Tips & Tricks
At Volunteer Pembina Valley, we appreciate just how difficult it
can be to attract and recruit talented, dependable volunteers.
Regardless of your volunteer needs, chances are we can help find people
to satisfy them.
Part of the challenge of recruiting volunteers is
figuring out how to run a great volunteer program so you can retain the
volunteers you've already engaged. Volunteer Pembina Valley understands
how hard it can be to run a successful program and we're here to help.
Get Tips &
Tricks
- Be prepared – Gather any necessary supplies
and clear a workspace in advance of your volunteers' arrival. Once
they arrive, don't keep them waiting. If you expect punctuality, lead
by example.
- Make volunteers feel welcome – When you
first meet your volunteers, offer a tour of the office or event area,
make coffee or water available, and don't be afraid to show your
enthusiasm.
- Introduce volunteers to other staff members
– Part of feeling comfortable in a new place means knowing a few
names. Casually introduce your volunteers to co-workers and other
volunteers before engaging them in their volunteer opportunity.
- Set expectations – Be clear with your
volunteers about what is expected of them. Tell them what you need
accomplished and act as a resource should they have questions or
concerns.
- Train sufficiently – Your volunteers are
excited to help out. Remember, they found you and want to contribute
their time to your organization. Make sure they have the tools
necessary to succeed.
- Give them a purpose – Be realistic when
assigning tasks to volunteers. No one wants to stand around because
there isn't enough work to be done. If it looks like volunteers are
idle, either send a few home, or think of a new project they can work
on instead.
- Be honest – Don't be afraid to tell your
volunteers exactly what your organization needs.
- Create ground rules – Volunteers are eager
to help, and while they aren't actual employees, they may still need
to adhere to general organizational policies. Make sure you relate any
important rules or guidelines before your volunteers get started.
- Set time parameters for service – Most
people have a busy schedule and volunteers are no exception. Let your
volunteers know how long their help will be needed so they can plan
their day accordingly.
- Show appreciation – Congratulate your
volunteers on a job well done. Sometimes a simple gesture of thanks is
sufficient. For volunteers who contribute their time consistently or
have made a strong impact on your organization, consider giving them a
card or taking them out to lunch.
Hide Tips &
Tricks
How To Register
Becoming a Volunteer Pembina Valley member is not only a great
idea, it takes less than 15 minutes.
- Create a personal profile
- Add your organization
- Add volunteer opportunities
- Select a service level
- Verify your email address
Register Now
How It Works
The VolunteerPembinaValley.com network connects volunteers with
Community Organizations. Every day, volunteers search this website for
opportunities in their community. When volunteers see your listing, they
simply click on it to connect with your organization and get involved.
Who Can Register
- Community Organizations
- Non-Profit Organizations
- Special Events
- Health Care Facilities
- Schools
- Church Organizations
- Cultural Organizations
- Emergency Response Groups
- Any group or organization looking for volunteers
Register Now
