I’m referring to those folks so many nonprofits rely on to keep the organization running. Beyond the board members. You know, the ones in the office doing data entry for you, the ones serving directly in programs, the ones who help you figure out those IT issues, or provide marketing advice, the ones who help you raise money, volunteer at your event, and tell your story in the community.

Are they more trouble than they are worth?

Because after all, it takes time to manage them. It’s just more people to communicate with, and they aren’t all that reliable, right? And sometimes they have the darnedest ideas! Huh.

Next question – what would you do without them? Seriously.

If you get stuck in this mindset, then perhaps you shouldn’t work with volunteers after all. But I’m willing to bet you can turn that thinking around. And just to underscore why you may want to invest some energy to do so, here are some fun facts:

  • According to VolunteerMatch, volunteers are also a key resource for cultivating financial support, since 2/3 of volunteers donate to the organization they serve, and on average they donate 10 times more than non-volunteers.
  • More volunteers means you have more ambassadors in the community telling the story of your important work (free PR!!)
  • Points of Light states “Nonprofits that operate as Service Enterprises more effectively address community needs and run on almost half the median budget than those nonprofits that do not leverage volunteers across all levels of the their organization.”
  • When volunteers are integrated throughout the organization, this frees up other staff to do those things they struggle to get to – launching new programs and initiatives, for example. Staff feel less frustrated and can build enthusiasm around important work which ultimately increases job satisfaction.
  • Additionally, your organization is better positioned to grow, to be sustainable and navigate challenges that can’t be anticipated.

The list goes on, but how do you move forward with volunteer engagement in a positive way that will truly leverage your ability to serve the community? Let’s look at the Impact Triangle formula – the system for accelerating your impact:
1. Mindset – try these things to adjust your thinking:

  • Take a breath and assess your readiness to move forward. It’s okay to feel vulnerable or a bit confused. But are you willing to try to fully engage volunteers in order to maximize your mission?
  • Recruit a support partner who is on the same page. Tell them your goals and ask them to work alongside you. Can you name one or two now?
  • Focus forward on the big picture. Where else could you utilize the talent of volunteers? Trust me – if you review job descriptions, or talk to staff who can never get through their inbox, you will be surprised. This is an opportunity, and it’s a good thing!

2. Relationships – you can’t do it alone:

  • Identify ways to get leadership aligned with your efforts. Your bold vision needs support from the top, so how can you influence the organization’s key priorities?
  • How might your current volunteers play a role in enhancing your program? Try asking for their feedback and come to understand what motivates them, what they see as the strengths of your current volunteer effort and what suggestions they have for change.
  • As you notice who is excited about elevating volunteer engagement in your organization, ask them to help you guide the shift. Seek out small wins for the team and speak to the benefits often.

3. Winning practices – getting to the tools:

  • There are plenty of resources to help you outline a process for a successful volunteer engagement program. What organization provides technical assistance to nonprofits near you? Who in town is already integrating volunteers throughout their organization? Seek their advice, do your own online research, and be open to new ideas.
  • Outline an action plan that truly focuses on strengthening your mission outcomes by building a strategic volunteer engagement strategy. Who will do what, and by when?
  • Determine how you will measure success and establish an evaluation process. Be clear on the end game and track progress.

A strong volunteer initiative can transform your organization. Let me know if you would like more tips, tools or introductions to organizations that are doing great things.

By the way, the answer to my original question is no, volunteers are not too much trouble; in fact, they are invaluable to your nonprofit organization.

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