Recruiting Fundraising Volunteers Tips

Do you struggle with how to find, recruit and retain good fundraising volunteers? Here are a few helpful hints:  

1. Identify your needs — what is it you want volunteers to do – work at events, ask for gifts, help with planning etc. Make a list of all the ways you can use volunteers in your fundraising activities.
2. Prepare a job description for every volunteer position, outlining the time that is required of the volunteer, the special skills the volunteer needs, any expectations for their own financial contribution, etc.
3. Prepare a volunteer recruitment packet which includes the job description, information about your organization, and a list of current board members and other volunteers.
4. Identify potential volunteers from current donors, past board members, other volunteers in the organization who are not currently involved in fundraising activities.
5. Hold a brainstorming session with staff and review the volunteers positions you need filled, you will be amazed at how many connections your staff members have with potential volunteers.
6. Do the same session with your board and your development committee if you have one.
7. Network, network, network – attend Chamber of Commerce meetings, service and professional clubs; there are often great volunteers just waiting for the right organization to ask them!
8. Once you’ve recruited the volunteers, provide them with an orientation session designed to instill in volunteers a passion for your mission.
9. Provide training appropriate to each volunteer.
10. Acknowledge and recognize volunteers. Remember that stewardship is important. Let volunteers know how they are making a difference!

If you are interested in learning more about fundraising volunteers, be sure to read Linda Lysakowski's book, Recruiting and Training Fundraising Volunteers.

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