8 Simple Ways to Make Volunteers Feel Appreciated

No matter the size, every nonprofit needs volunteers to operate and to achieve its mission. From the people that serve on the board and those who support special events to those who serve in an ongoing capacity, EVERY volunteer is invaluable. But does every volunteer feel invaluable? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Of course, there isn't a single nonprofit that doesn't recognize how invaluable their volunteers are yet many still fail to make their volunteers feel appreciated.

So, in honor of National Volunteer Week (April 12-18, 2015), here are 8 simple ways to make your volunteers feel appreciated:

1. Give each volunteer a written position description with clearly defined duties and responsibilities as well as the time commitment.
2. Assign a contact person to each volunteer and give the contact a copy of the volunteer’s position description. Give the volunteer a written copy of their contact’s information and instructions on when and how to appropriately make contact. If possible, have a backup contact.
3. Provide volunteers with ongoing opportunities to ask questions and gain clarity.
4. Provide ongoing opportunities and encourage volunteers to provide feedback.
5. Sincerely and personally say “Thank you”.
6. Privately and publically acknowledge each volunteer’s contribution.
7. Provide each volunteer with a token of appreciation, such as a certificate and/or small gift.
8. Host a fun, social volunteer-centered event that includes activities suggested by your volunteers.

Keep doing good and creating opportunities for people to do good with you!

Michelle Nusum-Smith, an experienced nonprofit leader, consultant, coach and trainer, is a self-proclaimed “Do-gooder who helps do-gooders to do good.” Michelle is the owner and principal consultant at The Word Woman LLC, a nonprofit consulting company. She has nearly 20 years nonprofit experience, including program development, financial management, fundraising (including grantwriting and individual donor cultivation), human resource management, marketing and public relations, board relations, and event planning.

www.thewordwomanllc.com • info@thewordwomanllc.com • 240-215-4984