WISE COUNSEL FOR WORKING WITH VOLUNTEERS

This article about the cancellation of a volunteer-driven event in our community prompted quite a few thoughts about the relationship between volunteers and the organizations with which they serve. - Tammie Gitt

For organizations

Communicate the need for new volunteers long before there’s a crisis.

Communicate that need in variety of media.

Know what you need from volunteers.

Be prompt in returning inquiries from potential volunteers, offering specific information about what they will be asked to do and when.

Don’t be so desperate for volunteers that you say yes to anything.

For potential volunteers

Don’t wait for announcements. If you support an organization by attending its activities, see how you can be involved.

Be patient when waiting for responses from the organization.

Know what talents/skills you can bring to the organization.

Don’t be so desperate to serve that you say yes to anything.

I’m sure there’s more. I’m sure I could go into a little more detail about some of these and I might do that in future posts. What tips do you have for organizations or for potential volunteers?

Tammie Gitt is a youthworker for the Churches of God serving in Cumberland County PA. She writes an excellent blog called living3368