How do you foster a sense of community and belonging among your volunteers in arts events?

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

Communication is key to building trust and rapport with your volunteers. Make sure they know what to expect, what their roles and responsibilities are, and how to contact you or other staff members if they have any questions or issues. Use different channels and methods to communicate, such as email, phone, social media, newsletters, or face-to-face meetings. Keep them updated on the progress and goals of the event, and acknowledge their contributions and feedback.

2 Provide training and support

Volunteers need to feel confident and competent in their tasks and duties. Provide them with adequate training and orientation before the event, and offer them ongoing support and guidance during the event. Assign them a mentor or a buddy who can help them with any challenges or concerns. Provide them with clear instructions, resources, and tools to perform their roles effectively. Encourage them to ask for help or clarification if they need it.

3 Recognize and appreciate

Volunteers want to feel valued and appreciated for their efforts and impact. Recognize and thank them personally and publicly, and show them how their work makes a difference to the event and the community. You can also use different ways to show your appreciation, such as certificates, letters, gifts, awards, or vouchers. Celebrate their achievements and milestones, and invite them to join post-event gatherings or feedback sessions.

4 Create a sense of belonging

Volunteers need to feel connected and engaged with the event and each other. Create a sense of belonging by fostering a friendly and inclusive culture among your volunteers. Introduce them to each other, and encourage them to interact and collaborate. Create opportunities for them to socialize and network, such as icebreakers, games, or social events. Highlight their diversity and strengths, and respect their opinions and preferences.

5 Empower and involve

Volunteers need to feel empowered and involved in the event and the organization. Empower and involve them by giving them some autonomy and flexibility in their roles, and allowing them to use their creativity and initiative. Solicit their input and feedback, and involve them in decision-making or problem-solving processes. Share your vision and mission with them, and invite them to join future events or projects.

6 Learn and grow

Volunteers need to feel that they are learning and growing from their experience. Learn and grow with them by providing them with opportunities to develop new skills, knowledge, or interests. Offer them training, mentoring, or coaching sessions, or connect them with other experts or resources. Encourage them to reflect on their experience, and provide them with constructive feedback and recognition. Help them identify their goals and aspirations, and support them in achieving them.

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?