The New Volunteer Manager’s Toolkit

Saying thanks
How a volunteer wants to be recognized is unique to each volunteer so:

• Ask how they liked to be recognized. Send a survey or questionnaire. What do they like to do, eat, drink, etc.?
• Recognize professional work in meaningful ways — credit, public acknowledgment, etc.
• Don’t underestimate heartfelt, handwritten notes. Best if written personally by a client or staff member.

Evaluating your program
Which program components are you currently using? Which should you be using? Are you thinking about risk and risk management? Evaluate your retention strategies, and ask how your volunteers want to be thanked.