Imagine how many needs would go unanswered without volunteers!
One of the greatest things a person can do is offer their knowledge, skills, time or resources to offer hope and to help someone in need.
Volunteering connects people to a greater cause than themselves. It allows people be a part of something big, builds relationships and makes a difference in the lives of those they serve.
With crazy schedules and busy lives, finding volunteers can sometimes be a challenge. Here are 5 Tips for Finding and Keeping Volunteers:
- Personal Invitation. Extend a personal invitation because personal invitation is always the best. Spend time getting to know people. Cast vision for your cause and purpose. Let them know how they can make a difference.
- Strategic Placement. Help your volunteers find a role where they will thrive. Think about their availability and season in life. Examine their gifts and strengths. Place them in positions where they will experience wins and they will stay with you for the long haul.
- Endless support. Always offer to assist your volunteers in any way you can. Let them know that you are happy to gather supplies, brainstorm ideas, or help with a difficult challenge. When you create a positive experience for your volunteers, they will return and maybe even bring others on board with them. Don’t just put them to work and go on your way!
- Specific Time Commitments. People may shy away from committing to something they feel like they can’t ever walk away from, so invite them to volunteer for a specific amount of time. Then give them the opportunity to re-enlist.
- Words of Encouragement. There’s no such thing as saying ‘thank you’ too much. Each volunteer has a life just like you do. Appreciating them through notes, emails, and surprise treats will go a long way!
What are tips you have discovered for building a volunteer team?
