“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart.” –Elizabeth Andrew
Volunteers are vital to both nonprofit and membership organizations. Showing appreciation for volunteers is about distinguishing, inspiring and motivating people who are actively engaged in your community. To keep their spirits alive, recognition needs to happen on a regular basis, occur in different ways, recognize the person more than the work, and most importantly be sincere. This goes a long way to improving volunteer retention. Here are some tips to show that you care:
• Thank You Cards and Postcards: Hand written notes are rare today and are a great way to show just how much you appreciate their efforts.
• Provide training: include volunteers in your staff training and/or give them training that will help them in their “jobs” and/or their personal life.
• Awards Event: Taking the time to plan a special event of food and entertainment goes a long way. Honor all the volunteers, as well as the few outstanding ones who have gone above and beyond for your organization.
• Bring in lunch or have a surprise snack available: This is less time consuming than planning an awards ceremony, but still shows your volunteers that they are treasured.
• Mention them often in your Newsletter: People love to see their name in print. Be sure you rotate people so that everyone sees their name at least once a year.
• Put a ribbon on their nametag: A “Valuable Volunteer” ribbon lets everyone know that this person is special.
• Have them share ideas: and if you use them, give them the credit!
(Parts taken from the program “Engaging Volunteers” by Dr. Mimi Hull)