Volunteers rarely get thanked enough for what they do. Read these 5 quick tips on how to encourage them.
1. Say Yes When They Ask for Your Help.
We have all been taught that a key to time management is learning how to say NO. However, when it comes to serving our volunteers, we need to say YES whenever we can. If one of your leaders calls you for help with a task, try to say, “Yes” and take it as an opportunity to support that relationship.
2. Give Them Permission to Take a Break.
Sometimes, your most faithful teammates are on the brink of burn out because they feel like the organization can’t afford for them to take a week or two off, to skip an activity, etc. Have a personal conversation with some of your most dedicated volunteers and ask them….no, TELL them….that you want them to take a week off every now and then.
3. Don’t Just Give Them a Break, Pay for It!
In addition to giving them freedom to take a week off, give them a couple movie passes or a Starbucks card. Encourage them to actually use the gift during the time they would normally be serving. There is something really rewarding about sitting in a movie theater or sipping a hot drink at the very same time you would normally be logging your volunteer hours.
4. Ask Your Executive Director to Brag on Them.
Every now and then, give your Director the names of one or two of your leaders and ask him/her to pull them aside at some point and brag on them. Ask him/her to say something like, “Joe, I was talking to (insert your name here) the other day, and she couldn’t quit talking about how thankful she is for your role in our volunteer organization. I just wanted to thank you for serving so faithfully.”
5. Remember the Little Things.
Send an anniversary card. Call to wish them a happy birthday. Send their child a get-well card when sick. Shoot an e-mail congratulating them on their promotion. Remembering the little things makes a big impact.
Adapted from 5 Easy Ways to Encourage Volunteers by Kurt Johnston.
Learn more at https://www.churchleaders.com/youth/youth-leaders-how-tos/150614-5-easy-ways-to-encourage-volunteers.html