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Many nonprofit organizations count on volunteers to help them achieve their mission. They simply could not exist without them. Whether your organization is volunteer driven or uses volunteers only minimally, you want to get the most out of the experience. Volunteering is a two-way street. You expect volunteers to take their jobs seriously and to do their best when performing the tasks assigned them. The organization has a responsibility to the volunteer to utilize them appropriately. The volunteer program should have definite goals and be well-organized. If training is needed, this must be provided to insure success for both the volunteer and the organization.

As sources of funding become increasingly competitive, many nonprofits will have a greater reliance on volunteers than ever before and will have be creative in finding volunteers. We at Volunteer For Good believe that the large number of retiring professionals and managers will provide a substantial boost to nonprofit effectiveness. This group will provide people who have been in leadership and creative positions throughout their working careers. Many will bring this same energy and creativity to nonprofits, enabling them to improve existing programs and to develop new ones that utilize volunteers in increasingly meaningful ways. In many cases, volunteers will be the ones who develop volunteer programs, combining the needs of the organization with the skills and interest of the energetic volunteers. Organizations who position themselves to take advantage of this highly educated and motivated group of people will find new excitement and effectiveness of their programs. Take a look at Nonprofit FAQ for more ideas about using volunteers.

Volunteer management is similar to the for-profit sector in that people are given training, given assignments, and are expected to carry them out. Volunteer management in the nonprofit sector is dissimilar in that the volunteer chooses to work for the organization and could opt to be doing something else with his or her time. No matter what the job or the organization, people should be given the tools necessary to perform the task and should be appreciated and treated with respect. In a for-profit situation, workers who are appreciated are more loyal, conscientious and contribute to the company’s bottom line. In the nonprofit environment, volunteers who are respected, encouraged and supported will also perform maximally and will keep coming back. There are a number of websites offering volunteer management tips. Go to the Resources page for some suggestions.

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