1 of 2

Write now Article Tools

There is no one-size-fits-all for retaining volunteers. Volunteers have a multitude of personal motivations. Some people volunteer to fill empty hours or to remain active in their golden years. Others have a wealth of knowledge or skills they wish to share with their community. Some just want to make new friends and acquaintances. Still others see a cause they feel strongly about and wish to contribute their time and expertise.

Retaining your volunteers requires developing a rapport with them and discerning the reason they volunteer for your organization. If they are motivated by recognition and reward, a plaque, gift or article in the company newsletter may be the best approach. If they want to meet people, try to make sure that their volunteer time places them with others and gives them time to socialize as they work. People who have experience and knowledge they wish to share will remain loyal to the organization which offers them ample opportunity to use their talents and train others.
Besides strong motivation another factor to consider is appreciation. Every volunteer I've ever interviewed said they want to be appreciated for their contribution of time. This seems like such a simple expectation, but in a busy, sometimes understaffed, non-profit this simple gesture is too often overlooked by paid staff. Just a friendly smile is not enough. Tell the volunteer how much they contributed to your project with their donation of time and service. Send them a personal thank you note for tasks above and beyond the call of duty. Have the CEO stop by and thank them for their help. Validate their contribution to your success in the community in a public format.
Another way to ensure retention of valuable volunteers is to recognize them within your organization. Paid staff should encourage, assist and praise volunteers for a job well done. Providing snacks or meals for volunteers is another way to say how important they are to your organization. Many restaurants and groceries are happy to donate food and drinks to hard working volunteers in their community.
Student volunteers might appreciate letters of recommendation from your organization when they begin their job search, or are applying for scholarships. Corporate volunteers may appreciate a good word to their supervisor. Many corporations offer days off for a specified number of volunteer hours donated. If you have corporate volunteers and their company does not offer this, be their advocate and suggest

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about The best ways to retain volunteers?
We want to hear your view. Write now!