Good volunteers amplify the productivity and reach of your organization, advocate for you in the community, and often become your most loyal donors.
Where do you find them?
- Ask for recommendations
- Post on a platform like VolunteerMatch.com
- Apply for AmeriCorps Vista and NCCC teams to help you with a wide variety of projects like administrative assistance, building and renovation, staffing special events, establishing community gardens, etc. Http://www.americorps.gov/about/programs/nccc.asp
Once you find them, how do you keep them?
- Manage your volunteer relationships well from the start:
- Keep your relationships professional
- Provide a job description
- Use an application form
- Check references
- Complete a criminal history background check before work begins
A volunteer once told me she could not make a cash donation at the time but she was leaving her house to that nonprofit in her will. Wow, how generous!
