How can you creatively recognize and reward fellow volunteers?

1 Share their stories

One of the best ways to recognize and reward fellow volunteers is to share their stories with the world. You can write a blog post, a newsletter article, a social media post, or a testimonial that highlights their achievements, challenges, and motivations. You can also include photos, videos, quotes, or anecdotes that showcase their personality and impact. Sharing their stories not only celebrates their contributions, but also inspires others to join or support the cause.

2 Give them feedback

Another way to recognize and reward fellow volunteers is to give them feedback on their work. You can send them a thank-you note, a certificate, a badge, or a sticker that expresses your gratitude and appreciation. You can also provide them with constructive and specific feedback that helps them improve their skills, learn from their mistakes, and grow as volunteers. Giving them feedback not only acknowledges their efforts, but also motivates them to continue or excel.

4 Surprise them with gifts

A fourth way to recognize and reward fellow volunteers is to surprise them with gifts that are meaningful, useful, or fun. You can give them a personalized mug, a tote bag, a book, or a plant that reflects their personality, hobbies, or values. You can also give them a gift card, a voucher, a ticket, or a subscription that allows them to enjoy their favorite activities, products, or services. Surprising them with gifts not only delights them, but also shows them that you care.

5 Celebrate with them

A fifth way to recognize and reward fellow volunteers is to celebrate with them. You can organize a party, a picnic, a game night, or a movie night that brings them together and fosters a sense of community. You can also plan a trip, a retreat, a workshop, or a volunteer appreciation day that rewards them with relaxation, fun, or learning. Celebrating with them not only honors their achievements, but also strengthens your bonds.

6 Ask for their input

A sixth way to recognize and reward fellow volunteers is to ask for their input on how to improve the volunteer program, the organization, or the cause. You can conduct a survey, a focus group, a brainstorming session, or a feedback forum that solicits their opinions, suggestions, or concerns. You can also involve them in decision-making, problem-solving, or innovation processes that tap into their expertise, experience, or perspective. Asking for their input not only respects their voice, but also enhances your impact.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?