Tips for Organizing a Volunteer Project
Do your research. Understand the nonprofit’s needs and how you can add value. Also consider how the volunteer experience can contribute to your goals.
Allow plenty of lead time. The agency will need time to identify a meaningful project and organize their staff. A minimum of one month is usually best.
Set realistic expectations about volunteers. Take into consideration the culture of your company, etc. so that you can provide the number of volunteers to which you commit.
Less is sometimes more. Don’t assume that a small group of volunteers will not be effective. Most agencies can handle a maximum of 20 volunteers per site. Some can only accommodate 5 volunteers, and a few can handle between 50-100 volunteers in one location.
Establish continuous lines of communication. Communicate early and often, especially for a big project.
Contribute supplies and equipment if you can. Agencies find it difficult to organize a volunteer project if there is little or no money for supplies. Check out our Volunteer+Plus Projects that require contributions of equipment, supplies, food or more.
Think about the strengths and resources you can share. Consider specific employee skills, pro bono services, meeting space, in-kind donations of computers or other useful items.
Consult your agency partners first. Check with them first when choosing dates for your volunteer activities.
Get help. The website at: search.volunteerhawaii.org can connect you with many agencies in need of volunteers.
Be flexible and open to ideas. Being willing to share your own ideas.
Information provided courtesy of United Way Massachusetts Bay