Volunteers can lighten the load on your Non Profit Organization (NPO).  If your organization has been forced to lay off staff, you may need to start a new volunteer program—or ramp up the one you have.  Volunteers can be a solid foundation to help your NPO survive the current economic downturn.

Why are Volunteer Coordinators Needed?

Too many NPOs are short on personnel, with individuals taking on more work than they can handle. Volunteer coordinators fulfill an important role by easing the demands on staff, helping the organization save money, and increasing community awareness. If possible, it’s best that the volunteer coordinator position is not combined with any other job title. If the coordinator is spread too thinly, the entire volunteer system can collapse. 

Planning for Success

Patience and good communication skills will go a long way toward succeeding at the volunteer coordinator’s job. First, they must know the needs of the organization and staff.  It won’t do any good to create a receptionist position when a driver would be much more useful to the staff. Interviewing staff members is a great way to determine where the holes are, what work is piling up, and where they need the most help.  Be sure to clarify which jobs and tasks will remain with staff, and which will be performed by volunteers, so that everyone understands their roles.

Communicate Expectations

Every volunteer’s job should be an imperative part of the organization, with specific tasks and responsibilities.  Give them a job description to follow. Determine whether it is a short- or long-term (lasting at least a year) position, so the volunteer knows what to expect. Check in and find out if they are enjoying the work; if not, help them transfer to a position they’re suited for.

What Do Volunteers Need?

First, all of your volunteers should know the purpose and mission of the organization. Share the goals the board has established. A volunteer may be the first and only contact a potential client or donor has with your agency, so it is vital that they know how to communicate this information clearly. Plus, they will feel empowered to properly perform their job and help the organization meet its goals. Volunteers want to feel useful! Give your volunteers complete attention, and keep the lines of communication open. Let them know their importance to the NPO, and how their work benefits everyone. Be available for questions and be extra patient for the first few months, as everyone learns their new roles.

Recognition is important, too. The entire staff should make volunteers feel welcome and supported.  Occasional treats, small gifts, and special acknowledgement for a job well done can go a long way to keeping your volunteers interested and engaged in the organization’s ongoing mission.

Taking on volunteers is a big step for a non profit. Planning well makes it easier and more effective for everyone.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 4th, 2009 at and is filed under Nonprofit Management, Volunteer Management. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.