How can you foster volunteer engagement and retention through ownership?

2 Provide them with training and support

Another way to foster ownership among your volunteers is to provide them with training and support to develop their skills and confidence. Offer them opportunities to learn new things, take on new roles, and challenge themselves. Provide them with the resources, tools, and guidance they need to perform their tasks effectively and safely. Recognize their achievements and celebrate their growth. By providing them with training and support, you show them that you care about their personal and professional development, and that they have a potential to grow with your program.

3 Recognize and reward them

A third way to foster ownership among your volunteers is to recognize and reward them for their efforts and contributions. Express your gratitude and appreciation regularly and sincerely. Highlight their stories and successes on your website, newsletter, or social media. Nominate them for awards or certificates. Give them tokens of recognition, such as pins, badges, or gift cards. Invite them to special events or gatherings. By recognizing and rewarding them, you show them that you acknowledge their impact and value, and that they have a place in your program's community.

4 Encourage them to connect and collaborate

A fourth way to foster ownership among your volunteers is to encourage them to connect and collaborate with each other and with your staff. Create a positive and inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome and respected. Facilitate communication and feedback among your team members. Organize team-building activities, social events, or networking opportunities. Encourage peer mentoring, coaching, or support. By encouraging them to connect and collaborate, you show them that you trust and respect them as partners, and that they have a role in your program's mission.

5 Inspire them with your vision and values

A fifth way to foster ownership among your volunteers is to inspire them with your vision and values. Communicate your program's purpose, goals, and impact clearly and consistently. Share your stories, testimonials, or data that demonstrate your program's relevance and effectiveness. Align your actions and decisions with your values and principles. Involve your volunteers in creating or revising your vision and values statements. By inspiring them with your vision and values, you show them that you are passionate and committed to your cause, and that they have a purpose in your program.

6 Challenge them with feedback and goals

A sixth way to foster ownership among your volunteers is to challenge them with feedback and goals. Provide them with constructive and timely feedback on their performance and areas for improvement. Help them set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals that align with their interests and abilities. Monitor their progress and offer them support and encouragement. Celebrate their achievements and help them overcome their challenges. By challenging them with feedback and goals, you show them that you expect and support their excellence, and that they have a potential to make a difference in your program.

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?