{"id":4892,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:49","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/top-five-tips-to-keep-nonprofit-volunteers-coming-back.html"},"modified":"2024-05-23T00:11:41","modified_gmt":"2024-05-23T05:11:41","slug":"top-five-tips-to-keep-nonprofit-volunteers-coming-back","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/top-five-tips-to-keep-nonprofit-volunteers-coming-back.html","title":{"rendered":"Top Five Tips To Keep Nonprofit Volunteers Coming Back"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Top Five Tips To Keep Nonprofit Volunteers Coming Back<\/h1>\n
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\n By Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Aviana Cooper, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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In the aftermath of the pandemic, many small businesses have shifted gears toward community service and fundraising. This transformation has not only nurtured the spirit of giving but also bolstered the independent sector. At the heart of this change are the unsung heroes \u2014 the volunteers.<\/p>\r\n

If you run a volunteer program, are on the board of directors for a community service group, or work with a for-profit engaged in community work, knowing how to keep volunteers returning is a valuable trait. Many nonprofits<\/a> spend countless paid staff hours recruiting and looking for nonprofit volunteers to work, only to have the volunteers quit after a few sessions. Here are our top five tips for keeping volunteers.<\/p>\r\n

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1. Figure Out and Tap Into the Nonprofit Volunteers’ Motives<\/h2>\r\n

Many directors of nonprofit organizations<\/a> fail to realize that most volunteers give their time because they have good hearts and are trying to do something good for the community. Also, many nonprofit volunteers have other reasons for giving their time and efforts. Perhaps they are new to the area and want to make more friends, or they are looking for a new outlook on life. Whatever it is, if you put them at a menial task all day where they are isolated, they are less likely to come back.<\/p>\r\n

Have a general questionnaire that has areas such as, "What are you looking to get from this experience?" Have the volunteers write down as much as they want. If your nonprofit<\/a> volunteers feel that they are getting something back in return for their free work, they will be more likely to come back.<\/p>\r\n

Just as business taps into customer needs, understanding the motives behind your volunteers is essential. Some may volunteer for mental health benefits, wanting to feel connected and valued. Others might be employee volunteers from a for-profit wanting to offer help to the community. Some are mentors wishing to guide. Others are providers, like health care professionals, desiring to offer beneficial services. Recognizing their motivations helps in strategic planning to cater to their interests.<\/p>\r\n

2. Explain Your Expectations to the Nonprofit Volunteers at the Outset<\/h2>\r\n

Clear communication from the start is vital. When recruiting volunteers, be upfront about what their roles will entail. Whether it’s advocacy work, assisting with income tax returns for the community, or participating in fundraising, volunteers appreciate clarity. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has specifications on how volunteer hours should be documented. Being upfront ensures no surprises and lets volunteers match their skills with your needs.<\/p>\r\n

You should take the time to explain in detail what is expected of every volunteer before they are expected to perform the tasks you set for them. Many nonprofit<\/a> organizations give their volunteers a manual<\/a> that explains what duties will be expected of them. This manual could include material that outlines:<\/p>\r\n