December 5th marks International Volunteer Day, a perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the unsung heroes who fuel your organization’s mission. As a volunteer manager, you might be wondering, “How can I truly express my gratitude?” You’re not alone in this challenge.
Lisa Sciorilli from Roadrunner Food Bank of New Mexico shares a common concern: “Each year, I spend countless hours trying to find the perfect words, gift, or event to convey how much their service has meant. And each year, I fear I fall short.”
While it’s impossible to fully repay volunteers for their invaluable contributions, here are five impactful ways to make them feel truly appreciated this International Volunteer Day (and beyond!)
Here are a few good ideas.
1. Harness the Power of Social Media
In our digital age, social media offers a quick and far-reaching way to celebrate your volunteers. Here’s how to make it count:
- Create a Social Media Blitz: Dedicate your social channels to volunteer appreciation on December 5th. Share heartfelt posts, volunteer spotlights, and impact stories.
- Pair Volunteers with Staff: The School District of Philadelphia suggests posting photos of volunteers alongside staff members, with the staff explaining how volunteers enhance their work.
- Share Beneficiary Stories: Ask those who directly benefit from volunteer efforts to share their experiences. For example, a parent could write about how a Girl Scout troop leader (a volunteer) positively impacted their child’s life.
- Go Live: Consider a live-streaming event to surprise volunteers in action. Nina Durning, a children’s pastor, describes their approach: “Livestream yourself surprising a volunteer in their classroom, presenting them with a thank-you card and a small gift. This not only appreciates the individual but also showcases volunteer impact to your wider audience.”
2. Host a Memorable Appreciation Event
Nothing beats face-to-face recognition. Here’s how to make your appreciation event stand out:
- Make it Special: The Town of Mount Pleasant in South Carolina holds an annual volunteer appreciation dinner. Recreation Director Steve Gergick emphasizes, “It’s a small token of our appreciation for their hard work and dedication.”
- Recognize Star Performers: Take a cue from Highland, California. Call out key volunteers by name and present them with unique gifts or raffle prizes.
- Combine Appreciation with Opportunity: Use the event to discuss future volunteer roles, like the Bureau of Land Management does. This shows volunteers they’re vital to your ongoing mission.
- Open it to the Public: Invite community members to join in celebrating volunteers. It’s a great way to showcase impact and potentially recruit new helpers.
4. Offer Exclusive Perks
Make volunteers feel like the VIPs they are with special privileges:
- Provide “Insider” Access: Offer volunteers special access to events, behind-the-scenes tours, or early registration for programs.
- Design Custom Merch: Karen Maldonado from Keep Texas Beautiful suggests, “Everyone loves a free t-shirt.” Create exclusive volunteer gear that they’ll be proud to wear.
5. Make It Personal
Amidst the grand gestures, don’t forget the power of personal connection:
- One-on-One Appreciation: Steven Moore, CEO of the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, emphasizes, “In this digital world, it’s more important than ever to express gratitude in ways that are personal and impactful.”
- Organize a Thank-a-thon: Barry Mael of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism recommends, “Ask each board member to call a certain number of volunteers to say thank you.”
- Immediate Gratitude: Don’t wait for special occasions. Thank volunteers promptly after they complete tasks, explaining how their service furthers your mission.
Remember, while International Volunteer Day is a fantastic opportunity to show appreciation, the best volunteer managers make gratitude a year-round practice. As community engagement consultant Jayne Cravens advises, “Don’t save these opportunities to express gratitude for one designated day. Celebrate International Volunteer Day, but let them know you’re grateful every day.”
By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only make your volunteers feel valued but also strengthen the backbone of your organization. After all, a appreciated volunteer is a committed volunteer. How will you celebrate your heroes this International Volunteer Day?