How can you recognize volunteers who have overcome obstacles?

1 Share their stories

One of the best ways to recognize volunteers who have overcome obstacles is to share their stories with your audience. Whether it's on your website, social media, newsletter, or event, highlighting their personal journeys, challenges, and successes can showcase their impact and inspire others. You can also invite them to share their stories in their own words, either through written testimonials, videos, podcasts, or interviews. Make sure you ask for their permission and respect their privacy before sharing their stories.

2 Give them personalized feedback

Another way to recognize volunteers who have overcome obstacles is to give them personalized feedback on their performance and contribution. You can do this by sending them a thank-you note, email, or card, or by calling them or meeting them in person. Express your gratitude and appreciation for their work and acknowledge their specific skills, strengths, and achievements. You can also ask them for feedback on your program and how you can improve your support and communication with them.

3 Offer them opportunities for growth

A third way to recognize volunteers who have overcome obstacles is to offer them opportunities for growth and development. You can do this by providing them with training, mentoring, coaching, or networking opportunities that can help them enhance their skills, knowledge, and confidence. You can also invite them to take on new roles, responsibilities, or projects that can challenge them and showcase their potential. You can also connect them with other organizations, partners, or resources that can support their personal or professional goals.

5 Celebrate their milestones and successes

A fifth way to recognize volunteers who have overcome obstacles is to celebrate their milestones and successes with them and others. You can do this by organizing a special event, party, or ceremony that can bring together your volunteers, staff, beneficiaries, and supporters. You can also send them a gift, certificate, badge, or token of appreciation that can mark their achievements and express your gratitude. You can also feature them on your website, social media, newsletter, or media outlets and share their accomplishments and impact with your audience.

6 Support their well-being and resilience

A sixth way to recognize volunteers who have overcome obstacles is to support their well-being and resilience. You can do this by providing them with access to counseling, coaching, or peer support services that can help them cope with stress, trauma, or challenges. You can also create a culture of care, compassion, and empathy within your organization that can foster a sense of belonging and trust among your volunteers and staff. You can also encourage them to take care of themselves, practice self-care, and seek help when needed.

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?