5 Sure-Fire Ways to Recruit More Holiday Volunteers
The holidays boast a range of volunteer needs > from bell ringers to service project doers, from class party helpers to fundraiser volunteers, the list goes on. Boost turnout and participation with these go-to tips & ideas:
1. Use free online sign-ups: Set up an online schedule or volunteer calendar so the opportunity to sign-up and offer to help is more available to everyone during the hectic holiday season. 24/7 access from a computer or mobile device makes it easy for everyone to get involved, and automated reminders keep everyone on track. Try it for free now
2. Socialize your need: Spread the word about your organization's special holiday service needs - tweet about it, post on facebook, even Instagram and pin it! Don't have active social communities, connect with organization members who do and make them ambassadors of your message and opportunities.
Related: Tweeting for Help, 8 Best Practices
3. Don't forget about your website: Those volunteers looking to serve this season will seek you out - and they'll do it online! These are the folks you really want to capture and bring on board. Don't forget to put links to your online sign-ups right from your website. Display upcoming volunteer opportunities very visibly too along with contact info and links to social channels for new-comers to learn more.
Related: 10 Ways to Pump Up Your Volunteer Webpage
4. Invite volunteers to invite others: The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends, and what better way to boost turnout for your holiday service project then to encourage volunteers to bring others with them! This warm introduction to your organization will encourage new-comers to return again on their own.
5. Be specific about what you need: The holidays can be chaotic so help your volunteers out by being specific about what is needed, i.e. exact dates and shift times, tasks to be completed, donations to be collected. People serve because they want to feel like they are helping others - giving them real jobs and goals helps them acheive satisfaction in making a difference.
Also see:
6 Things to Say to Grow Your Volunteer Base
