However, not all volunteer applicants are capable of or willing to provide direct services. Using these volunteers to provide administrative support to the program will provide them with an opportunity to be involved with the program. Volunteers can provide administrative support to programs by organizing mailing lists and mailings writing a program newsletter serving as a receptionist recruiting additional volunteers providing back-up clerical support organizing or sponsoring special events for the children and families using the program Volunteers as Partners in Building a Funding Base Building a solid funding base is a constant activity of both respite care and crisis nursery programs. Volunteers are invaluable contributors to this process, particularly volunteers who have access to individuals who may be generous donors. Volunteers can organize special events assist in capital campaigns solicit supplies and dollars from businesses and organizations Volunteer Retention One of the most common problems programs need to address is the turnover rate of volunteers.
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.