Most programs ask for a minimum commitment of one year from volunteers. Whether or not volunteers stay longer than the initial commitment oftentimes depends upon how they feel about the volunteer experience, including their impressions of how the program values them and their work. Volunteers give of their time and energy. Volunteers want to feel appreciated for both their donation of time and the skills they bring to the agency. Providing ongoing supervision of volunteers and volunteer recognition events will help retain volunteers.
Ongoing supervision is critical to preventing burnout.
It is the supervisor who will work with the volunteer to identify the personal goals of the volunteer, the skills the volunteer wants to develop, and the skills the volunteer brings to the program. It is through supportive supervision combined with the experience of making a difference in someone's life, that will produce commitment by the volunteer to the program. Volunteers who have been serving the organization in one capacity for a period of time may be more vulnerable to burnout, especially if they are providing direct service work. The supervisor may talk with such volunteers about moving to another role. Using flexibility and sensitivity in dealing with the volunteer staff will allow people to move from one role to another and remain with the organization for longer periods of time.