What satisfies and motivates one person, may not motivate another. Determine what type of recognition would be most meaningful to each volunteer. Some may appreciate a public ceremony, while others will better appreciate a small private one. Rewards are one way of recognizing volunteers. They are long-term motivators and include thanks and praise, giving more responsibility and reference letters.
Awards are another way of showing appreciation for a job well done.
Consider Certificates of Appreciation, plaques, personalized t-shirts, mugs, etc., gifts and gift certificates. Committees can be designed to fit individual talents like gardening, accounting and entertaining. It is also a great entree to a board position once comfort level increases. The Homeowner Association Manager Addressing Construction Defects in Homeowner Associations Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a property management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly email newsletter for community association boards, developers and property managers.