How do you create a volunteer training program?

2 Define your objectives

The next step is to define the objectives of your volunteer training program. These are the specific and measurable outcomes that you want to achieve through your training. They should align with your organization's mission, vision, and values, as well as the expectations and goals of your volunteers. You should also consider how you will evaluate the effectiveness and impact of your training, and what indicators and tools you will use to measure them. For example, you can use quizzes, tests, surveys, or feedback forms to assess the learning outcomes, satisfaction, and retention of your volunteers.

3 Design your curriculum

The third step is to design your curriculum, which is the content and structure of your volunteer training program. You need to decide what topics and modules you will cover, how you will sequence and organize them, how long and how often you will deliver them, and what methods and materials you will use. You should also consider the level of difficulty and complexity of your content, and how to balance the theoretical and practical aspects of your training. You can use various formats and modes of delivery, such as online, face-to-face, blended, or self-paced, depending on your resources, objectives, and audience.

4 Develop your materials

The fourth step is to develop your materials, which are the resources and tools that you will use to deliver your volunteer training program. You need to create or adapt the materials that match your curriculum, objectives, and methods. For example, you can use slides, videos, podcasts, handouts, manuals, guides, checklists, or worksheets to present your content. You should also create or select the activities, exercises, games, or simulations that will engage your volunteers and reinforce their learning. You should also ensure that your materials are clear, concise, consistent, and relevant, and that they follow the best practices of instructional design and adult learning.

5 Implement your program

The fifth step is to implement your volunteer training program, which is the process of delivering your training to your volunteers. You need to plan and prepare the logistics, such as the location, date, time, equipment, and registration of your training. You should also communicate the details and expectations of your training to your volunteers, and confirm their attendance and participation. You should also facilitate and monitor the delivery of your training, and provide guidance, feedback, and support to your volunteers. You should also be flexible and adaptable to any changes or challenges that may arise during your training.