Recruiting volunteers is not just about filling a signup sheet. It is about building a passionate, engaged community around your mission. Whether you are planning a major conference, running a membership drive, or launching a new initiative, having the right volunteers in place can make all the difference. But where do you find them, and more importantly, how do you keep them?
Let’s dive into where and how to recruit volunteers, with creative volunteer recruitment strategies inspired by real-world experience supporting SBI Association Management clients like ADRP, SACUBO, and WRPA.
Where to Recruit Volunteers?
Tap Into Your Members
Your members are already invested in your mission. Many just need a little nudge to get involved. For example, ADRP encourages its members to volunteer for committees and conference support by promoting opportunities during webinars, newsletters, and annual meetings.
Colleges and Universities
Work with student organizations and career centers. WRPA has successfully recruited event volunteers from local parks and recreation degree programs by offering internship credits and valuable hands-on event experience.
Corporate Partners
Leverage your sponsors and corporate members. SACUBO has seen success asking corporate sponsors to provide employee volunteers for conference registration desks and event logistics, creating a win-win relationship.
Volunteer Match Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch, Idealist.org, or even local volunteer centers are great places to find individuals actively seeking nonprofit involvement. It also helps diversify your volunteer base beyond your membership.
Event Attendees
Do not overlook your own events. WRPA captures future volunteers by offering a simple “Get Involved” form at their registration table and following up after events.
How to Recruit Volunteers Creatively
Create a Volunteer Brand
Inspire people to be part of something bigger. Give your volunteer program a fun identity. ADRP calls its core volunteers “Champions” and gives them special ribbons and shout-outs during events. Little touches like this make volunteering feel like joining a special club.
Host a Volunteer Social
Before big events like the SACUBO Annual Meeting, SBI has helped organize casual volunteer meetups. Whether virtual or in person, these gatherings build excitement and help new volunteers feel more comfortable.
Get Specific With Roles
Be clear about what you need. Instead of saying “we need help,” list specific roles like “Social Media Assistant,” “Session Room Monitor,” or “Sponsorship Support.” Volunteers are more likely to say yes when they know exactly what they are signing up for.
Use Testimonials and Storytelling
Share real volunteer experiences. WRPA regularly features volunteer stories in their newsletters and on social media, showing how volunteering helped people build their careers or expand their networks.
Recognize and Reward
Never underestimate the power of a thank you. SACUBO highlights volunteers at their conferences with special badges and public recognition, while ADRP sends handwritten thank you notes to volunteers after major events. A little appreciation goes a long way in building loyalty.
Purposeful Volunteer Recruitment Strategies
People want to do more than just help. They want to feel like they are making a real impact. When you clearly show how volunteer time makes a difference, you build a team that is motivated, excited, and proud to stand behind your mission.
Whether you are a large association like SACUBO, or a passionate network like ADRP or WRPA, these creative ways to recruit volunteerscan help you build a dedicated team of ambassadors for your organization.
If you are ready to strengthen your volunteer recruitment strategy, SBI’s experienced team can help. Contact us today to learn more about our customized support for volunteer management, events, and nonprofit growth.
