At Give Lively, we are well aware that nonprofits cannot achieve their missions and create positive ripples in their communities without financial support. However, donated funds are not the only thing nonprofits need to meet their goals; donations in kind are also critical. Specifically, donated time is essential to nonprofits. 

About one-third of the nonprofit workforce is volunteers at present in the U.S. Unfortunately, statistics show (see the infographic below) that fewer people are volunteering, and for less time. And yet, nonprofits cannot achieve their missions without volunteers. 

• Volunteers walk dogs, provide loving foster homes for senior pets and drive hundreds of miles to transport animals out of disaster zones and into new homes.
• Volunteers advocate for public libraries at city council meetings and work weekly shifts reshelving books with a smile.
• Volunteers plant trees and pick up trash at their local parks. 
• Volunteers help the unhoused navigate the paperwork to apply for affordable shelter or other assistance programs.

When every dollar counts (as it definitely does), a nonprofit’s impact sometimes relies on people generous with their time and energy, motivated by causes close to their heart.

Volunteering also benefits those who step up. It builds social connections, supports causes aligned with their values, addresses community concerns and fosters learning about other people and cultures. 

While it’s unlikely that your organization’s volunteers are motivated by the promise of recognition each April, why not use Volunteer Appreciation Week to emphasize just how valuable and seen your enlistees are? It can go a long way toward reminding them that their presence, insight and generosity are the lifeblood of your organization, helping maintain engagement and spur recruitment. 

Here’s how you can appreciate your volunteers this week and every week.

Offer public recognition: 

• Take the time to celebrate volunteers during events and activities. Ask for a round of applause for their hard work in making things happen. 
• Feature volunteers and their stories on your organization’s website and in social media.
• Consider hosting volunteer recognition events, like a volunteer appreciation day. Provide snacks, donuts or homebaked items. 
• Create a dedicated volunteer impact report alongside the Annual Report to quantify volunteers’ impact.  

Make it personal: 

• A handwritten note means a lot. Include details about how an individual’s efforts made a difference.  
• Curate your appreciation events and activities according to the ages, interests and abilities of your volunteers. 
• Send birthday cards or admiration e-cards. 
• Partner with local vendors to provide gift cards as thank-you gifts. 
• Create merchandise that is only for volunteers so they feel camaraderie and can show off their involvement with your organization. 

Plan for the coming year: 

• If you haven’t already, use this week to develop a schedule for thanking volunteers throughout the year. No need to limit your thanks! 
• Send thank-you letters or emails after events.  
• Add volunteers to holiday card mailings or other outreach. 
• Provide advancement opportunities and additional training development for your most passionate and reliable volunteers.