How can you turn volunteers into ambassadors for your cause?

1 Communicate your vision and impact

One of the most important steps to turn volunteers into ambassadors is to communicate your vision and impact clearly and consistently. Make sure your volunteers understand the purpose, goals, and values of your organization, and how their work contributes to achieving them. Share stories, testimonials, and data that show the positive outcomes of your programs and projects, and celebrate your successes and milestones with your volunteers. By communicating your vision and impact, you can inspire your volunteers to feel more connected, motivated, and proud of being part of your cause.

2 Provide training and support

Another key step to turn volunteers into ambassadors is to provide them with adequate training and support. Volunteers need to have the skills, knowledge, and confidence to perform their tasks effectively and safely, and to represent your organization professionally and ethically. Provide them with orientation, manuals, resources, feedback, and opportunities to learn and grow. Support them with regular check-ins, recognition, appreciation, and incentives. By providing training and support, you can empower your volunteers to feel more competent, valued, and satisfied with their work.

4 Equip them with tools and resources

A fourth step to turn volunteers into ambassadors is to equip them with tools and resources to spread the word about your cause. Volunteers can be your best marketers, fundraisers, and recruiters, if they have the right tools and resources to do so. Provide them with brochures, flyers, posters, stickers, badges, or other materials that showcase your brand and message. Create a website, blog, newsletter, social media accounts, or other platforms that share your stories, events, opportunities, and calls to action. Train them on how to use these tools and resources effectively, and how to communicate your cause clearly and persuasively. By equipping them with tools and resources, you can enable your volunteers to reach out to their networks, communities, and audiences, and generate more awareness, interest, and support for your cause.

5 Create a referral program

A fifth step to turn volunteers into ambassadors is to create a referral program that rewards them for bringing in new volunteers, donors, or partners. Referrals are one of the most powerful ways to grow your volunteer base, increase your donations, and expand your partnerships, as they rely on the trust and credibility of your existing volunteers. Create a referral program that recognizes and appreciates your volunteers for their efforts and contributions. Offer them incentives such as vouchers, gift cards, merchandise, or other benefits that match their interests and preferences. Track and measure the results of your referral program, and share them with your volunteers. By creating a referral program, you can motivate your volunteers to act as recruiters, fundraisers, and connectors for your cause.

6 Build a community

A sixth step to turn volunteers into ambassadors is to build a community that connects them with each other and with your organization. Volunteers want to feel part of something bigger than themselves, and to have fun, meaningful, and rewarding experiences. Build a community that nurtures and strengthens the bonds among your volunteers, and between your volunteers and your staff. Organize social events, outings, workshops, or other activities that allow your volunteers to network, learn, and have fun together. Create online groups, forums, or chats that enable your volunteers to communicate, collaborate, and share with each other. Show your appreciation and gratitude for your volunteers regularly, and celebrate their achievements and milestones. By building a community, you can create a sense of belonging, friendship, and joy among your volunteers.