In honor of all the wonderful volunteers who support our nonprofit clients, I have identified five ways to engage volunteers to cultivate a pipeline of leaders and donors for your organization’s future. As a recent graduate, young professional at Latz and Company, and a brand-new resident in the great city of Chicago, this blog reflects on what a young adult seeks when volunteering with a nonprofit. It is important to note that these are applicable to all ages to better connect volunteers to the mission your nonprofit serves.

1. Welcoming Environment

Be sure the immediate feeling volunteers get when they interface with your organization is that they are wanted and valued. Find small opportunities to create an inclusive environment where all people, no matter their age, feel welcomed to participate and grow the good.

2. Eliminate Barriers

From TikToks to fast food, we are a society of convenience, so be sure to eliminate any barriers to volunteering. Some barriers to identify within your organization might include:

How difficult is it to sign up as a volunteer?
Are we providing any instructions besides for a date and time?
What is parking like near my organization?
Are there any training requirements?
How is this being communicated?
What kind of attire is expected?
How is this being communicated?

All these questions are good things to consider when asking for volunteers.

3. Create Community

A lot of time, volunteering elicits a sense of purpose, but it can also foster comradery as it is an opportunity to bring many people together to serve the same mission. The community aspect is very important to most people but offers a special opportunity to engage post-graduate students as they are newly launched into the business world after leaving the comfort of their college friends. Having a volunteer opportunity with an after-service drink at a local restaurant is a great way to bring volunteers together and to partner with a neighboring business.

4. Competitions

Everyone loves to compete, so harness that energy by offering a volunteer opportunity of high engagement. Be sure to include a prize or some sort of recognition at the end or the winners that had the most impact for your organization. Young adults may not be able to contribute financially, but you can engage them now in volunteering through competitions that show how to make an impact with all kinds of engagement.

5. Social Media Representation

Do you have a fabulous champion in your organization who is showing up often to make a difference?Recognize your volunteers, employees, clients, or anyone doing something special by posting a shoutout on social media to display the importance of these champions to your organization. We would love to hear what other ways you engage young professionals as volunteers by responding below.

-- Lydia Schwerin, Client Services Associate

To learn more about volunteering, please contact Latz & Company professionals at: 888.949.LATZ (5289) info@latzandco.com.