ask questions that could and will keep volunteers. A few questions are:
1. Are they volunteering to make their community a better place?
This is important to know when it comes to knowing the volunteers. Personal connections with volunteers will make them feel wanted and appreciated.
Hills & Dales, which provides services to children and adults with severe disabilities, takes the time to get to know their volunteers to make sure it is a good fit for everyone. Volunteers are needed at Hills & Dales to help them with their events and clients. The volunteers quickly learn just how important they are to their new found friends and to Hills & Dales.
2. Should we thank our volunteers?
Of course you should thank volunteers. Motivation and recognition go hand in hand. V
olunteers will feel more welcomed and pleased which will encourage them to do work in their community.
St. Mark Youth Enrichment does a great job thanking staff members and volunteers. There is a staff and volunteer appreciation day and they have students decorate thank you cards with a small gift card and yummy treats.
3. Why is demonstrating impact important?
Demonstrating the impact of the volunteer program is one of the most difficult things to do in volunteer management. Demonstrating impact will help build support and recognition in the community, attract the attention of potential funders, and help maintain a strong relationship with current funders.
Many, if not all agencies should be bragging about how hard their volunteers have been working for the community. This will help build a reputation in the community that is a positive image. Circles Initiative hosts Circles Social Night which focuses on fun and relaxation.There are different themes each social night as well as entertaining minute to win it activities, as well as relaxing yoga/meditation. These nights allow volunteers to step back and see all the hard work they are doing as well as see the impact they have made.
4. Why should we evaluate volunteers?
Evaluating and reporting are crucial to improving a volunteer program and its overall impact.
AmeriCorps Partners in Learning evaluate their AmeriCorps volunteers to ensure all their volunteers did the work they were asked to do. Evaluations are also used to help improve any problems that may have occurred.
Above are just a few of many examples to secure long-term commitments from volunteers. So, what will your organization implement to make volunteers feel at home and appreciated?
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