The holiday season is a fantastic time to show people you care. As part of their 101 series, Together We Can Change the World has put together a list of 101 ways to show your volunteers you care all year long. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Make sure volunteers have the space, equipment and resources they need. Nothing discourages a volunteer more than being ignored or being put into a situation without the proper instructions or resources for the task they’ve been asked to do. Ask if they have questions and make sure they completely understand their task. Check back often to make sure they have everything they need or if they have any questions. Respond immediately.
2. Make sure your volunteer’s work is meaningful and enjoyable. While it’s true that not every task is “fun,” it can still be enjoyable. Let the volunteer know the purpose of the task or project. Every job is important for the ongoing welfare of the organization. Let your volunteer feel part of that importance! Knowing that their work is not just busy work” but has an important reason will make it much more enjoyable!
3. Reward your volunteers with an informal social event. Organize potluck dinners or picnics for your volunteers. Let them help do the planning and organizing. Include their families, the CEO, and their supervisors so they can get to know each other in a different venue. Relationship building is important.
4. Arrange a special photo wall for your volunteers. Not only will the pictures with names and job titles of your volunteers make them feel good, it will help your staff members as well. They will learn who the volunteers are and where they are working. It will also help volunteers recognize each other more quickly, too.
5. Accept different levels of commitment and involvement. Each volunteer is different. Some will have a deep commitment to your organization. Others will be minimally committed. Some will be able to volunteer many hours during the week. Others will be stretching to volunteer a few hours each month. Also be aware that involvement and commitment may also change for each volunteer. Illness, a death in the family, school, and family responsibilities will have an effect on the amount of time a person can volunteer.
6. Say thank you. That’s all.
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Be sure to download the whole list of 101 ways here.
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