How To Get Volunteers
Finding volunteers is not always easy. A lot of times people see volunteering as a ‘black hole’ from which they will never emerge. And sure, that can happen… I’m not going to lie. However, trying to find that balance so they don’t always feel like they ‘have’ to help is crucial. I’m going to go through the different ways that I find my volunteers. I hope this is helpful to you.
At the beginning of each school year, we have a table set up for the PTC. I have a form made up for the different positions we are looking to fill. Everything from ‘chairpersons’ to ‘just call’ for each event/spot we have available. Some people will check everything and some will just check one small event as a helper. (Be grateful for every bit of help you get.) I have been lucky with volunteers. Most of mine have been along for the ride with me since my oldest was young. One year, we gave really cute tote bags with our school name and mascot on it away to people who signed up. This next school year, I believe I am going to set up a coffee and tea service to entice people to visit our table:) People love coffee and freebies:)
There will be times that you run low on volunteer help because let’s face it, we are all running in twenty different directions at times. That is when I turn to my alternate resources. And I have a few.
My first stop for alternative volunteers is our high school’s National Honor Society. They are always looking for community hours. I have used them many times over the years and this year, I have had at least a couple at each of our swim meets this season. Get in touch with your high school and ask them for the NHS Sponsor or Coordinator’s name and email address. At our school, it’s a teacher. Get in touch with the sponsor and tell them what you need. It’s best to do this at least a month ahead of time. I’m not saying you can’t do it last minute but you’ll have better results if doing it well ahead of time. These kids are reliable and they know you will be reporting back to their sponsor:) Also, your middle school or junior high may have their own Honor Society that you could utilize for smaller jobs but it’s very helpful to know you have that option, too.
The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are other resources that I have used many times, especially for our Santa Breakfast. They have helped us with games, cleaning/wiping tables down, serving and runners. Like the NHS, they need a certain amount of service hours. Your school may know who to get in touch with your local den. If not, just Google for your local Boy or Girl Scout troop.
Several years ago, I discovered a way to get volunteers AND make extra money. Kohls Cares is a program that Kohls Department store gives back to their community. Your organization must benefit children from birth up to 18 years old and have a 501(c)(3) status first off. Also, at least five Kohls team members must sign up to volunteer for your event and serve at least a three hour (consecutive) shift. Not only do you get your volunteers, but Kohls will donate $500 to your organization. Doesn’t get much better than that does it?:)
Some of our local churches require their youth members to log a certain amount of community hours. The kids that have helped us in the past from the churches have been middle school age (12-15 yrs old). Just get in touch with the youth pastors.
Lastly, some schools and organizations will swap volunteers for volunteers. In other words, they will send volunteers from their organization or clubs and in return your organization will volunteer for them when needed. It’s a great swap. Helping each other.
As you can see, there are many ways to fill that volunteer void. Just make sure you ask well in advance so you get optimal results. By treating your volunteers well and with respect, people will be more inclined to help you again. Oh, and don’t forget the Thank You note!:)
Speak soon!
take care,
~kat
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