How do you balance the budget and the quality of volunteer recognition awards in times of crisis?

To balance the budget and quality of volunteer recognition awards, start by assessing your needs and goals. Determine the objectives and outcomes of your volunteer program and evaluate volunteer performance and impact. Understand volunteers' expectations and preferences for recognition and align the awards with your organization's values and culture. For example, if volunteers value public acknowledgment, consider affordable yet meaningful awards like certificates or shout-outs at events. This approach helps identify the most appropriate types, frequency, and criteria for recognition awards that suit your situation.

From my time working with volunteers, what really meant the most was how we recognized them instead of what we gave them. We found a higher level of volunteer satisfaction when we shared our appreciation as a social media post, blog post or publicly during one of our events then physically giving them something… like a plaque or award.

The second step is to explore diverse and creative options for volunteer recognition awards. Beyond traditional awards like plaques or gift cards, consider low-cost alternatives such as thank-you notes, personalized emails, video messages, social media shout-outs, badges, stickers, or tokens. You can also vary the format and delivery, opting for individual or group recognition, formal or informal, public or private, and online or offline. Example: Instead of a traditional plaque, you could create a heartfelt video message featuring team members expressing their gratitude, shared via social media to publicly acknowledge the volunteer's contributions. This approach is meaningful and cost-effective.

The third step is to involve volunteers and stakeholders in designing and implementing recognition awards. Gather feedback, suggestions, and ideas from volunteers, staff, board members, donors, partners, and beneficiaries. You can also include them in the nomination, selection, and presentation processes. **Example:** Host a survey asking volunteers and stakeholders to suggest award categories or criteria, then invite them to participate in a virtual ceremony where they can help present the awards. This approach ensures the awards are meaningful and relevant, fostering a sense of ownership and community.

I agree with this sentiment, however, I would encourage anyone working with volunteers on a consistent basis to have more personal touch points with their volunteers. Yes, a survey email is great, but taking the time to sit down with your longtime volunteers and ask their feedback speaks volumes to how much you value their opinions.

The fourth step is to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of your volunteer recognition awards. Use tools like surveys, interviews, focus groups, or testimonials to gather feedback from volunteers and stakeholders. Additionally, track indicators such as retention rates, satisfaction levels, productivity, and impact scores to measure outcomes. **Example:** After a recognition event, you could send a survey to volunteers asking about their satisfaction with the awards and any suggestions for improvement. Analyze the data to identify strengths and areas for enhancement, allowing you to adjust the recognition program as needed.

Volunteer recognition is a GREAT sponsorship opportunity. Asking your event sponsors to underwrite awards and gifts for your volunteers offers a meaningful way for them to support your organization AND CELEBRATE your volunteers!

The fifth step is to seek external support and resources for your volunteer recognition awards. Leverage your network and partnerships to identify potential sponsors, donors, or collaborators who can offer financial or in-kind support. Additionally, research and apply for grants, awards, or recognition programs from external organizations. Joining or creating peer groups, forums, or networks can also provide access to best practices and resources. **Example:** Partner with a local business to sponsor gift cards for top volunteers, or apply for a grant that funds community engagement initiatives. This not only enhances your recognition program but also builds valuable community connections.

The sixth and final step is to celebrate and communicate your success. Use various channels like newsletters, blogs, podcasts, webinars, and reports to showcase your volunteers' achievements. Additionally, promote your recognition awards and program through social media, press releases, media interviews, or events. **Example:** Share a blog post highlighting the stories of outstanding volunteers, and amplify it with social media posts and a press release. This not only celebrates your volunteers' contributions but also enhances your organization's visibility and reputation, attracting more volunteers and supporters.