If you’re organizing a fundraiser for a nonprofit, you may also have to fill the role of volunteer coordinator, which isn’t easy. Not only do volunteer coordinators need to find new volunteers to fill open positions, but they also need to get to know the volunteers in order to match them to the right tasks.
Follow these simple steps to keep your volunteers happy and motivated to work.
Here are some ways that volunteer coordinators can keep their volunteer staff happy and coming back to work each day.
Be Prepared – As paid employees, we’ve all held jobs that made us think, “I can’t believe the way this place is run!” However, this is not the case for volunteers who are donating their time. If their time is not well-spent, they’ll find another organization that’s a better fit for their needs.
Welcome – Make sure your new volunteer knows he’s welcome and appreciated. Give him a tour of the facility before handing him over to a senior volunteer for training and mentoring.
It’s a Challenge – Today’s volunteer wants to be challenged. They don’t just want to sort clothes or stuff envelopes, so don’t give them “grunt” work just because that’s what’s available. Volunteers want to use their brains and do meaningful work for your organization. Help them find a task where their skills and experience can be put to good use.
Social Butterflies – Some people become volunteers specifically to make new social connections. As a volunteer coordinator, it’s important to know who wants a position where they can interact a lot with the public and other volunteers. Also, it’s good to know which folks are looking for more social activities outside of “work.” Many volunteer groups also have a social arm, which includes meeting one night a week for dinner or taking overnight trips.
Learn New Things – The goal of your nonprofit is part of the reason why individuals choose to volunteer their time. Find out what the goals are for your volunteers, so you can place them appropriately in the organization. For example, if your organization is an antique car museum, a volunteer might have a goal of learning how to restore antique cars.
Communicate and Appreciate – These individuals volunteer their time because they believe in your mission. Make sure you’re regularly communicating information about your mission to volunteers. Take the time to meet with them as a group and send regular emails regarding the successes your nonprofit has achieved with their help. In all communications, take the time to give public recognition and appreciation to the volunteer staff.
Utilizing engraved brick pavers from Bricks R Us is an economical and permanent method of showing appreciation and recognition for your loyal volunteers and donors. If you have questions about volunteer issues or bricks, contact us today!
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
