How to Engage Volunteers Amid the Pandemic

The pandemic has brought a flood of new challenges to navigate, and it has also forced nonprofits to evolve their engagement with volunteers. Volunteers are recruited, trained, and placed in a much different manner than they once were. The pandemic has led to a significant decline in the ability to fulfill services, while the demands for these services has increased. Many organizations are now operating on a virtual level. With the new way of operating or the concern of becoming ill or exposing others, organizations have lost many volunteers. However, there are still individuals who want to help in person or virtually.

A New Way to Engage

How are you implementing new ways to engage volunteers safely and healthily? First and foremost, be sure to protect your organization from financial devastation with NJ Nonprofit Insurance, then you can learn how to adjust your practices such as:

• Preparing for workforce shortages
• Training new volunteers
• Developing new opportunities
• Adjusting training to online

Some organizations have implemented virtual strategies that can solve nonprofit volunteer challenges. Volunteers are being trained to determine problems, organize and follow through with fundraising. Volunteers are now turning to Zoom to host calls. They are also writing letters and sending emails. Consider having volunteers write a statement or speak on the importance of your mission. Volunteers can also put together a virtual gathering for supporters to make masks and other items for distribution. Some fun events that volunteers can host and facilitate:

• Group fitness events
• Walk/runs
• Bike rides
• Webinars about best practices
• Webinars regarding ways to help those who need services

Take the time to give volunteers a special thank you during this period, whether with a small gift or with a message highlighting their impact. Give a shout-out to volunteers during special events and feature them in advertisements. Encourage all to call or message others with inspiration and support.

Other Considerations

It is helpful to be creative and think out of the box concerning volunteers during this time. Be sure to stick to social distance guidelines and speak to volunteers about how they are feeling. Volunteers who want to work in person can continue doing so in small groups with masks. To check-in with everyone, you can hold meetings in a combination of Zoom and in-person. Continue to encourage volunteers to check on others and donate supplies and support the organization however they can, even if that is just being an open ear, delivering a meal, or shopping locally. Volunteers are needed more than ever to help others at this time. The virus is still among us, and we are all dealing with it to the best of our abilities.

About David G. Sayles Insurance Services

At David G. Sayles Insurance Services, we help our clients decide which of these options is best for them based on their current situation and risk factors.  Contact us at 1-855-977-1842 or insureme@dsayles.mysites.io for a consultation!