A few days ago, we talked about how to get started on a community needs assessment. Today, we’re proud to share the first in a series of guides for creating a volunteer management program.
The guide comes from a collaboration between HandsOn Network, Points of Light and Top Nonprofits - who have some really great resources to share with nonprofits that are just starting out or have been around for a while. We’re really proud of the resource and we’re looking forward to sharing more of them in the future!
Be sure to tell us what you think of the resource in the comments and let us know what you’d like to see next!
You can download the image as a PDF from Top Nonprofits and check out more of their resources on their site!!
Effectively evaluating your volunteer program is important to ensuring the completion of your organization’s service goals. Evaluations can be done as often as necessary, but they should be a part of your volunteer program.
evaluation, whether or not the program is supporting the organization’s goals.
Recruiting volunteers is the first step to a successful volunteer program within your organization. Training your volunteers to be an effective part of your organization is equally important.
and weaknesses.
April is a day to get involved in raising awareness. Why? Today is 
making a difference are 
When others ask you about it you can tell them to help show support for the cause.
In case you have just awoken from winter hibernation, spring has finally arrived! From the high levels of pollen to the newborn animals running around spring is in full swing and will not be ignored. Since we cannot hide from it, it is time to celebrate the new spring season with volunteer work (we would not be 
Keeping your community beautiful is a great way to better your economy, environment and well-being. This month get out and take pride in your community’s appearance. Let’s clean up our neighborhoods and make every month Keep America Beautiful Month!
Specialist for HandsOn University.
Fortunately, there is now a big push to help communities across the country tap the incredible skills so many volunteers have to offer. In 2008 the 
Be flexible and show respect. It would be great if people with needed skills were willing to devote themselves to one charity, or solely to volunteerism, but they probably need to spend the majority of their time working on paid projects or looking for work. Give the volunteers specific tasks and short-term projects that require only a few hours per day or a few months of their time and make sure their important contribution is recognized. The obvious way to do this would be individual praise, but write-ups on the charity’s Web site or Facebook page or in an electronic newsletter to supporters can show appreciation. Let volunteers see how their work helps move the organization forward. Those “rewards” aid in continued motivation and retention.
s. This idea incorporates the concept of Neighboring, or the idea that communities – especially those in underserved and under resourced areas – should be engaged in their own change, not have solutions scripted for them by outsiders. As we engage our children and students this holiday season, it’s important to think deeply about this model. When you are out purchasing food, clothing, toys, or other goods to donate to holiday collections, or participating in service with organizations to create change, what can you do to extend the connection with the populations on the receiving end?
So you want to start a classroom volunteer project? How on Earth do you begin a service project especially with young kids and very little time to stray away from lesson plans? Here are some project ideas for all types of ages and schedules:
small children really do learn the power of giving back by participating in service projects.
