Recruit Reliable Volunteers for Your Nonprofit
5 Proven Ways to Recruit Reliable Volunteers for Your Nonprofit
Volunteers are the heart and hands of so many nonprofit organizations — but finding good, reliable people to show up and stick around can be one of the biggest ongoing challenges for nonprofit leaders. According to Volunteer Hub, about one-third of volunteers quit within a year, often because they don’t feel connected or clear on how they’re helping.
So how can you build a volunteer base that shows up, stays engaged, and supports your mission for the long haul? Start here:
Make It Easy to Say Yes
Many people want to help — but if your signup process is complicated, they’ll move on. Keep your recruitment clear and friction-free:
- Have an online volunteer application form that’s simple.
- Post clear role descriptions: what, when, where, how long.
- Offer multiple ways to sign up — online, by phone, or in person.
Tip: Promote small, one-off tasks too — some people are more likely to test the waters first.
Share Real Stories
People volunteer when they feel their time makes a difference. Share short, real impact stories on your website, in newsletters, and on social media.
Use photos, volunteer testimonials, or quotes from people your nonprofit serves. When potential volunteers see the direct impact they can have, they’re far more likely to sign up.
Meet Them Where They Are
Don’t wait for volunteers to find you — go where they already are:
- Connect with local schools, colleges, and youth groups.
- Ask local businesses if you can share volunteer flyers in breakrooms.
- Reach out to faith communities and service clubs — many groups love to volunteer together.
- Post on local community Facebook pages or volunteer match websites.
Create a Welcoming Onboarding Process
First impressions count. A warm, organized welcome goes a long way:
- Greet new volunteers personally.
- Give them a quick orientation: who you are, what you do, why it matters.
- Pair them with a more experienced volunteer if possible.
- Follow up after their first shift to say thank you and invite them back.
When people feel valued and prepared, they’re far more likely to return.
Recognize and Appreciate
Volunteers give their time freely — so show your gratitude often.
- Send a quick thank-you email or text after a shift.
- Celebrate milestones — hours served, years of service.
- Highlight volunteers on your website or social media.
- Consider small tokens of appreciation like thank-you cards, certificates, or a casual volunteer appreciation event.
Remember: Appreciated volunteers are repeat volunteers.
Final Thoughts
Reliable volunteers don’t appear by accident — they come from clear communication, easy sign-ups, meaningful work, and heartfelt appreciation. Invest a little extra time into recruitment and recognition now, and you’ll build a team that keeps showing up to help your mission thrive for years to come.
