“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” ~Sherry Anderson
As a private, public or non-profit organization, it is essential to remember that those who volunteer have decided to use their gifts and talents within your organization for the following reasons:
Your organization has caught our attention. People volunteer with your organization because it aligns with their beliefs and values. Be honest about the good and the bad within the organization upfront. It allows them to choose how they want to serve.
Their gifts, talents, and skills can be used to enhance your organization. They are not looking to compete with you or take your spot within the organization; their experience, ideas, and training can help elevate your organization in many ways. After years of leading, some need/want a break from being responsible for others for a while.
Just because volunteers have free time doesn’t mean it can or should be abused. As an organization, don’t waste your volunteer’s time with meetings that are not efficient. They value their free time. They don’t mind giving it; make sure what they are volunteering for is worthwhile.
Effective communication is critical. One way to run volunteers off is by ignoring their texts and emails or not responding to them within a reasonable timeframe. Everyone is busy with life and work. Respect your volunteer’s time and make time to respond.
Acknowledge them. Let your volunteers know you “see” and value them. This can be done by acknowledging their hard work, gifts, skills, and talent or what they bring to the table, no matter how unique.
People volunteer for free. However, if there are circumstances where paying a volunteer for their services or work is warranted, then do so.
As a volunteer, what are some things you would like the organizations you volunteer with to pay attention to?
Feel free to comment below.
You will never know how your voice can make an impact.
Who is She?
I am a Wife, Mom, Daughter, Full Time Employee, Friend and Change Agent that has been succeeding, failing and winging it for years. Although I am not perfect, I do know that God has been guiding my path along the way in each journey. No matter how good or bad my experiences may be or have been, I know they serve a purpose. What is that purpose? To show you that you are not taking this journey called life alone.
Over the years I have met phenomenal women with stories that you would not believe unless you heard them yourself. I created the SheSpeakz platform as a way to “Speak Life” into ourselves and those around us. SheSpeakz is a way to tell our stories and encourage women to embrace their journeys. At times it may be uncomfortable but there is someone who needs to hear your truth. I love meeting other people, listening to others about their life experiences, making connections and helping others make connections. When women collaborate with and support other women, amazing things happen.
Some of my passions are leadership/personal development, empowering women to be themselves, mentoring, public speaking, baking, traveling, writing my blog and spending time with my family and friends.
I currently reside in the San Antonio, Texas area with my spouse and our two active children.
My call to action for you as a reader is to embrace who you are and know that you are enough. We all can use a little improvement in some areas of our lives but don’t let that stop you from loving yourself and being the best you. I also ask that you take the time to encourage and support one another. In this delicate time, we can all use positivity in our lives. I also ask that you are intentional about making a positive impact in the lives of those around you and in your local communities. Use your talents that you have been given to change the world one good deed at a time.
You can communicate with me on the following platforms:
Follow me on Instagram: @theshespeakz
Email: theshespeakz@gmail.com
Thank you for stopping by, I look forward to our journey together.
Neek
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SheSpeakz 